I'd continue with what you have until you're sure the tank is fully cycled. We'll look at other grimlins if you're still losing fish after the tank is cycled.Thanks everybody.
My tank is a 10 gallon. I've read all about cycling a tank, but I guess it's time to get really scientific and chart it all out and do the right tests myself.
Regarding the heater, the new one will be more sensitive. I unplugged the other heater (no fish in there now) and the temperature did drop to 76 degrees, even though I had the gauge set at its lowest.
I WILL get the Freshwater Master test kit and ammonia and do the tests.
Question:
Should I start all over with the tank? Do a fishless cycle: Rinse all media, remove the Mopani wood, add new dechlorinated water, or just continue with what I got: do the ammonia test with the liquid tests? I'm just feeling cursed or that there's a contaminant in there.
Mark