Lower my nitrates?

[rickyst1]

I use the Berlin Method on my 2-1/2 year FOWLER setup (65gal with proflex sump). My nitrates have always been high (40-50ppm)but lately I have been trying to lower with little result. In the last 2 weeks I have performed two twenty Gallon changes and a thirty Gallon change last night.They are now about 30-40ppm. My SWC protein skimmer was not working well for about 6 month's and I finally found that the air intake was clogged, fixed that about a month ago. My tank or sump area is all in good working order now. I have noticed greater growth on my rocks and have lost a few of my favorites...yellow eye Kole, Fat Lawnmower Blenny and a large Coral Banded Shrimp. 6 fish present in tank now. Any suggestions would be appreciated.
Thanks,
Rick
Gloucester , Va.

 

[lstimpy]

http://www.advancedaquarist.com/2011/3/aafeature
http://reefkeeping.com/issues/2008-08/nftt/
Check out these articles on carbon dosing.

 

[Gregcoyote]

Before dosing (which will work, but can be a bit tricky) I would make sure that skimmer is working, water exchanges were happening and consider adding some algae, like chaeto to the sump with a inexpensive clip on light. Algae is the best, safest and easiest way to export nitrogen by products.

 

[melosu58]

Cut back on feedings and check your PWC water to make sure you are not adding them in when you do a PWC.

 

[rickyst1]

new to adding anything to sump. How so? The first bay is the socks, second is the protein skimmer, sponge, then the last bay is the return pump....Where do I put this "chaeto"?

 

[Gregcoyote]

You might be able to add it in the return pump section. You could keep it corralled using some egg crate material.

 

[phillytec]

Put some aqua4bella in
Tank will get cloudy but it will clear

 

[lstimpy]

Will the chaeto fit by the sock?

 

[phillytec]

You could also use a nitrate reduction pad, and or marine land has a nitrate reduction additive as well. I also have the pro flex sump.