Do I still have to condition aged water?

Question

I just started using tap water that has been aged for about 24 hours for my betta. Prior to this I have been using tap water that has been conditioned with betta conditioner. Do I still need to add betta conditioner to the aged water, or does the aging process make it safe enough?
If I need to add betta conditioner to the aged water, then should I put the recommended amount of should I reduce it by 50% or so?

Answer 1

I would suggest you still used the conditioner. Aging will allow the chlorine to escape from the water, but not other potential chemicals such as chlorimines. Adding the conditioner will insure the water is safe for your betta

MM

Answer 2

You still need to condition your water. Use the recommended dosage.

Aging water is effective only to get rid of trapped gasses, like chlorine, that will evaporate out in 24 hours. Today, many companies have switched from using chlorine gas to treat water to using chloramine. Chloramine will not evaporate from water, so aging will do nothing to help reduce the amount of chloramine in tap water.

In addition, the conditioner will also neutralize the traces of heavy metals that are often present in both tap water and well water and can be toxic to both fish and invertebrates. So even if the water company in your area doesn't use chloramine to treat the water, it's better for your fish to always treat the water for your tank with a good conditioner.

Answer 3

Do you know what your water provider uses in their water? If it's chlorine, that will have dissipated after 24 hrs. If they use chloramine (a chlorine-ammonia combination), this is more stable and will still be in the water (this almost needs to be removed with conditioner). A phone call to the company's office is all you need to find out.

Also, if there is a high metal concentration in the water, the conditioner you use may combine with them to neutralize them (some metals can be toxic to fish and inverts). My water company still uses chlorine, so I just do a 24 hr. aging and I haven't had any problems just using the water without adding any conditioner. If you're unable to get in contact with your water company, I would still add the full amount (at least until your certain they don't use chloramine). After that, you can add 1/2 to the full amount if there's any concern about metals (they should be able to advise you here as well).

Answer 4

I agree with everyone here who has said to still condition the water. it really depends on the area you live in and what your water has in it. you'd have to get a test done to know for sure so it's best to just use the conditioner.

however, I wanted to point out that a few things that can save you a lot of money.
*you don't need to use "betta" water conditioners. they're not different than normal conditioners, just priced higher because they know people will pay more. I get a conditioner that costs me $3 and lasts me about a year, but i have 3 large tanks and 5 smaller tanks, so I go through it faster than you probably would.
*getting your fish a small filtered and heated tank would not only be best for it's health, but it would also eliminate full water changes! you'd only need to do about a 20% water change once a week with a turkey baster or gravel vacuum. just something to think about. in case you're interested here is an estimate:
*2.5 gallon tank - $10 or $25 for a "starter kit" (I hate starter kits because they just throw a bunch of cheap crap together and overcharge you for it, the tanks are prettier though. however, if you get a starter kit you'll most likely need to buy a filter and heater because they provide you with inadequate ones. lights fluctuate the temp too much in small tanks because they need to be turned off at night and under gravel filters are provided in small tanks usually. these will cut back on full water changes but in most cases won't eliminate the need for them all together).
*filter - $5
*heater - $7 (look for a 7.5 watt heater)

Answer 5

The old myth that water needs conditioned for 24 hours is just that a myth. Letting water sit for 24 hours does nothing but loose much needed dissolved oxygen. Using a dechlor to create safe water is what you need to do. Letting water sit does NOT remove the chlormates in it. You still need to get a dechlor for your fish.

Mix your water with the dechlor and use as soon as it comes to room temperature if you are putting it in a bowl. No need to let it sit.

Answer 6

this totally depends on the type of water treatment your local municipality does on your local tap water. if they treat it with chlorine, then aging the water (letting it stand uncovered overnite) should suffice. however, most cities treat their tap water with chloramines nowadays. aging alone doesn't get rid of the chloramines. you'll have to use a commercial water conditioner/treatment to detox the water. you'll have to follow the instructions according to the product label.

Answer 7

I always used filtered water aged. Using conditioner is still a good idea. Most have vitamins and minerals that are good for the fish.

Answer 8

Yes, I would still use the recommended dosage for the water
That way you really ensure that the water is safe for your betta


Good luck


EB

Answer 9

if your tap water has chlorine in it or if its softened water you would need the Betta cure water chemicals

Answer 10

that's why i love to answer in this section... those bright ideas that were said above are most likely to be considered.. (esp copper and MM)... well, for me, aged water is likewise good for your fish... but would you consider risking your fish's life just because of negligence? well i believe you won't so most likely you would do water conditioning even if its aged... =)

enjoy and good luck...