Editor's Choice - Our Favorite Freshwater Aquarium Water Treatments

1. API TAP Water Conditioner, Instantly neutralizes Chlorine, chloramines and Other Chemicals to Make t...

User Ratings: 83 2

API 52C First Impressions

"A MUST BUY!"

Use a heater and crank it to 82 degrees again without fish in the tank. It is just as good when compared to other brands of conditioner. Dealing with biological cloudiness in my tank for some time. More doesn't hurt anything, but it's just wasted. If you have new tank syndrome then this is the stuff. I have a 5 gallon tank, so that number was waaaay too high for me. Beats the heck out of those expensive suit cleaners.

  • API TAP Water Conditioner, Instantly neutralizes Chlorine, chloramines and Other Chemicals to Make tap Water Safe for Fish, Highly Concentrated, Use When Adding or Changing Water and When Adding Fish
  • Contains one (1) API TAP WATER CONDITIONER Aquarium Water Conditioner 16-Ounce Bottle
  • Neutralizes chlorine, chloramines and other chemicals to make tap water safe for fish
  • Prevents tap water chemicals from causing gill destruction, tissue irritation and fish death
  • Super strength, high concentration formula
  • Use when adding or changing water and when adding new fish to freshwater and saltwater aquariums
  • Manufacture: Aquarium Pharmaceuticals
  • Product Dimensions: 2.5 x 2.5 x 8.75 inches; 1.2 Pounds
  • Editor's Impressions Of The API 52C
  • Treatment Effectiveness [star rating='4.7']
  • Quality [star rating='5']
  • Value For Money [star rating='3.8']
  • Affordability [star rating='5']

API 52C Final Thoughts

"Mostly for betta's."

My water is crystal clear again, and it smells like a healthy fish tank again. I recieved it today at 3pm and applied it around 4pm. Boy, I thought I was having trouble with my filter. It only requires 3 drops per gallon you add to your tank. Crystal clear after changing water and adding this to my 2. You have to understand when to use this product, and what is is used for. This product is exactly what it says it is.

Overall Score
4.7

[star rating="4.7"]
(8131 Points)

Peoples Choice - Other Highly Rated Freshwater Aquarium Water Treatments

2. API Aquarium Algae Remover

User Ratings: 68 8

API 87E First Impressions

"I have six tanks."

I've used every product on the market and this is the most AMAZING MUST HAVE PRODUCT! Fish would die occassionally every few weeks or so. Use a water conditioner that does not remove ammonia. I read the reviews, and decided to give this a try. I'm amazed, I'm really amazed that this product worked so well. I've had my fishy for 5 years now and I would say it's ALL because of Fluval. I have been using API on his suits for 3 weeks now and so far so good.

  • API Aquarium Algae Remover
  • Contains one (1) API ALGAEFIX Algae Control Solution 16-Ounce Bottle
  • Controls algae growth and keeps aquarium glass, ornaments and plants clean
  • Fast-acting and effective on "green water" algae blooms, string or hair algae and others
  • Safe for freshwater fish and plants when used as directed
  • Dose every three days until algae is under control then dose weekly
  • Manufacture: Aquarium Pharmaceuticals
  • Product Dimensions: 2 x 2 x 6 inches; 3.2 Ounces
  • Editor's Impressions Of The API 87E
  • Treatment Effectiveness [star rating='4.8']
  • Quality [star rating='4.8']
  • Value For Money [star rating='4.7']
  • Affordability [star rating='3.4']

API 87E Final Thoughts

"I love this stuff!"

My filter including polishing element could not clear it up. I know you are going to want to add more chemicals, etc. I like API products and this is no different. I do not use this as a product to treat my tap water. We use it when we clean& change out water. Fish would die occassionally every few weeks or so. I even poured in extra to help with the healing.

Overall Score
4.3

[star rating="4.3"]
(4037 Points)

3. API Quick Start Nitrifying Bacteria, for Freshwater and Saltwater Aquarium

User Ratings: 83 2

API 89E First Impressions

"Then go for it."

