high nitrates

[Tigerfish908]

Absolutely, as stated above, you should increase your WC schedule. The only way to effectively remove nitrates is through water changes. You may want to do a 75% WC to get on top of the situation.

I agree. Start with a large wc then go down to 50% then 25% weekly.

 

[Tigerfish908]

i just tested my tap water for nitrates and there is none in my tap water so im starting to think it is a build up underneath my indergravel filter that is causing high nitrates. If i drain my tank and clean it all out do u think it is even worth putting the undergravel filter back in?

This is true. Undergravel filters collect a lot of crap under them.

I would def remove the undergravel filter, and add a fluval or eheim canister.

Undergravel filters suck..Thats why they are included with most tank starter kits.
Remove it asap!!!

 

[SyncereOne]

What type of water conditioner are you using when doing water changes?