Problem with cycle...

[baeya]

I have a question about my tanks cycle.
65g standard aquarium
32 lbs. dry rock
40 lbs. live sand

Started the first week of October.
Used fish food to cycle.

I followed the cycle, Ammonia went up, came down as Nitrites went up, came down as Nitrates went up.

I was at the point of Nitrites at .25 and Nitrates at 20 and I did a 15g water change. Two days later I did another 15g water change, this time wiping down the front and two sides with an algae magnet. I also added 4 trochus snails and 2 red reef hermit crabs.
My Ammonia is now .25, Nitrites 0 and Nitrates 0.

Is something wrong? Did my wiping down the front and sides cause an Ammonia spike? Where did my Nitrates go??

 

[little_fish]

Check your reading against another kit, im going to guess you used an API kit and they are notorious for giving a low reading of ammonia when there is none.

 

[baeya]

Yes, you're right. LOL!
I do remember reading that somewhere now that you mentioned it.
Phew! I will pick up another brand tomorrow.
Thank you so much. :)

 

[Kelz88]

Also make sure you dont use windex, and if you do be very careful with it(spray the cloth not the glass) . Its basically pretty blue ammonia.

That is if you dont have a screwy test :)

 

[baeya]

Also make sure you dont use windex, and if you do be very careful with it(spray the cloth not the glass) . Its basically pretty blue ammonia.

That is if you dont have a screwy test :)

No windex here!! Don't do windows or dishes or anyone elses laundry.....you get the idea! LOL!
I just must have had a brain fart......the damn test really never did go to zero. Must be the brain is starting to go at 53....geesh!

I do have another question, though....
When I make my RO/DI water.....I've been putting in a 32 gallon Brute barrel. Heating and aerating it until it gets to temperature, then adding salt and more air for 24 hours before use. My question is; do I keep the air on until I use the water or turn it off and just leave heat on??

 

[Kelz88]

You keep it moving, so it doesnt go stagnant

 

[baeya]

Okay, thanks. Thats what I've been doing but, I read something that made me think twice.