Crystal clear after changing water and adding this to my 2. I know you are going to worry about your fish DON'T they are fine. I've used API water conditioner before and it works well. API Stress Coat is a phenomenal product. The aquasafe works instantly upon mixing with tap water. I have had aquariums for 40 years and have always used their product Cycle. I like API products and this is no different.

  • API Quick Start Nitrifying Bacteria, for Freshwater and Saltwater Aquarium
  • Contains one (1) API QUICK START Freshwater and Saltwater Aquarium Nitrifying Bacteria 16-Ounce Bottle
  • Allows instant addition of fish when starting a new aquarium
  • Reduces compounds harmful to fish when used routinely
  • Helps prevent fish loss in freshwater and saltwater aquariums
  • Use when starting a new aquarium, when adding new fish and when changing water and filter media
  • Manufacture: Aquarium Pharmaceuticals
  • Product Dimensions: 2.5 x 2.5 x 8.75 inches; 0.32 Ounces
  • Editor's Impressions Of The API 89E
  • Treatment Effectiveness [star rating='4.3']
  • Quality [star rating='5']
  • Value For Money [star rating='4.5']
  • Affordability [star rating='3.9']

API 89E Final Thoughts

"I have guppies."

I tried it without the water change and really didn't make a difference. It is much safer to simply to add 3 drops per gallon. The chloramines contain a small amount of ammonia. I'm sold on this, I've tried SO MANY and wow. Use a heater and crank it to 82 degrees again without fish in the tank. Use a heater and crank it to 82 degrees again without fish in the tank. Sure enough they are back to their healthy coloration and didn't end up dying on me.

Overall Score
4.7

[star rating="4.7"]
(3936 Points)

4. API Stress Zyme Bacterial Cleaner, Freshwater and Saltwater Aquarium Water Cleaning Solution

User Ratings: 85 2

API 56E First Impressions

"Worked just as well."

The equation is already done for you if you buy Dr. Do not gravel vac or disturb the substrate. Fish are aerobic organisms that are susceptible to ROS. I have a 5 gallon tank, so that number was waaaay too high for me. I've using this for my betta for several years with every water change. This only applies to the 1st application. Initially this was used as a sample packet came with our aquarium.

  • API Stress Zyme Bacterial Cleaner, Freshwater and Saltwater Aquarium Water Cleaning Solution
  • Contains one (1) API STRESS ZYME Freshwater and Saltwater Aquarium Cleaning Solution 16-Ounce Bottle
  • Keeps freshwater and saltwater aquariums clean and reduces maintenance
  • Consumes sludge to help keep gravel and decorations clean
  • Adds beneficial bacteria for a healthy aquarium
  • Use weekly to maintain a clean, healthy aquarium
  • Manufacture: Aquarium Pharmaceuticals
  • Product Dimensions: 10 x 10 x 10 inches; 1.2 Pounds
  • Editor's Impressions Of The API 56E
  • Treatment Effectiveness [star rating='4.1']
  • Quality [star rating='4.8']
  • Value For Money [star rating='5']
  • Affordability [star rating='3.9']

API 56E Final Thoughts

"No odor or discoloration."

My fish didn't appear negatively effected by it either. However, be aware that the dosage starts at 20 gallons. The aquasafe works instantly upon mixing with tap water. Use a heater and crank it to 82 degrees again without fish in the tank. The equation is already done for you if you buy Dr. I've used every product on the market and this is the most AMAZING MUST HAVE PRODUCT! I'll continue to use this product, especially after a good tank cleaning.

Overall Score
4.8

[star rating="4.8"]
(3764 Points)

Honorable Mentions - More Top Selling Freshwater Aquarium Water Treatments

5. API ACCU-CLEAR Freshwater Aquarium Water Clarifier

User Ratings: 78 4

API 111C First Impressions

"Very little was eaten."

It is just as good when compared to other brands of conditioner. I'm hoping this one works out if not I'm sticking to the one I used before. Its 9pm and the old cloudy water is now crystal clear! Easy to dispense the product without mess and easy to use per instructions. The bottle will last me years as it is huge! If either or both ammonia and Nitrite are above 1ppm do not add ammonia. I finally gave in and purchased this product.

