New Tank

[digitallinh]

For water changes, I would head towards a schedule that you can end up keeping consistent. Stability is probably one of the most important parameters. Im probably kicking a dead horse here but it is strongly advised you get at least a nitrATE test kit. This is probably the main indicator for water quality.

For planted tanks, I aim for 10 ppm after WC, and upwards of 20 before. How you feed, how you stock, your filter, and your plants (if you have them) uptake ability are all variables. So everyone is different, and there's no magic answer.

The only magic answer for a non planted tank is the lower the better, but you need a test kit to find that out. If I had a non-planted tank, I would probably aim for 10-20 ppms as well, someone with experience can probably chime in for that, but a simple google search probably yields all of the answers.

There are many ways to keep aquariums, but IMO there's one common denominator and that's consistency/stability.

[eklikewhoa]

he has used that to much that its not even funny nor an insult.

They still find it amusing.

whether it's cause I said it or if it's just you.... either way. LoL

[Chris.d514]

I defiantly plan to get a test kit ASAP just waiting for funds to become available.

[eklikewhoa]

the master kit is pretty affordable if ordered online.

[LooksLater]

For water changes, I would head towards a schedule that you can end up keeping consistent. Stability is probably one of the most important parameters. Im probably kicking a dead horse here but it is strongly advised you get at least a nitrATE test kit. This is probably the main indicator for water quality.

For planted tanks, I aim for 10 ppm after WC, and upwards of 20 before. How you feed, how you stock, your filter, and your plants (if you have them) uptake ability are all variables. So everyone is different, and there's no magic answer.

The only magic answer for a non planted tank is the lower the better, but you need a test kit to find that out. If I had a non-planted tank, I would probably aim for 10-20 ppms as well, someone with experience can probably chime in for that, but a simple google search probably yields all of the answers.

There are many ways to keep aquariums, but IMO there's one common denominator and that's consistency/stability.

Absolutely +1. The lower your nitrates the better, and consistency is key to a happy tank. Personally (for my non-puffer tanks), I pick a day and water change every week on that day. Don't worry, you're not going to loose good bacteria through water, it colonizes on surfaces and will continue to grow in the filter, substrate, etc. W/C is just for fishes' and plants' health. What kind of de-chlorinator are you using?

[LooksLater]

the master kit is pretty affordable if ordered online.

I think I saw the API master kit for less than $30 on amazon not too long ago? I forget. Not bad.

[Chris.d514]

Amquel plus by kordon

[LooksLater]

Cool. That's good stuff from what I hear.

[eklikewhoa]

Amquel+plus is the bizzness!!!!

I've used Kordon's Amquel and NovaAqua for almost 20yrs now and a solid follower!

[R_sustaita]

I think I saw the API master kit for less than $30 on amazon not too long ago? I forget. Not bad.

They are 16 at amazon.

[eklikewhoa]

Most of the ones I have ran across were about $20-30 if you have seen them for much less do post up a link which would probably help push some of the newer members into purchasing since cost is of concern these days.

[R_sustaita]

http://www.amazon.com/API-FRESHWATER-MASTER-TEST-KIT/dp/B000255NCI/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1332285735&sr=8-1

sorry price went up. its $19.97 with free shipping if you are a member.

[Chris.d514]

Got it in my cart. Lookslater recommended that I look at adding a sponge filter and power head do anyone have a recommendation on a brand or model for a 14 gallon tank or perhaps a spare somewhere.

[R_sustaita]

maybe an mj1200 i think thats the model. ek could clearify that.

[R_sustaita]

here is one http://www.houstonfishbox.com/vforum...-refractometrr