How long before I get nitrites

[hoppershaun]

I've been cycling for 3 weeks and still have not got any nitrite readings. Is this amount if time normal? I'm keeping my ammonia at about 0.25ppm by doing frequent pwc because I have fish in the tank. Also I've put some gravel in off a friend to try and speed up the process, but I thought I would have some nitrite readings by now. Any thoughts?

 

[rich311k]

I am surprised you haven't seen any yet. You should soon. Have you tested for nitrates? Test your tap as well. What is your ammonia reading today?

 

[hoppershaun]

Ammonia was 0.5ppm but did a pwc and it's now 0.25ppm. My nitrates are 5ppm, the tap water is the same.

 

[ksfishguy]

My recent cycle took about the same, you are close, good luck!