Phosphates in Tap Water

[jshultis]

I've been having issues lately with green water and decided to check my tap water. Looks like my tap water is at about 3 - 5 ppm phosphates. Is there a way either by filtration or treatment that will remove these prior to water change? My full plan to alleviate the green water is as follows;

-- decrease phosphates
-- water changes (this is the conflict)
-- add plants
-- vacuum fish/tank waste
-- decrease light time
-- add CO2 to tank


Am I missing anything?

Thanks for the help,
Jesse

 

[EcoPit]

An RO unit would remove them.

 

[SnowHeart]

Anything short of plunking down a couple hundred dollars?

I've got phosphate problems with tap water, too, but thus far the addition of some filter media has been handling my 30% twice-weekly water changes quite well, but I'm not sure what the exact phosphate count is, so it's hard to compare with the original poster's situation.

 

[jshultis]

Thanks. I placed two Phos-Zorb packs in my filter to help, but thought there would have been an easy way eliminate them prior to introduction to the tank. Interestingly enough, I tested my Poland Spring water from the dispenser and the phosphates were lower, but not 0. My fish almost received a "bottled water" water change. They're getting high class

 

[EcoPit]

I think there are pads you can buy that go in your filter and absorb phosphates. I am not sure how effective they are.

Some LFSs will sell RO water fairly cheaply. If you have a small tank that would be a reasonable option as well.

 

[RTR]

My office tank operated for years with 3ppm phosphate in the tap water, but it was heavily planted and fairly bright light. All the other nurtients were supplemented but phosphate. No problems.

If you are running unplanted and have good lighting, PhosGuard or comparable may be your easiest solution.

 

[OrionGirl]

I wouldn't decrease the lighting OR add CO2 until the plants have had some time to establish themselves and start growing well.