Lighting and Nitrite/Nitrate questions

[ozorowsky]

Hi all,

I finally got my lighting; I have two 36" units which include:

1x 250W Double Ended HQI
4x 39W T5 High Output
4x Dual Bluemoon LED

Each has separate power cord; when setting these on a timer, what order should I turn each on/off each day? What do you recommend?

Also, I did my first water test and my Salinity is right at 1.022, but my nitrate/nitrites are a little high (I forget the numbers I'm at work) but they are about the 3rd one down on the chart.

My Ammonia is right at 0, and PH is good; 20 or 22 if I remember

How do I lower these? There are no fish/snails/etc in my tank right now.

Thank you.

 

[ozorowsky]

Will putting snails or something in here help reduce nitrate/nitrite?

 

[rdnelson99]

From one newbie to another. The ultimate readings should be 8 Ph, 0 Ammonia, 0 Nitrite and as close to 0 as possible on Nitrate but not over 20. Has your tank cycled? If not or if you are unsure, there are several articles you can read that are very good.

 

[rdnelson99]

Tips and tricks for your fastest fishless cycle!

The (almost) Complete Guide and FAQ to Fishless Cycling

Cycle your salt tank

These were a huge help to me.

 

[ozorowsky]

Thanks guys; reading now

 

[ozorowsky]

How about the lighting? Which lights should I switch on/off and for how long should each light (halid/actinic/led) run for?

 

[rdnelson99]

How about the lighting? Which lights should I switch on/off and for how long should each light (halid/actinic/led) run for?

That I can't answer other than to say look through any thread that even mentions lighting. LOL I have little choice since my fixture is only a two lamp with one switch. I do know that if you keep them on for more than 12 hours a day you will get algae. I think 12 hours is even pushing it. Watch for any post by Carey. She is very knowlegeable and extreamly willing to help out. Good luck.