  • API ACCU-CLEAR Freshwater Aquarium Water Clarifier
  • Contains one (1) API ACCU-CLEAR Freshwater Aquarium Water Clarifier 8-Ounce Bottle
  • Clears cloudy aquarium water
  • Clumps floating particles into large clusters that can be easily removed by an aquarium filter
  • Works fast and maximizes filter efficiency
  • Use weekly and when cloudy water is observed in freshwater aquariums only
  • Manufacture: Aquarium Pharmaceuticals
  • Product Dimensions: 2 x 2 x 7.5 inches; 10 Ounces
  • Editor's Impressions Of The API 111C
  • Treatment Effectiveness [star rating='3.6']
  • Quality [star rating='5']
  • Value For Money [star rating='4.3']
  • Affordability [star rating='5']

API 111C Final Thoughts

"This pristine is amazing!"

I have two 36 gallon tanks right now. We use it when we clean& change out water. I use in a freshwater aquarium and works well. I hope it makes the swimsuit last longer. This worked really well for my tank. I could see it working immediately which was pretty wild. But the septic tank bacteria did nothing.

Overall Score
4.6

[star rating="4.6"]
(3566 Points)

6. Seachem Stability Fish Tank Stabilizer - for Freshwater and Marine Aquariums 500 ml

User Ratings: 87 2

Seachem First Impressions

"Wow my tank is so clear."

You need a source of ammonia to feed the bacteria which Dr. You need to buy an eye dropper for this. I have used this consistently since cycling my small sized fresh-water tank. This product is exactly what it says it is. If you're treating injured fins or introducing new fish, this is for you. I use mine for my beta fish in a 2 gallon tank and need less than a half a cap full. Now our fish have grown and we've added live plants.

  • Seachem Stability Fish Tank Stabilizer - for Freshwater and Marine Aquariums 500 ml
  • TANK STABILIZATION: Seachem Stability will rapidly and safely establish the aquarium biofilter in freshwater and marine systems, thereby preventing the #1 cause of fish death: "new tank syndrome".
  • TREATMENT: Stability is formulated specifically for the aquarium and contains a synergistic blend of aerobic, anaerobic, and facultative bacteria which facilitate the breakdown of waste organics, ammonia, nitrite, and nitrate.
  • BACTERIA GROWTH: The necessary conditions for the growth of Stability's bacteria strains encompass a very broad range. When other bacteria begin to die off (usually from high organic loads caused by the unknown death of an organism), Stability simply becomes more effective.
  • USE: Shake Seachem Stability well before use and turn off UV/ozone filter. Use 1 capful (5 mL) for each 40 L (10 US gallons) on the first day with a new aquarium. Then use 1 capful for each 80 L (20 US gallons) daily for 7 days. Fish and other aquatic species may be introduced at any time as long as dosage is maintained for 7 days.
  • SAFE: The bacteria employed by Stability are non-sulfur fixing and will not produce toxic hydrogen sulfide. Stability is completely harmless to all aquatic organisms as well as aquatic plants, thus there is no danger of overuse.
  • Manufacture: Seachem
  • Editor's Impressions Of The Seachem
  • Treatment Effectiveness [star rating='5']
  • Quality [star rating='5']
  • Value For Money [star rating='4.9']
  • Affordability [star rating='5']

Seachem Final Thoughts

"Never works."

One planted that has algae problem so bad. I tried it without the water change and really didn't make a difference. If either or both ammonia and Nitrite are above 1ppm do not add ammonia. I love all of the API products, especially their easy to use test kits. Its 9pm and the old cloudy water is now crystal clear! However if you want a stress coat, this is perfect. My filter including polishing element could not clear it up.

Overall Score
4.8

[star rating="4.8"]
(3154 Points)

7. Seachem Flourish Freshwater Plant Supplement

User Ratings: 78 2

Seachem 116051606 First Impressions

"No argument from me."

