how to lower nitrates

[skargo2009]

So my nitrates in my 55 gallon have sky rocketed to 100mg/l. Think that's cause I hadn't cleaned my filter for several years and I hadn't changed the sponges in it. I've since bought some new sponges (I think they are supposed to be replaced every 3-6 months).

I've been doing a 50% water change a few times a week. And I've added some live plants but my nitrates won't go down. I can only use floating plants since my fish I have will uproot ant plants I put in the gravel

 

[jock7575]

I'd say that would be your issue. I clean my filter and rinse pads in tank water once every two months. I couldn't imagine not cleaning it for several years. More frequent water changes and filter maintenance will soon fix your nitrate issues

 

[skargo2009]

I'd say that would be your issue. I clean my filter and rinse pads in tank water once every two months. I couldn't imagine not cleaning it for several years. More frequent water changes and filter maintenance will soon fix your nitrate issues

I can be a bit lazy when it comes to cleaning my filter.

 

[Stacey W.]

Just remember if your perameters go out of wack due to negligence. Then you then will create more work in the end to get them back on track. I think most of us have been there. I had a lfs tell me I only need to change my water once a month years ago. Now for several years I've done my own research.

Sent from my SGH-M919 using Aquarium Advice mobile app