View Full Version : Using Tap Water
Opicana
10-28-2006, 9:32 AM
Hi,
Just moved 1/2 way across the country and I would like to setup a tank. I do not know much about the tap water...other than it is harder than where I used to live (but where I used to live had naturally very, very soft water...so I could just tell). Is there anything I should find out about my tap water before I start a tank with it? Should I test the hardness? Test for chloramines?
Thanks
Kara
Rbishop
10-28-2006, 9:38 AM
Run the normal ammonia, nitrite, nitrate and ph tests on a sample. For the pH, let some water sit out overnight in a shallow dish then test. Also do a GH and KH, for hardness, just to see what buffering capacity you have available.
Contact the local public works that supplies the water to see if they are using chlorine or chloramine as the additive. so you can determine the correct water conditioner. Or just use one that handles both to begin with.
SirWired
10-28-2006, 9:24 PM
Hi,
Just moved 1/2 way across the country and I would like to setup a tank. I do not know much about the tap water...other than it is harder than where I used to live (but where I used to live had naturally very, very soft water...so I could just tell). Is there anything I should find out about my tap water before I start a tank with it? Should I test the hardness? Test for chloramines?
Thanks
Kara
Your local utility should have a "Water Quality Report". Call them and ask for a copy. It may even be posted on their website, if they have one.
SirWired
Opicana
10-29-2006, 11:30 AM
Your local utility should have a "Water Quality Report". Call them and ask for a copy. It may even be posted on their website, if they have one.
SirWired
Thanks! I'll do that.