I've used every product on the market and this is the most AMAZING MUST HAVE PRODUCT! This is my absolute favorite conditioner I have used for all my aquatic creatures. I even poured in extra to help with the healing. I swim 5x week and usually my suits last about 2 months. My filter including polishing element could not clear it up. I've used it for years with great results. 2nd day kinda noticed a slight change in water.

  • Seachem Flourish Freshwater Plant Supplement
  • SUPPLEMENT: Seachem Flourish is a comprehensive plant supplement for the natural freshwater aquarium, containing a rich assortment of important micro elements, trace elements and other nutrients.
  • ELEMENTS: In order to benefit your aquatic plants and help your freshwater environment thrive, Seachem Flourish contains calcium, magnesium, iron, and other important elements.
  • WATER TREATMENT: For best results, use 1 capful (5 mL) of Flourish for each 250 L (60 US gallons) once or twice a week. For smaller doses, please note that each cap thread is approximately 1 mL. Refrigeration is recommended 3 months after opening.
  • SOLUTION COLOR: It is normal for the color of Seachem’s Flourish to vary by batch as the solution color is dependent on the temperature at which the product was blended. This variation in color is of no consequence to the function of Flourish.
  • SAFETY: Seachem Flourish is safe to use for invertebrates such as shrimp, but is designed to be used in conjunction with other macro and micro-nutrient supplements in aquariums only.
  • Manufacture: Seachem Laboratories, Inc.
  • Product Dimensions: 6.1 x 1.3 x 1.2 inches; 8.82 Ounces
  • Editor's Impressions Of The Seachem 116051606
  • Treatment Effectiveness [star rating='4.3']
  • Quality [star rating='3.9']
  • Value For Money [star rating='5']
  • Affordability [star rating='3.9']

Seachem 116051606 Final Thoughts

"It was a viscous cycle."

I've always had a love for fish and had a few tanks when I was younger. I have a 5 gallon tank, so that number was waaaay too high for me. The live plants even looked like I just bought them. I decided to pick it up once again and struggled mightily my first few months. Initially this was used as a sample packet came with our aquarium. The difference is that he was going twice his normal speed. The afternoon I received this product I added half a dose to each aquarium.

Overall Score
4.6

[star rating="4.6"]
(3034 Points)

8. API PIMAFIX Antifungal Freshwater and Saltwater Fish Remedy

User Ratings: 75 4

API 10J First Impressions

"Wow my tank is so clear."

In my opinion there's nothing better. You need a source of ammonia to feed the bacteria which Dr. Easy to dispense the product without mess and easy to use per instructions. Fish possess an antioxidant defense system to reduce the negative effects of ROS. Now our fish have grown and we've added live plants. It didn't kill the fish or cause any problems with the water so I stuck with it. No exaggeration-- literally cleared overnight.

  • API PIMAFIX Antifungal Freshwater and Saltwater Fish Remedy
  • Contains one (1) API PIMAFIX Antifungal Freshwater and Saltwater Fish Remedy 16-Ounce Bottle
  • Rapidly and safely treats fungal infections on body and fins of fish
  • Contains all-natural extract from West Indian Bay Trees to help with fungus and cottony growth
  • Helps heal internal and external bacterial infections in freshwater, saltwater and reef aquariums
  • Use daily for a week when treating infections
  • Manufacture: Aquarium Pharmaceuticals
  • Product Dimensions: 2.76 x 2.76 x 8.66 inches; 8 Ounces
  • Editor's Impressions Of The API 10J
  • Treatment Effectiveness [star rating='4.4']
  • Quality [star rating='5']
  • Value For Money [star rating='5']
  • Affordability [star rating='4']

API 10J Final Thoughts

"Really good product!"

This will give you how many drops is required per gallon. Fish possess an antioxidant defense system to reduce the negative effects of ROS. API Stress Coat is a phenomenal product. I'm sold on this, I've tried SO MANY and wow. I read another review for this product saying they were using API for this purpose. But the septic tank bacteria did nothing. It didn't kill the fish or cause any problems with the water so I stuck with it.

