Who Gives A Fish Forums

Has anyone tried chemical-free dechlorination methods? I'm setting up a new tank and wanna avoid using commercial conditioners. Heard about letting water sit for 24 hours, but not sure if that's enough for chloramine.

I've used the sitting method for years with no issues, but my tap water only has chlorine, not chloramine. If yours has chloramine, you might need to look into other options like activated carbon or UV treatment.

Activated carbon in your filter can help with chloramine, but it's not a perfect solution. You'd need to replace it frequently, and it might not catch everything. UV is more reliable but pricey. What's your tank size?

It's a 55-gallon planted tank. I'm gonna try the sitting method first and see how it goes. Thanks for the tips!

Hampuk wrote: ↑Sat Jul 05, 2025 3:07 pm It's a 55-gallon planted tank. I'm gonna try the sitting method first and see how it goes. Thanks for the tips!

Let us know how it works out. I'm curious if the plants help with any residual chlorine.

Plants can absorb some chlorine, but it's not a guarantee. I'd still recommend testing the water after 24 hours to be safe. What kind of plants are you using?

I don't trust the sitting method. Too much risk for my fish. Why not just use a conditioner? It's easier.

Some folks prefer to avoid additives, and I get that. If you're gonna go chemical-free, just make sure you're testing regularly. Chloramine is nasty stuff.

I've heard boiling water can help, but that's a hassle for a 55-gallon tank. Maybe for smaller tanks though.

Boiling works for chlorine but not chloramine, so be careful. Also, it's a lot of work for bigger tanks like yours. Maybe stick with the sitting method and test often.