In order to make sure that your fish is healthy, you need to treat the normal tap water so that it suits their needs.
Let’s get started, shall we?
How Tap Water Conditioners Work
Did you know that normal tap water is like poison for your goldfish?
The thing is that chlorine isn’t the only culprit here. Water districts have different standards to process water and make it safe for human consumption.
These chemicals include chloramine, chlorine, etc. which are dangerous for your goldfish.
Some public water systems also disinfect water by adding chloramine to it and that may require you to get a water conditioner that works by splitting the chlorine-ammonia bond and then neutralize each separately.
Still, don’t understand what the fuss is about?
The task of a tap water conditioner is to add negatively charged ions to the water which attracts disinfectants to itself. Now, the positively charged chlorine ‘magnets’ stick to these negatively charged ones instead of your goldfish’s gills.
Tap water conditioners do the job by basically neutralizing the chlorine in the water by forming ionic bonds which basically renders the chlorine harmless---this simple process makes tap water safe for goldfish and nourishes the beneficial bacteria that help in keeping your aquarium healthy.
Well, to put into simple words, the treated tap water is basically full to the brim with chlorine ions that are charged positively and act as magnets that stick to your goldfish’s gills.And, this process neutralizes the water and renders the chlorine harmless.
Your Tap Water Conditioner Options
As I mentioned before, all water conditioners don’t serve the same purpose.
Some water conditioners also contain added vitamins that help boost your fish’s immune system and also help replenish the fish’s slime coat which provides the fish with an extra layer of defense against diseases.
Water conditioners generally last a long time and aren’t too expensive.
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The Top 4 Picks for the Best Aquarium Water Conditioner for Your Fish
When you visit the pet store, it is not uncommon to find quite a few brands of aquarium water conditioners.
But, which one should you buy?
Let’s take a peek:
Product | Our Rating | Buy |
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Now, let’s talk about all of these five aquarium water conditioners in detail, shall we?
Let’s begin, shall we?
The Seachem Prime is a concentrated conditioner that helps in curing both, fresh as well as saltwater.
The conditioner works well in removing chloramine, chlorine, and ammonia.
The water conditioner helps convert ammonia to a non-toxic and safe material which is then removed by the biofilter in your filter.
This water conditioner can also be used when tank cycling as it helps with ammonia and nitrate toxicity as well.
Pros and Cons
Pros
Cons
WHY WE LIKE THIS PRODUCT!
Seachem Prime Fresh & Saltwater Conditioner - Chemical Remover and Detoxifier is designed to be used in either fresh or saltwater tanks. One bottle goes a very long way! A 500 mL bottle treats 5,000 gallons. You get your money’s worth in this product.
You can add Seachem Prime to new water or replacement water with the assurance that both chlorine and chloramine are entirely removed. Ammonia won’t be a problem because it is detoxified by converting it to an innate form which is then removed by the tank’s biofilter. No need to worry about your pH levels; Seachem Prime is non-acidic, which does not impact pH.
Seachem Prime promotes a more natural slime coat in fish whereas other products use artificial compounds for slime coat. Lastly, this product does not upset the balance of skimmers in your tank.
Seachem Prime Fresh & Saltwater Conditioner - Chemical Remover and Detoxifier
Questions & Answers
Question:
Is Seachem Prime the only thing to add to water to condition it?
Answer:
Yes. Seachem Prime is a COMPLETE water conditioner
Question:
If I have a 55-gallon tank and do a 35% water change, how much Seachem Prime should I add?
Answer:
The rule of measurement for Seachem Prime is to use 1mL per 10 gallons of water.
Question:
Is there an easier way to measure Seachem Prime than using the cap?
Answer:
A small syringe is perfect for measuring mL for smaller tanks.
Question:
How long does a new tank have to cycle after you add Seachem Prime?
Answer:
Adding Seachem Prime when setting up a new tank does not shorten cycling. You will still need to cycle your new tank for several weeks. It will, however, dechlorinate your new tank immediately.
I feel that this is a good option when you’re looking for a good aquarium water conditioner.
- POWERFUL TREATMENT: Seachem Prime is a complete and concentrated conditioner for both freshwater and saltwater fish tanks, working hard to remove chlorine and chloramine.
