Nitrate Problem
- Thread starter calisucks
- Start date
I agree with most of what has been advised already...
1) Get the new NO3 test.
2) Retest tank, test water supply, report back with readings for both.
If water supply is high in NO3, you may hard pressed to rectify the situation.
IMO/IME, filtering NO3 via a planted sump/holding tank, needs a very large amount of plants to achieve a significant lowering of NO3.
Another option is a denitrification filter utilizing anerobic nitrate converting bacteria, these are custom builds, some what tricky to build, calibrate and maintain, very slow flowrates too.
3) Best way to lower NO3, water changes.
Sometimes due to type of filtration, stocking level, feeding schedule amounts and types of feed you may need to do water changes twice a week.
A reliable test kit and getting to know your tanks weekly NO3 accumulation will help you plan maintenance schedules.
4) Clean your filters at least monthly, rinse medias in either tank/dechlor'd water.
Just my $0.02, HTH.
1) Get the new NO3 test.
2) Retest tank, test water supply, report back with readings for both.
If water supply is high in NO3, you may hard pressed to rectify the situation.
IMO/IME, filtering NO3 via a planted sump/holding tank, needs a very large amount of plants to achieve a significant lowering of NO3.
Another option is a denitrification filter utilizing anerobic nitrate converting bacteria, these are custom builds, some what tricky to build, calibrate and maintain, very slow flowrates too.
3) Best way to lower NO3, water changes.
Sometimes due to type of filtration, stocking level, feeding schedule amounts and types of feed you may need to do water changes twice a week.
A reliable test kit and getting to know your tanks weekly NO3 accumulation will help you plan maintenance schedules.
4) Clean your filters at least monthly, rinse medias in either tank/dechlor'd water.
Just my $0.02, HTH.
