How often do you test your water???

[jaywings19]

Hi Jaywings19

Thanks for the link. This does look like a handy thing, and the price is good, too.

I see by your signature that little Pinky didn't make it. I'm so sorry!

No problem for the link. I saw it in Petco a few weeks ago. I was skeptical at first, but I got it any since it was cheap. Works pretty well... I suppose because mine always reads the "safe" color, which is consistent with my test tube kit.

Yes, Pinky didn't make it. He was twitching the night I discovered the tail. Then, found him floating the next morning. I've since added a Julii and Panda to keep my two micro Albinos company. The tank seems much happier without the orange menace.

 

[millym]

that ammonia monitor thingy sounds like a good idea!!! does anyone know of a reliable uk supplier
thanks

 

[Moe]

I have that ammonia thing also. It really does work. I use it in the tank when I do fishless cycles. It turns blue, the danger color the second I add the ammonia. It gradually goes back to yellow as the bacteria do their job. It's a good little thingy.

 

[yhbae]

I only do it about once a month but each time, the readings stay rock solid.

Well, for the younger tanks, that's another story but other than pH, I wouldn't be concerned too much about it on mature tanks. The tank with plants even keep nitrate at very close to zero level all the time - I can hardly detect it using the testing kit, but I still do weekly 20% water change.

 

[ketyana]

I tested during the cycling and then again last month after moving house because I lost alot of fish (I think due to remaining paint fumes in the case of the betta I was so careful to move them once everything was finished) not wanting to lose the bacteria that was set up I added a shark and the 6 pentazonas within a week after.

Both when I first had the tank up and running properly and now I have added more fish I have tested the water for nitrate to find the length of time it takes to increase and based the frequency of water changes on that, once the norm has been established I have just changed and not continued to test other than at random times to just be sure