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View Full Version : NEED to get phosphates down NOW!!

PUNISHER VETTE
07-21-2008, 03:05 AM
I'm sick of my algae and it just has to be a high phosphate level cause. Ever since i used some Seachem Neutral pH not knowing it was a phosphate based product i've had super high phosphates.

I tested my tap and didn't see any but even after probably 20 water changes it's still at super high levels. I've also just started using store DI water hoping that might help. Only problem is i have only 3 five gallon jugs so out of my 40-50gallon water changes it probably isn't helping much.

I bought some phosphate packets that i put in my canister but i don't think they're working as i haven't noticed a change yet.

I heard silicates might cause this too but the phosphate removers should help with that too right?
smaug
07-21-2008, 03:07 AM
Use pura phoslock in a media bag in your canister filter.If the phosphates are just from the buffer they will go away in a week.
PUNISHER VETTE
07-21-2008, 03:07 AM
Also i bought some peat granules for my canister that were to help lower the KH which would help lower my pH as well but i think they are wearing off. How long would something like that last for?

What kind of peat can i use that is cheap(not made for canisters and price jacked through the roof)?
PUNISHER VETTE
07-21-2008, 03:08 AM
Use pura phoslock in a media bag in your canister filter.If the phosphates are just from the buffer they will go away in a week.


what else could cause high phosphates other then my tap water?

I don't use carbon at all which i heard might have phosphates, no rocks containing anything...
ILuvMyGoldBarb
07-21-2008, 03:10 AM
What ferts are you dosing?
smaug
07-21-2008, 03:13 AM
Phos is sometimes added at the water treatment plant as a preventative for rusty pipes.I am unsure of how widespread this practice is.Have you tested your tapwater for phos?If you dont have it in your tapwater then there is nothing else that would be causing a high phos reading other then the buffer.
PUNISHER VETTE
07-21-2008, 03:16 AM
What ferts are you dosing?

I was(haven't dosed in 2 weeks) dosing potassium sulfate, potassium nitrate, plantex CSM+B, seachem flourish and iron.

Also i've got mostly brown diatoms, some hair algae, the start of brush algae, and sometimes the green dots on my glass.

I'm hoping it's all been due to having high nitrates and phosphates.