Overall Score
4.5

[star rating="4.5"]
(2016 Points)

9. API AMMO-LOCK Ammonia detoxifier, Detoxifies ammonia toxic to fish in aquarium water and tap water, ...

User Ratings: 75 3

API 45E First Impressions

"Shake well before use."

Way to go Fluval keep up the good WORK! If you have a freshwater fish tank, I highly recommend this product. Ever since I made this purchase, my fish are not dying at all. Way to go Fluval keep up the good WORK! My tap water is very heavy and this water conditioner does it's magic. The chloramines contain a small amount of ammonia. I know you are going to worry about your fish DON'T they are fine.

  • API AMMO-LOCK Ammonia detoxifier, Detoxifies ammonia toxic to fish in aquarium water and tap water, Use when ammonia is detected
  • Contains one (1) API AMMO-LOCK Freshwater and Saltwater Aquarium Ammonia Detoxifier 16-Ounce Bottle
  • Detoxifies ammonia in aquarium water and tap water
  • Works instantly to make aquarium water safe for fish
  • Eliminates fish stress caused by ammonia in freshwater and saltwater aquariums
  • Dose freshwater and saltwater every two days until ammonia is not detected
  • Manufacture: Aquarium Pharmaceuticals
  • Product Dimensions: 6 x 6 x 8 inches; 1 Pounds
  • Editor's Impressions Of The API 45E
  • Treatment Effectiveness [star rating='5']
  • Quality [star rating='4.3']
  • Value For Money [star rating='5']
  • Affordability [star rating='3.7']

API 45E Final Thoughts

"Of course."

Fish possess an antioxidant defense system to reduce the negative effects of ROS. I know you are going to want to add more chemicals, etc. DON'T just wait everything will be fine. I even poured in extra to help with the healing. I was sort of nervous buy this product and trying it out. I do not use this as a product to treat my tap water. This is the 5th since I put in the product and my tank is crystal clear.

Overall Score
4.6

[star rating="4.6"]
(1755 Points)

10. Tetra WaterClarifier Treatment Solution for Freshwater Aquariums

User Ratings: 73 5

Tetra 77136 First Impressions

"Best money can buy."

My filter including polishing element could not clear it up. Beats the heck out of those expensive suit cleaners. The water we get here in SoCal is hard with chlorine in it. Its 9pm and the old cloudy water is now crystal clear! I like that it's a large bottle with multiple uses, so that's nice. I hope it makes the swimsuit last longer. I could see it working immediately which was pretty wild.

  • Tetra WaterClarifier Treatment Solution for Freshwater Aquariums
  • FOR FRESHWATER aquariumS Quickly clears cloudy or hazy water caused by overfeeding gravel dust and other minute suspended particles
  • CLUMPING ACTION Causes small suspended particles to quickly clump together to settle or be removed during normal power filter operation
  • WORKS ON SOFT WATER Safe for fish even in very soft water (low kH) conditions
  • USAGE 1 teaspoon treats 10 gallons of water
  • Included Components: Tetra Water Clarifier (8.45 Oz)
  • Manufacture: Tetra
  • Product Dimensions: 1.63 x 3 x 7 inches; 10.24 Ounces
  • Editor's Impressions Of The Tetra 77136
  • Treatment Effectiveness [star rating='3.5']
  • Quality [star rating='3.7']
  • Value For Money [star rating='3.5']
  • Affordability [star rating='3.7']

Tetra 77136 Final Thoughts

"I recommend."

I love it when a product does what its supposed to. No exaggeration-- literally cleared overnight. This is only temporary till I get a spare dropper. Its 9pm and the old cloudy water is now crystal clear! By the following morning, the water was clear of algae. Do not clean the filters, do not change the filters. I read another review for this product saying they were using API for this purpose.

Overall Score
4.5

[star rating="4.5"]
(1499 Points)

Copyright © 2024 Rob Aquatics — Primer Child WordPress theme by GoDaddy