I need help getting my Nitrates under control

Welcome to 3 Reef!!

I was curious as to why you changed the Crushed coral?

And as said, loose the bio balls.

 

Thanks for the welcome to the board!!!

I changed out the crushed coral because it looked really dirty and had a slight odor. Well and I like the look of sand better.

I removed the bio balls after doing alot of reading 2 days ago and did a 40gallon water change. My nitrates are still reading at about 100 or a little higher (by me trying to judge the color in the tube) More of a red color instead of orange.

My other tests are still looking very good Amonia and Nitrites are at 0 and the PH is around 7.8.

I have a big megaflow model 4 wet dry filter and have also started a refugium in the center area. started with some live sand in there with cheato and small pieces of LR.

What do you guys think of miracle mud? should I just wait awhile and keep testing to see the changes? Was hoping to be able to start stocking the tank in a couple of weeks but the nitrates really have me concerned.

I am thinking of doing another 40gallon water change this week sometime but, this will be the 4th. and all that water is starting to add up on my limited budget ( I am on disabbility) I still think I need better light but, they are outragoues. If anyone knows wher i might be able to pick up some good used lights, it would be appreciated..

Thanks Again,

Shane