New Tank, Advice Needed....

[This Old Spouse]

I think nearly all of us have discovered at some point that it's just not a good idea to listen to the advice of an LFS employee. Frankly, I've never, in ANY industry, seen worthless advice given so freely on a regular basis as at an LFS. I don't know how any of them stay in business, or how any of US have managed to keep our fish alive for more than a week when we've started out with bogus advice.

I'm just happy I found this forum. Really. For all the smart alecks and goofballs on here, I've learned more in the time I've been a member than anywhere I can think of. And I belong to other forums as well, but the advice on the others is not as good, nor is it timely. I've found that on this forum you can expect answers nearly immediately. Our concern is the welfare of your fish, not trying to make a buck, so you know the health of your tank and fish is our only priority.

Enough gushing.

I do think that your number 1 purchase should be a test kit, API Master Freshwater Test Kit, or Nutrafin or Salifert. All will give you accurate enough results at home, so you never have to worry about transportation to your LFS to get your water tested. And another thing, if you ever have the LFS test your water, get the NUMBERS of the test results, not just a "oh, it's fine" from the staffer.

Sorry to rant! We're really just trying to help.

 

[an_iced_heart]

I appreciate all help and advice, i am still a newbie, but i love my fish.. had to wait till we were settled in a house before i could start my tanks, and used to dream about fish before then.. and still do.. its usually time for a new fish if i start having fishy dreams lol Got given a fish tank for free, was going to sell it or swap for more malawi but hubby said.. noooo.. keep it.. its required re-sealing, painting, varnashing, new heaters, and will still need loads more new bits.. got lovely black sand and new rocks.. so my free tank has cost a small fortune already lol just need the fish to be ok now..

Will keep up with the water changes..

The 200l was two thirds filled with tap water, and let to sit.. a hour or two after the filter and the top up of water went in, i put in stress coat.. hoping that de-chlorinated it for me.. S

 

[the_lock_man]

all the smart alecks and goofballs on here, [/img]

Steady on......