- REMOVER: Seachem Prime immediately and permanently removes chlorine and chloramine, successfully allowing the bio filter to remove ammonia, nitrite, and nitrate while they are detoxified for 48 hours.
- DETOXIFIER: Seachem Prime effectively detoxifies ammonia, nitrite, and heavy metals found in the tap water at typical concentration levels, providing a ideal environment for your betta, tetra, or other fish.
- USE: Use 1 capful (5 mL) of Seachem Prime for each 200 L (50 US gallons) of new or replacement water. For best results, add Seachem Prime to new water first. For exceptionally high chloramine concentrations, a double dose may be used safely. For smaller volumes, use 2 drops per gallon.
- SAFETY: In case of an emergency, the 5x dose of Seachem Prime may be used for both ammonia and nitrite. Use a ½ dose if the water temperature is > 30°C (86°F) and chlorine or ammonia levels are low.
Last update on 2023-03-29 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The Tetra AquaSafe Plus water conditioner contains seaweed which helps nourish the development of bacteria that are beneficial for clean water which is ideal for fish and works really well to make tap water safe for your goldfish.
This water conditioner helps neutralize chloramines, chlorine, and heavy metals which are harmful to your fish in general.
Pros and Cons
Pros
Cons
WHY WE LIKE THIS PRODUCT!
Tetra AquaSafe Plus Water Conditioner-Dechlorinator can be used in either fresh or saltwater tanks.
The product comes in five different sizes, making it convenient to purchase the right size to meet your tank needs.
The smallest container size of 1.69 oz. will treat up to 100 gallons.
This product works within seconds of adding it to new or replacement water. Both chlorine and chloramine are removed while ammonia and hard metals are rendered innate (non-toxic.)
Beneficial bacteria within the tank are supported by Tetra AquaSafe Plus’ BioExtract. It’s important to have this bacteria to keep your tank’s water clear and unpolluted.
Fish benefit from the slime coat in Tetra AquaSafe Plus. Slime coat is necessary for a fish to heal quickly in the event of abrasions or injury.
Lastly, this product runs “neck in neck” with Seachem Prime as far as reviews and how well it performs.
Tetra AquaSafe Plus Water Conditioner / Dechlorinator
Questions & Answers
Question:
Can this be used in a desktop 1-gallon tank? If so, how much should I add to the water?
Answer:
Tetra AquaSafe Plus can be used in tanks as small as 1-gallon. The dosing for one gallon of water is 8-10 drops.
Question:
Is it best to use the cap to measure dosing?
Answer:
Syringes are the best way to measure if you are dosing in ml. If you are dosing by drops, a small eyedropper works great.
Be sure that either item you use is clean and free from chemicals, medicine, etc.
Question:
How does Tetra AquaSafe Plus compare to Seachem Prime?
Answer:
Price: Tetra AquaSafe Plus costs a little more
Strength: Seachem Prime is stronger
Reviews: Seachem Prime is rated slightly higher.
Slime Coat: Seachem Prime does not have slime coat additive.
Question:
What size of Tetra AquaSafe Plus should I purchase if I have a 55-gallon tank?
Answer:
We suggest getting the 33.8 oz bottle for a large tank. Other suggestions for purchase size:
Small (up to 10 gallons) - 1.69 oz
Medium (up to 30 gallons) - 8.45 oz
Large (40+ gallons) - 16.9 oz or 33.8 oz
Last update on 2023-03-29 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Moving on…
The API protect goldfish water conditioner works well to help maintain the good quality of water and strengthens your goldfish’s immune system to keep the fish strong, vibrant, and free of diseases.
I recommend that you test the aquarium water on a weekly basis to make sure that it is of an optimal quality as well as change 25% of the water twice a week to help reduce the buildup of toxicity.
Pros
Cons
WHY WE LIKE THIS PRODUCT!
API Goldfish Protect is one of the leading brands in goldfish care.
This product is specially designed for goldfish environments.
With that in mind, consumers give it almost a perfect rating. It is affordably priced and easy to use.
An added benefit is this product includes beneficial bacteria.
These bacteria convert toxic ammonia and nitrites into nitrates.
Nitrates are harmless for fish.
As a result, you will have clearer and vibrant tank water.
API Goldfish Protect
Questions & Answers
Question:
Can API Goldfish Protect be used with other freshwater or saltwater fish?
