6 replies to this topic

[L Link]

I was wondering if anyone had any preferences recommendations about tap water conditioners (in order to neutralize chlorine, fluoride, etc.) for native tanks? Do these conditioners affect alkalinity? 

[littlen]

To each their own.  I am not brand loyal when it comes to it.  Most tap water conditioners neutralize chlorine & chloramines.  But I think it is worth noting to make sure that it does both.  I live in an area where chloramines are dosed seasonally.  If you also have chloramines then it will also be helpful to have one that will neutralize ammonia (which is released, separated, produced?) from the chloramine.  The active ingredient in all of the conditioners is sodium thiosulfate--which only neutralizes chlorine.  So why not have the added benefit of some ammonia reduction as well when you're doing a WC?  Although, we all keep pristine aquariums, so there is NEVER ammonia, right?

Prime or Safe (the powdered version), both by Seachem, API, Kordon/NovAqua.  

They should not mess with alkalinity.  If you were to notice a difference before and after your WC, then it is a result of actually changing out the old water.  But there are test kits if you'd like to perform your own simple tests to come to your own conclusions.

[Michael Wolfe]

I know nothing compared to Nick when it comes to chemistry. But I use prime and have had no ill affects and all positives.

[L Link]

Thanks so much! From what you said, I understand that most of these conditioners don't put an emphasis on fluoride neutralization. What do you know about the effects of fluoride and how it can be treated?

[littlen]

Thanks so much! From what you said, I understand that most of these conditioners don't put an emphasis on fluoride neutralization. What do you know about the effects of fluoride and how it can be treated?

Honestly, I didn't know it was a problem.....what leads you to believe it is?  

The only thing I can think is that your fish will have a beautiful smile.

[Matt DeLaVega]

Yeah, I am not a fan of having fluoride added to my drinking water. Topically applied fluoride strengthens enamel, but when ingested, it does nothing for teeth and is somewhat toxic to our bodies. That being said, I have never given any thought to how it affects fish. We filter it out of our drinking water, but I don't on fish water. I don't believe you can neutralize it, so if you are concerned, you should get a RO system. It doesn't seem to be a common concern.

[gzeiger]

Nothing but RO is going to remove fluoride. It's not harmful.