Nitrates are still up..what can I do?

[reef_addict]

It looks like my tank has cycled. Its been almost 4 weeks and everthing has peaked and dropped off except the nitrates. They are staying around 15 ppm. The Nitrates did go over 160 ppm and dropped down. I've read that this could be an issue with the fact I'm not running any fitration. Should I wait a little longer and see if they drop off? Is this acceptable? I have a problem with the stand I'm using. It won't allow me to add a filter becuase of the sides on it. But, if it comes down to it I can try and work something out if this is the fix. I maybe able to get a HOB on the side of the tank but, It would be a real small one. I don't know if tank would benefit from a small Aquaclear like that. IF I'm wrong
let me know. I'm happer without the filter but, I want to do the best for the tank.

 

[AlexfromSATX]

If everything is at zero and your nitrates are the only thing up, I woudl say go ahead and do a waterchange, and then start the weekly changes. The Waterchange will get the Nitrates down more.

 

[reefman23]

Like Alex said, go ahead and do like a 50% water change, then weekly 30% water changes or so. Do you have a pic of your setup so that I can see what you are talkin about with the filter problem?

Jesse

 

[Jennie]

I'll agree with the guys that it is probably time for your fist water change, then to start the weekly changes. That is a sure fire way to reduce the nitrates, another way is to add a fuge and let the plant life feed off of them(to a degree).

 

[reef_addict]

Well here a few shots of the tank right now....as you can see there isn't much room for anything around the tank....to the back there is 2 inches between the tank and stand then there is around 3 1/2 inches on the sides...

 

[skipm]

Weekly partial water changes are the key to keeping your nitrate levels down, it may take a couple of water changes before you see a significant drop.

 

[amf82380]

as everyone said water changes are going to be your biggest tool in keeping levels down but if your like me and do the water changes with no aval then I start using kent nitrate sponge you put it in a nylon filter media bag (it looks almost like cat liter) and you place it in the media chamber of your HOB filter and it will gradually bring the level down mine ran right around where yours are at 15 ppm no matter what I did then I tried this stuff now when I test the level is at 0 ppm hope this helps.

 

[TimSchmidt]

This is a perfect excuse for a new stand :???:

 

[reef_addict]

Quote "This is a perfect excuse for a new stand"

I knew someone would say that!

Anyone know of someone that is making an overflow that I could use on a 10gal? I'm thinking I could drill some holes in the back and run lines into a sump(refugium)

 

[reefman23]

These 10 gallons are sorta tough to drill, at least that is what I have heard. Most people that i know of that want a drilled 10 gallon tank will make one out of 1/4" glass for less than $20... all it takes is a glass shop and some 100% silicone.

I agree with a new stand though... you would GREATLY benefit from some sort of filtration. That current stand isn't "fishtank-friendly"!

Jesse

 

[reef_addict]

I hate it when you guys are right....Let me see what I can do. Even if I cut the current stand what would I do for a overflow or could I mod an AC500 for filtration?

 

[TimSchmidt]

I have drilled an old AGA 10 gallon with no problems (dremel with diamond tip glass cutting bits), just go slow, use cool water running over the glass constantly, and keep about 2 inches away from the edges of the glass (for integrities sake). Oh yeah wear eye protection. Down side, you'll have to empty the tank.

 

[reef_addict]

I did it! I was able to pull the back off my stand which freed the whole back of my tank up for whatever I need! I'm looking into a CPR HOB Refuguim. Here's a shot with the back off....

 

[reefman23]

I did it! I was able to pull the back off my stand which freed the whole back of my tank up for whatever I need! I'm looking into a CPR HOB Refuguim. Here's a shot with the back off....

MUCH BETTER!! Is that MH pendant? How many watts?

Jesse

 

[reef_addict]

Yes it is a MH. Its 20k 175 watts. I may have to play with how high its off the water but, so far the temp hasn't been an issue.

 

[TimSchmidt]

just make sure the furniture doesn't wobble now the back is off. Might be a good Idea to screw in a 2x4 or something alont the back for support.

 

[reef_addict]

It was a stand made to hold a 1940 blaupunkt radio. It was built to last! I was really worried about it getting weak after pulling the back off but, it didn't have any effect on it. everything is dovetailed joints that are glue and nailed together. Real old school work. I also pulled the back off so once I'm ready I can move everything in the 10 gal to my 40 gal and I can put it back on. BTW, I still have the radio and it works great.

 

[TimSchmidt]

Awesome! Could you PM me a pic of the radio? I have an odd fascination with old radios.

 

[reef_addict]

Let me get a few shots of it and I send them. It will get stations from around the world on it too. It's really nice.

 

[riftlaker]

i would go with the AC500 fuge very easy to do and much cheaper. and speaking from experience here lol never put the electrical conections where water can easily run of or drip into them like you have. good luck have fun!