Ok. I use Prime for my water changes and while I follow the instructions listed on the bottle, there is nothing about how long to let this water treatment work. Is it OK to assume that it is instant? I am probably over-thinking this but was curious if anyone knows about this. Thanks

Hi there Mr. Matt

This works instantly, I often wondered the same thing. But I start filling my tank and then add prime and I have never had a problem.

I also use this method. As I am putting water into the tank I add dechlorinator and can only assume it works instantly. I personally have never had a problem.

My LFS changes water and adds dechor immidiatly.
so do I.
Although I add my Chalk(?) at the same time so I spread it during filling to keep the water at the same hardness.
Never had any problems.

The others are correct it take effect almost instantly, but i would always air on the side of caution if you add water to the tank. Its best to add the dechlorinator first then add the water. I would also recommend you turn the filter off while you add the new water. this would only be a short time of say 15 mins so wouldn't damage the cycle and decrease the chance of untreated water entering the filter. but don't forget to turn it back on.

I've recently heard that even if you just leave water out for an hour half of the chlorine buggers off, and over 24 hours the whole lot.

Chloramine doesn't just bugger off by itself though, but fortunately around here they don't use that in the water...yet.

That's a good idea to unplug the filter for 15 minutes to be safe. The way I have been doing it is unplugging my HOB and leaving my cannister going. I think I will try unplugging them both from now on.

I use a power strip, except for the lights. I shut off the power strip when I change water and 10-15 min after I'm finished. I also put in dechlorinator before I start to refill.I leave filters off for 10-15 min afterwards because there is some chlorine left for a few minutes after dechlorination. This won't harm the fish but I think it kills off some of the good bacteria in your filters. After trial and errors, and advice from friends in the business. I find this system works the best.