Ammonia in my tap water ???

[aharcara]

I got my used 20-gallon tank yesterday. I filled the tank and got the filter running. I've rinsed the glass rocks - not a fun task Then, I tested the water, so that I could have a baseline before adding any ammonia source. I got the following:
pH 7.4
Ammonia 0.5 (my husband thought it looked closer to 1.0)
NitrItes 0.0
NitrAtes 0.0

Then, I tested the water straight from the tap for Ammonia and got the same result. Should I be concerned that my Ammonia is not 0?

 

[neilanh]

It's most likely the chloramines in the water reacting with the ammonia kit. What type of dechlorinator are you using? Try getting some tap water, dechlor it, and then test.

 

[aharcara]

I'm using the stuff the previous owner gave me: NovAqua Conditioner and Fish Protector.

 

[neilanh]

I'd recommend getting some Prime. It's widely the most popular and believed to be the best dechlorinator.

 

[Fishyfanatic]

I agree, get a bottle of Prime. Ammonia in the tap is an indicator of your water source using Chloramines instead of Chlorine.

 

[mom2reds]

I have the samething in my water and I use Prime with great results.

 

[aharcara]

Thanks! I'll get some soon.

Can I add it to my water as is? I've already put the other stuff in it. Or, do I have to empty the tank and add new water with the Prime?

 

[Purrbox]

Just perform your next water change as normal using the new dechlorinator (Prime) instead. You don't need to do anything special to switch dechlorinators.

 

[aharcara]

I'm still getting the same ammonia reading on my tap water after using the Prime.

 

[rich311k]

It is changed to a safer ion of ammonia. It is not toxic to the fish and your bacterial filtration will quickly remove it. You could add a double dose of the Prime to be on the safe side.