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Is my well water with a salt filter safe for my aquarium fish?
Updated on September 23rd, 2025
Pet's info: Fish | Unknown - Fish
We are new to having aquariums, we really didn't realize so many things played a factor with the water. We currently have a 10 gallon tank but want to increase to a 29 gallon tank. We currently buy gallons of water but with the 29 gallon tank we really don't want to have to do that. We have well water with a salt filter. My levels from to tap was nitrate 10, nitrite 0, hardness 0, chlorine 0, alk 100, ph 7.. is my tap water safe even with the salt filter.
1 Answer
Most Helpful Answer
Answered By Angel Alvarado, LVT
Licensed Veterinary Technician
Published on August 10th, 2018
Water softeners leave very little salt residue in the treated water. Most, not all, fish *should* do fine in softened water. Make sure you get species that does better in soft water. Use a hardness kit and monitor KH. This parameter is what can affect pH.
You can set aside a gallon or two and test it after it has aged for 24-48 hours to confirm it is safe to use.
Check the softener unit for a bypass valve. Some units will have one or you can get one installed. Taps/faucets outside may not be in line with the softener, so you can use water from there if necessary.
You can set aside a gallon or two and test it after it has aged for 24-48 hours to confirm it is safe to use.
Check the softener unit for a bypass valve. Some units will have one or you can get one installed. Taps/faucets outside may not be in line with the softener, so you can use water from there if necessary.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful