high nitrate levels

[mtplanet]

My tank has been running for about 2 yrs. Nitrite levels are very low or near zero. Nitrate levels have gotten out of control. Been lazy and super busy and skipped water changes. The question is, I just did a huge change. 20 gal tank and estimate I did like 75-85% change. After giving it a few hours to settle down. I tested again and still feel like I am 20ppm or higher. How long would yall suggest waiting before doing another change? this time I am thinking between 25-50%. Thoughts, ideas and experience appreciated.

Bit of a background. Daughter's tank, I can't talk her into changing anything so all plastic plants. Personally this could be the ugliest tank ever. Our daughter is autistic and this is what she loves so that will not be changing. That is till she talks us into a bearded dragon later this year. I keep telling my wife NO! haha

Thanks

Mitch

 

[AJ356]

What's the nitrate levels in the fresh water going back in?

 

[Fishfunn]

Do a 50% water change with gravel vacuuming every week.

 

[plebian]

I tested again and still feel like I am 20ppm or higher.

That level is nothing to worry about. Follow the advice given by Fishfunn.

 

[Colin_T]

Wait 24 hours and do another water change. Then try to do a 50-75% water change and gravel clean the substrate once a week.
Make sure any new water is free of chlorine/ chloramine before it's added to the tank.

 

[mtplanet]

Thanks everyone. I didn't test this time. In the past when I have tested it is near zero or zero. Same source.