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Will a peat filter soften water?
Posted: Sat Jul 26, 2025 11:26 am
by willy
I've been reading about peat filters and their effects on water hardness. Does anyone have experience using them to soften water in a planted tank? My tap water is pretty hard, around 10 dGH, and I'm trying to get it down to 6 for my Tetras.
Re: Will a peat filter soften water?
Posted: Sat Jul 26, 2025 11:36 am
by Foldo
Peat filters can definitely soften water, but they're not the most consistent method. They release tannins and organic acids that lower pH and GH over time. I've used them in a 20-gallon with driftwood, and it took about two weeks to see a noticeable drop. Just be ready for the water to turn tea-colored.
Re: Will a peat filter soften water?
Posted: Sat Jul 26, 2025 11:43 am
by buzzybee
Yep, peat works, but it's kinda messy. If you're cool with the brown water vibe, go for it. I'd pair it with some Indian Almond Leaves for extra softening. My Betta tank loves it, but my Corys? Not so much. They're picky about changes.
Re: Will a peat filter soften water?
Posted: Sat Jul 26, 2025 12:09 pm
by tagword
Foldo wrote: ↑Sat Jul 26, 2025 11:36 am
Peat filters can definitely soften water, but they're not the most consistent method. They release tannins and organic acids that lower pH and GH over time. I've used them in a 20-gallon with driftwood, and it took about two weeks to see a noticeable drop. Just be ready for the water to turn tea-colored.
Exactly. Consistency is the issue. If you need stable params, consider an RO system instead. Peat's great for biotope tanks though, especially if you're aiming for a Blackwater setup.
Re: Will a peat filter soften water?
Posted: Sat Jul 26, 2025 12:15 pm
by paxel
Aye, peat's legit for softening, but it's slow. I chucked some in a media bag in my HOB filter, and it took a month to drop my GH from 8 to 5. Also, test your water weekly, 'cause it can swing if you're not careful.
Re: Will a peat filter soften water?
Posted: Sat Jul 26, 2025 12:57 pm
by daxel
I've had success with peat in my shrimp tank. It softened the water gradually, which is safer for sensitive species. Just avoid overdoing it—start with a small amount and monitor. My Caridinas are thriving now, but it took patience.
Re: Will a peat filter soften water?
Posted: Sat Jul 26, 2025 1:21 pm
by journo
buzzybee wrote: ↑Sat Jul 26, 2025 11:43 am
Yep, peat works, but it's kinda messy. If you're cool with the brown water vibe, go for it. I'd pair it with some Indian Almond Leaves for extra softening. My Betta tank loves it, but my Corys? Not so much. They're picky about changes.
Yeah, Corys can be drama queens. Peat's a solid choice if you're not in a hurry. Just don't expect overnight results, and maybe skip it if you've got fish that hate tannins.
Re: Will a peat filter soften water?
Posted: Sat Jul 26, 2025 1:34 pm
by willy
Thanks for the input, everyone. I'll start with a small amount of peat and keep an eye on the params. My Tetras should appreciate the softer water, and I don't mind the tannins.
Re: Will a peat filter soften water?
Posted: Sat Jul 26, 2025 2:07 pm
by easton
Good call. Just remember to recharge or replace the peat every few months. It loses effectiveness over time, and you don't want your GH bouncing back up suddenly.
Re: Will a peat filter soften water?
Posted: Sat Jul 26, 2025 2:36 pm
by Flare9
Peat's cheap and works, but it's a hassle. I switched to RO water mixed with tap to get my params dialed in. Way less guesswork, but yeah, it's pricier upfront.