When I Am Suppose To Do Water Changes?

[rpgmomma8404]

[SIZE=10.5pt]Finally got both tanks up and running with fish in them. I have to thank these awesome people at this mom and pop fish store in a town next to mine that helped out so much getting these tanks going. Okay, now that everything is up and going when should I do a water change? I tested one tank today. The ammonia was 0, nitrite was 0 but the nitrate was sitting around 10-20 ppm.[/SIZE] I haven’t tested the other tank yet but plan on doing it soon. My friend said wait a week but with the nitrate’s being that high should I do it sooner? 

 

[Ninjouzata]

Most people change 25%+ once a week, but you can do more if you like. Your nitrates aren't high though I don't think.

 

[Reeferbro]

It really depends on each individual tank because each on has a different bio load. So it is best to best the one that works for you and your tank

 

[rpgmomma8404]

Alrighty! Thanks for the responds! 

 

[Essjay]

Regarding the nitrate level, most tapwater has some nitrate in it. You need to test your tapwater to see how much yours has. Your tapwater level is the lowest you'll be able to get your tank nitrate unless it is very heavily planted. A very general guideline is to do water changes as big and as often as needed to keep your tank nitrate at or below the level in your tapwater plus 20.

 

[TwoTankAmin]

In the USA most water does not have nitrate in it, And if it does the legal limit is 10 ppm.
 
Here is the best answer I can offer re water changes. I have never ever heard anybody say nor anybody write that their fish were suffering or dying because their water was too clean. I have been doing 35-50% weekly water changes on all my tanks for going on 13 years now. Fry tanks get more frequent changes.