Can I use non-distilled water for my tank?

Question

Where I live the tapwater has waaay too many phosphates and whenever I replace water there's an algae bloom and the water turns green. My mom suggested using distilled water and I told her it wasn't safe because it has no nutrients and so she then suggested non-distilled spring water.

Is it safe to use?

Answer 1

Sure, bottled water is just fine. You could mix it with the tap water to lower the phosphates to a reasonable level and maybe save a few bucks on the bottled water.

MM

Answer 2

Distilled water is way to soft and acidic for most fish, and the lack of minerals can cause problems. Bottled water is questionable as it can vary greatly even within the same brand. Spring water can be very hard, and basic. In general rapid changes in water chemistry are bad. Be sure the pH, and KH are similar before replacing water, and don't do massive change water changes (more than 20%).

PS- Honestly the green water from the phosphates is harmless.

Answer 3

Yes, I use it for my betta. I still put in the little ph fizzy tabs when I change the water, just in case, but spring water should be just fine. Just make sure the bottle says "Natural spring", if it says "bottled at a municipal source", that is a fancy phrase for pretty much tap water. Still use a water conditioner for fish, but spring water is good!

Answer 4

It should be fine. I used to do the same thing for my fish--and I managed a pet store. Just make sure that there is no chlorine in the spring water. Also, you might check the pH of the water and make sure it is correct for your fish. I'm assuming you do partial water changes. You never want to do a total water change because you'll remove too much of the good bacteria and your fish could suffer. Algae thrives on two things: too much food and too much light. Make sure that you don't leave your tank light on for longer than 8 hours--unless you have live plants.

Answer 5

It should be fine but check what is in the water.
Some spring water contains salt, chlorine, floride...
You can also use your tap water with a phosphate sponge to remove it.

Answer 6

Spring water is OK, but its going to become a hassle doing water changes. Try a more permanent solution.
http://www.thatpetplace.com/pet/cat/infoL3/22875/category.web

Answer 7

You can use it, but only if you buy a water purifier thing from your local pet store. I put tap water in my tank, put in the water purifier, and my fish are doing fine.