Nitrite While Using Used Media ....help

[Faythee]

I set up a 10 gal. to transfer a fish to. I really need to get him transferred ASAP. I put some Biomax (ceramic noodles) from my other tank in the filter as well as a handful of gravel in the tank. I have nitrite readings of 1.0 and there isn't even any fish in there. How could this be ??? Should I remove the Biomax and replace with new ?

 

[Faythee]

I did 3 water changes yesterday and 1 this morning. I just tested again and am showing ammonia. I put an ammonia remover insert in hoping it will help. I also removed the piece of wood....just in case. This is weird. Ammonia and no fish...LOL

 

[rdd1952]

Have you tested your tap water to make sure it isn't coming from there? While it isn't common to see ammonia or nitrite in tap water, it can definitely happen.

 

[Faythee]

OH MY GOODNESS !!!

Sure enough there is ammonia in my tap water !

Can I use spring water ?

 

[rdd1952]

You could use spring water or bottled water just for this tank since it is so small and I assume temporary. You could also use Prime for your dechlor or add Ammo-Lock. Both will detoxify ammonia and make it safe until your filter can take care of it. As for the tap water, I would contact the water company just to make sure they are aware of the problem and to see when it will be remedied.

 

[Faythee]

Thanks so much rdd1952 !

Tap tested at 3.0 mg/l ammonia. I will call the water dept. tommorrow. I drink bottled water but give my dogs tap water. Should this be a concern ?

I went and bought 5 gal.'s spring water and managed to get it down to .25 ammonia. I have my 8 danios in there now. I spent from 11 am to 6 pm tonite catching fish, changing and testing water ! Will test again in the morning. I do use Prime. Thank goodness.