High Phosphate

[chrisski]

i have been suffering from green algae and have tried water changes every week adn every days and not having lights off! shop sid it may be due to high phosphates and they did a water test to see and it was high!
whats the best way to drop phosphate levels? they suggested some expensive stuff!

 

[jspence1]

i have been suffering from green algae and have tried water changes every week adn every days and not having lights off! shop sid it may be due to high phosphates and they did a water test to see and it was high!
whats the best way to drop phosphate levels? they suggested some expensive stuff!

Just a quick question...What do they consider high? If you check your city's web site they will give you the exact amount of phosphate in your water. That will give you some indication if water changes will help reduce your levels. Some flake foods have high phosphate levels as well that could be a problem too.

What are your nitrate levels? I recently had a green algae out break and it wasn't that my phosphate levels were high but my nitrate levels were low. Here is an article on balancing your phosphate and nitrate to prevent algae http/www.xs4all.nl/~buddendo/aquarium/redfield_eng.htm.

I have also heard....**Disclaimer I don't know for myself haven't tried it or done any research into it**....That products designed to remove ammonia (ammonia chips) added to your filter will adsorb phosphates as well. I wouldn't run out and buy any but if you have any laying around it might be worth tossing it in for a try if your nitrates aren't low and your phosphates are high in your tap water.


Good luck!
John