Ammonia reading in new water

[hksnake]

Hi, I am getting a total ammonia reading of 0.25-0.5 from my AP or SC kit. The SC shows free ammonia of 0.01-0.05. I am getting this reading from brand new RO/Distilled water after I add the salt mix. I was using Coralife but switched to Instant O, same result. The salt is mixing for 4 days, temp 76-78 w/airstones. I have been doing 20gl/1 wk because I thought I had an ammonia problem. The readings are the same in the tank. 90gl FOwLR 14 weeks old, nitrite 0.0 nitrate 0 ph 8.3 sal 10.023 temp 78-80 p04 0.25. I only have 4 small fish, 2 stars, crabs, snails & feed sparingly.

 

[tbonem91]

what are you using as a declor? I hear Cloramines will show up as positive Ammonia on test kits if not broken down.

 

[roka64]

after I add the salt mix.

What about before you add the salt?

I hear Cloramines will show up as positive Ammonia on test kits if not broken down.

I have heard city water adds stuff that can give a "false" reading for ammonia...

 

[hksnake]

I am using RO+Distilled water. there is no chlorine or chloramine