Water Conditioner, Ammonia And Testing

[spider6]

I am confused about testing my water for ammonia. I use Prime as a water conditioner and I just read that it will give a false reading for ammonia. So how do you know if the ammonia level is at zero or if it is too high? I am a newbie and any info you can give me will be much appreciated. I just want to do right for my little girl.

 

[fluttermoth]

If your using the API test, you need to read the result right away and not wait for the time it says on the instructions

If you're using another test then we'd need to know the make before we can answer one way or the other!

 

[spider6]

OK, thanks for your help. I do use the API liquid tests so I will stop letting them sit for the 5 mins. My betta and I thank you!!

 

[Fish bubbles]

Hi
Just seen this post and was curious to know why you shouldn't follow the 5 min instruction and do it immediately?

Thanks.

 

[buonnatale2u]

I was just about to post this same question.

I went and got PRIME for the first time because I saw it in good use on this forum. I have ammonia readings of about .50 PPM after using the PRIME with water changes, but still reading 0 Nitrites, and 5-10 PPM on Nitrates. Does PRIME really turn the Ammonia from bad to good? WOndering if I still have to move out as many fish as I have already.

 

[Bugdozer]

Hi
Just seen this post and was curious to know why you shouldn't follow the 5 min instruction and do it immediately?

Thanks.

Yes, I'd like to see some data on this too, please.

 

[Essjay]

Does PRIME really turn the Ammonia from bad to good? WOndering if I still have to move out as many fish as I have already.

The effect of the detoxification of ammonia only lasts about 24 hours. That's why those dechlorinators which detoxify ammonia are good for fish-in cycles, because you are changing the water every day so new 'detoxifier' is added every day. Prime is recommended as it is very concentrated, and those water changes during fish-in cycling use a lot of dechorinator.