Okay so here is the back story. I setup a 20 gallon fresh about 4 months ago. The ammonia for 3 of those months has stayed at 4 or greater. I was told that the tank needed to cycle and leave it alone. Today I purchased a 36 gallon tank that I cleaned with vinegar and water. I put 10 gallons of the old water in, the gravel and decorations and the rest was new water that was treated. The I added my fish. I tested the water and again it was at 8. I was told do not change the filter until the ammonia died but the filter looked disgusting so I threw it out and I think that may have been causing the ammonia as well but im not sure. In the tank I have a betta, 1 molly, 5 guppys, and 2 tettras. WHat am I doing wrong??? I want to get more fish for the bigger tank but refuse to add fish until I know the water is stable. Please help