Nitrates down through water changes

[dewboy1127]

Could or should i put twp tsp in my tank prior to another water change since my wc water is not fully mixed yet to get this going?...thinking ill do 30-40 gal wc when its mixed and either start or cont vin dosing until back down and monitor from there....is this the best plan of action?

 

[Randy Holmes-Farley Verified Community Expert]

twp?

 

[Drauka99]

Dollars to doughnuts he meant "two"

 

[dewboy1127]

Yes two.... thank you @Drauka99

 

[Randy Holmes-Farley Verified Community Expert]

Yes two.... thank you @Drauka99

Organic carbon dosing is a fine long range plan. It is not an immediate solution. It often takes weeks to see much impact.

 

[dewboy1127]

Ok so im taking it shy of changing a LOT of water im screwed as far as getting them lowered quickly. Other than that there is no way of getting nitrates out of water in a 24-48 hr period?

 

[Randy Holmes-Farley Verified Community Expert]

Ok so im taking it shy of changing a LOT of water im screwed as far as getting them lowered quickly. Other than that there is no way of getting nitrates out of water in a 24-48 hr period?

No, I do not believe there is any alternative to water changes if you want a big drop in 24 h. Adding a huge amount of organic will do it(provided there is sufficient phosphate), but would likely lead to an unsightly bacterial bloom.

 

[bobman]

I have tried to large amount to organic carbon and my nitrates did not drop as much as I hoped but the bacterial bloom that followed.......... well lets just say I will never try that again

 

[foxfacelo]

What would be the effect of adding "bacteria in a bottle"?