I know this has been asked before but I can't find the thread anywhere, and I've been searching for nearly three hours now.
What is the link for finding the ammonia levels in U.S. tap water? I tested my water and it's coming out at 1.0. I used Aquasafe on it and the reading is the same. I want to know what exactly is used in my local municipal water treatment, and how to get them to come test my tap water. I just set up a new 10 gal tank today and the ammonia test is showing high levels of ammonia immediately, and I don't want to harm the feeder fish before they can properly cycle the aquarium.

I have a prob with nitrates in my tap. Although i never had an ammonia reading i definately have nitrates...on my tests and an independent lab. I got the local water company to come test it and they did. They said the reading was 3.7 ppm. My point is the water company is not going to be honest with you if there is a prob with your water. I know they are lying to me but i guess there is nothing i can do about it. If you have any doubts you can have an independent lab test it but i would skip the local water company test. As you can see i do not like the water company hehe

The phone number to the water company will be on your bill. if you are worried you can ask them to come and test your water.

Even if you can get a hold of them, they won't do much of anything. I know the feeling, I work at a fish store and the tap water has 1ppm ammonia. So I just do small water changes and let the bacteria break the ammonia down, if you only do a 10% water change and the tap water tests at 1ppm, than your tank should have .1ppm. which should not kill your fish, but may stress them out. And the ammonia always breaks down to 0ppm overnight. It's not an ideal situation An R.O. system would be better but they can be expensive. I feel your pain.

JennyTmouh wrote:


There should be a website for your city water department where they are obligated by law to display a pdf file of the most recent water readings. Perhaps it is not completely accurate however i highly doubt there is going to be a drastic difference from what is currently coming out of your tap. If you still have concerns, like was mentioned before, call them at the number off your monthly water bill.