dechlorinator/treating water - your opinions, please

[rmalford]

I'm looking for your opinion on the best water treatment out there for fresh. Also, bear in mind that I'm looking for opinions on easy and quick ways that you fill your large tanks up with this water after being treated. Does it work instantly? Thanks in advance for your feedback.

[eklikewhoa]

Seachem Prime or Amquel+Plus(what I use religously) will work, it will bind harmful chemicals/metals till they are dissolved so it doesn't effect the fish.

The absolute best option is to invest in a large carbon bottle if you will do multiple/large tanks. never hurts to double up on the carbon bottle by using the above chemicals along with it.

[SunnyHouTX]

Robert, there's also a concentrated version of Seachem Prime called Seachem Safe. The dose on that is one teaspoon for 200 gallons and I just started using it since my water changes just got bigger. HAW has it for $13 for 8.8 oz.

[barrettsline]

+1 on prime and safe. I use prime. Haven't used safe but I have heard nothing bad thus far.


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I am here: http://maps.google.com/maps?ll=29.253710,-95.211003

[sountfc]

I have a 135G and a 125G. I routinely drain 50-70%, then add Prime in half capful increments as I refill. I've never had a single problem in 20 years using this method.

[rmalford]

I have a 135G and a 125G. I routinely drain 50-70%, then add Prime in half capful increments as I refill. I've never had a single problem in 20 years using this method.

First of all, you're making me feel really young at the moment. Thanks! Secondly, are you saying you fill straight from tap and add Prime as you are doing so? If so, I have been scared to do this. Filters are off I presume?

[barrettsline]

are you saying you fill straight from tap and add Prime as you are doing so? If so, I have been scared to do this. Filters are off I presume?

I do this with canisters off until they get to a level that I can turn them on with out causing allot of splashing at the top of the water.

[rmalford]

I do this with canisters off until they get to a level that I can turn them on with out causing allot of splashing at the top of the water.

Thanks, but the primary reason I asked was because tap water will destory beneficial bacteria colonies, right? And, I'm assuming the correct amount of Prime is added directly to the tank first and then you are adding tap water directly from a hose?

[barrettsline]

Thanks, but the primary reason I asked was because tap water will destory beneficial bacteria colonies, right? And, I'm assuming the correct amount of Prime is added directly to the tank first and then you are adding tap water directly from a hose?

It will kill some yes, but not enough to hurt as long as the proper dosage is used. I add my prime while I'm filling. Never had an issue, even back when I was using aqua safe 18-20 years ago.


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I am here: http://maps.google.com/maps?ll=29.255935,-95.212008

[rmalford]

I figured filters would be off... but, the fish are not harmed while taking in this water straight from the tap? I know some conditioners take a small amount of time to actually work.

[barrettsline]

I haven't lost a fish in years doing it this way. just make sure you add the correct amount of prime or whatever water conditioner your using.


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I am here: http://maps.google.com/maps?ll=29.255911,-95.212131

[Complexity]

+1 to what Barrett is saying. I do basically the same thing.

1. Turn filters off
2. Drain water using python
3. Add Prime
4. Fill water using python
5. Turn filter on

I also turn my filters on as soon as the water level covers the intake tubes and the outflow won't cause too much splashing.

The only thing I do differently is that I add all the Prime I'm going to add all at once just before I begin refilling the tank; however, keep in mind that Barrett has larger tanks than I do. My largest tanks are 75g and 90g.

I have done it this way for years after being taught by others that it's safe to do it this way. Just read the instructions on how much Prime to add. It will tell you to add as much Prime for the entire tank of water even though you're only doing a partial water change. It is my understanding that the Prime acts immediately. I have never had any adverse experiences doing it this way even with shrimp and fry.

[algarciajr]

1. Turn filters off
2. Drain water using python
3. Add Prime
4. Fill water using python
5. Turn filter on

I also turn my filters on as soon as the water level covers the intake tubes and the outflow won't cause too much splashing.

The only thing I do differently is that I add all the Prime I'm going to add all at once just before I begin refilling the tank; however, keep in mind that Barrett has larger tanks than I do. My largest tanks are 75g and 90g.

I have done it this way for years after being taught by others that it's safe to do it this way. Just read the instructions on how much Prime to add. It will tell you to add as much Prime for the entire tank of water even though you're only doing a partial water change. It is my understanding that the Prime acts immediately. I have never had any adverse experiences doing it this way even with shrimp and fry.

I almost do the exact same thing except..

4. Fill water using water hose

[supadave]

+1 to what Barrett is saying. I do basically the same thing.

1. Turn filters off
2. Drain water using python
3. Add Prime
4. Fill water using python
5. Turn filter on

I also turn my filters on as soon as the water level covers the intake tubes and the outflow won't cause too much splashing.

The only thing I do differently is that I add all the Prime I'm going to add all at once just before I begin refilling the tank; however, keep in mind that Barrett has larger tanks than I do. My largest tanks are 75g and 90g.

I have done it this way for years after being taught by others that it's safe to do it this way. Just read the instructions on how much Prime to add. It will tell you to add as much Prime for the entire tank of water even though you're only doing a partial water change. It is my understanding that the Prime acts immediately. I have never had any adverse experiences doing it this way even with shrimp and fry.

+2

I do the exact same thing and I change 80% to 90% of the water at a time . I've been doing this since 2007 without a single issue . Prime is the best....Hands Down !!!

[eklikewhoa]

+3

But I use amquel, add all before refilling and if in doubt, double dose.

Use a carbon bottle and I've done 100% wc