Water parameters okay?

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Indominus94

Feeder Fish
MFK Member
Oct 23, 2018
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Okay so I just purchased the API master test kit for my tank. I currently have a 75gallon tank with 2 angelfish, 2 flying fox fish, and 3 Cory catfish
I have had this tank for 2 months now

The water parameters are as follows:
PH 7.6
Ammonia 0.50 ppm
Nitrite 0 ppm
Nitrate 20 ppm

Okay so I’m sure the presence of the ammonia isn’t okay, but not sure what to think about the Nitrates...the instructions in the test kits says anything under 40 ppm is okay and I have half of that so I believe that’s okay? But can anybody fill me in on if these readings are something I should worry about? thanks
 
What is your water change routine? How do you clean your filter? Also do you use a dechlorinator during water changes? I suggest testing your tap water? Reduce your feedings that will help also.
 
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tlindsey said:
What is your water change routine? How do you clean your filter? Also do you use a dechlorinator during water changes? I suggest testing your tap water? Reduce your feedings that will help also.
Click to expand...

My water changes are 50% every week, and I vacuum the gravel 50% every other water change.
I have been changing my water filter cartridge monthly
I only have a Hang on back Aqueon quiet flow 75. I am looking into getting a canister filter later on. and whenever I change my water I put in the “api stress coat+” which also conditions tap water and removes chlorine, chloramines and detoxifies heavy metals. My tap is putting out around 7.6. But I think I do need to cut back on the feedings the little, I’m putting a little too much food in there I think
 
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Stop changing your filter cartridge if it's not broken or falling apart. You're just throwing away your BB.

Instead, rinse it out in tank water to clean it. I also suggest ditching those cartridges altogether and stuffing your HOB with filter foam and bio media.
 
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RemainVayne said:
Stop changing your filter cartridge if it's not broken or falling apart. You're just throwing away your BB.

Instead, rinse it out in tank water to clean it. I also suggest ditching those cartridges altogether and stuffing your HOB with filter foam and bio media.
Click to expand...
I have heard of that, haven’t done that yet, but anyway do you recommend a certain brand of filter foam and bio media that works with your tanks? Just curious about it, and how often do you change yours out or do maintenance on it? I’m also thinking about picking up a canister filter this month as I get paid 3 times in November so i’ll Have a little bit of cash to purchase one hopefully lol
 
If the cartridge is one with carbon you are probably artificially maintaining parameters. Also the rating on filters is usually a bit optimistic, go with half the gallons listed as a good base. so you might also be struggling to get enough bio for your fish load
 
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I personally don't even use the cartridge that come with HOB filters I add a fluval sponge cut to fit. The cartridge is really for a mechanical purpose. The bio bacteria will grow on the walls of the filter housing..
 
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Indominus94 said:
I have heard of that, haven’t done that yet, but anyway do you recommend a certain brand of filter foam and bio media that works with your tanks? Just curious about it, and how often do you change yours out or do maintenance on it? I’m also thinking about picking up a canister filter this month as I get paid 3 times in November so i’ll Have a little bit of cash to purchase one hopefully lol
Click to expand...
This video is a little long, but will give you a great visual reference on what to do. I replaced my cartridges with foams and bio media a long time ago and all is well

 
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