Answer:
No. This product is designed for goldfish and should never be used in saltwater or brackish water.
Question:
Is this a complete water conditioner?
Answer:
No. It is a dechlorinator and ammonia neutralizer. It does not neutralize or detoxify heavy metals that are present in municipal water systems.
Question:
If I have a 10-gallon tank, how much should I use?
Answer:
You should use 5 ml per 10 gallons of water.
- Contains one (1) API GOLDFISH PROTECT Aquarium Water Conditioner 4-Ounce Bottle
- Makes tap water safe for fish
- Prevents tap water chemicals from causing gill destruction, tissue irritation and fish death
- Neutralizes chlorine, chloramines and other chemicals
- Use when adding or changing water and when adding new fish to goldfish aquariums
Last update on 2023-03-29 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
This is the final one on my list!
The Aqueon tap water conditioner is a good solution for your goldfish as it helps tackle chloramine, chlorine as well as ammonia and heavy metals and helps restore the fish’s slime coat.
This water conditioner also works well in reducing stress in fish.
Pros
Cons
WHY WE LIKE THIS PRODUCT!
Simply put, Aqueon Tap Water Conditioner is a no-frills conditioner for tap water that covers all necessary bases when it comes to tank water.
This product will effectively remove chlorine, chloramine while detoxifying ammonia and heavy metals. It does include a restorative additive for slime coat, which is a big bonus.
If you have Bettas, this product is ideal for treating small Betta bowls.
You can select from three different size options, making it convenient for small to large tanks.
Aqueon Tap Water Conditioner
Questions & Answers
Question:
How long should I wait to return my fish to the water after using this product?
Answer:
You can return your fish back to the water within minutes of treating the water.
However, if you are cycling a new tank, you must continue to cycle the tank for a few weeks before adding fish.
Question:
How does Aqueon Tap Water Conditioner compare to other top-selling water conditioners?
Answer:
The thing that sets this product apart from other conditioners is its simplicity.
It does not contain extra additives that other conditioners have.
It is mild in form whereas Seachem Prime is stronger.
Aqueon Tap Water Conditioner is less expensive than the other leading conditioners.
Question:
Will this product affect the pH level in the water?
Answer:
No, because it is non-acidic.
Question:
Can this be used with goldfish?
Answer:
Yes. It works for any freshwater fish.
- Instantly conditions tap water making it safe for fish and plants
- Developed specially for smaller bowls and aquariums
- Neutralizes harmful chlorine, chloramines, ammonia and heavy metals
- Use when preparing tap water for newer bowls
- Made in the USA
Last update on 2023-03-29 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Aquarium Water Conditioner for Your Goldfish Conclusion
Did I help you in finding the best aquarium water conditioner for your goldfish?
Product | Our Rating | Buy |
|---|---|---|
Best Aquarium Water Conditioner Brands
Seachem:
The founder of Seachem was a fish hobbyist who recognized that aquarists worldwide were seeking solutions to problems. The amazing thing about this company is that it is owned and staffed with fish hobbyists and aquarists.
They take pride in their personal aquariums and tanks both at home and in the office.
For 35 years now, Seachem has been one of the pet industry’s leading suppliers. Their products are sold all over the world!
Every Seachem product is developed by chemists and marine biologists backed by sound science.
Tetra:
Tetra is the largest global supplier of fish supplies; food, tanks/supplies, water treatments, and hardware. The company was founded fifty years ago by Dr. Baensch, who invented flaked fish food. Tetra’s team of researchers are fellow fish enthusiasts who share the same passion for fish.
API:
API is a subsidiary of Mars Petcare (Mars, Inc.) Mars Petcare is comprised of 50 brands of pet products in over 55 countries. API has been in the aquatic pet industry since the late 1960s. Their fish products include water treatments, tank supplies, and nutrition. Researchers at Mars, Inc. have led the way in the advancement of caring for fish.
API’s products are one of the most popular brands of fish-related supplies that is purchased globally.
Aqueon:
Aqueon is a global subsidiary of Central Garden and Pet. Central Garden and Pet is an umbrella company for a large number of brands for various industries; pets, wildlife, gardening, insecticide/pest control.
Aqueon’s fish products span everything from tank supplies, food, and water treatments.
Final Thought
Still, have any questions or concerns? Leave them in the comments section…