It’s no secret that keeping a fish tank can be tricky business. Not only do you have to worry about keeping the water clean and free of contaminants, but you also have to ensure the pH level is correct and the fish are getting enough oxygen. So, can dehumidifier water distort these optimal conditions and risk the lives of your fish?
You can’t use dehumidifier water in a fish tank because it contains metals like copper and oils, which can endanger the life of your fish. Apart from reducing oxygen quality in the water, these contaminants can also increase the risk of fungal and bacterial infections in your fish.
In this article, I’ll discuss reasons to avoid using dehumidifier water in your fish tank. You’ll also know the safer water alternatives for your fish tank. Keep reading to learn how to keep your fish safe using suitable water.
Reasons You Should Not Use Dehumidifier Water in a Fish Tank
According to Sea Grant, quality water is an essential survival component for fish. The water must be clean because fish depend on it for oxygen. Therefore, using dehumidifier water in a fish tank exposes your fish to many risks, as discussed below:
Copper Poisoning
A study by the University of Florida found that copper is toxic to most fish species. Most fish find it challenging to survive in copper water because it disturbs their gills and inhibits oxygen uptake. The study also found that even short-term exposure to copper water can cause long-term adverse effects in fish, such as liver damage.
The toxicity of copper in fish water varies depending on:
- The sensitivity of the fish to copper.
- Age of the fish; old fish are more susceptible to copper poisoning.
- Presence of carbonates which can bind with copper to make it more toxic.
- The concentration of free copper (Cu2+).
Oils and Metals
Dehumidifier water often contains oils and metals like iron, which can pollute the water and make it unsafe for fish. Oils can coat the gills of fish, making it difficult for them to breathe. On the other hand, metals can poison fish and distort the delicate pH balance in their water, which is essential for survival.
Another critical concern with oil is that it doesn’t mix with water. Therefore, when oil remains on the water surface, it can prevent oxygen from diffusing into the water, which is essential for fish survival. Moreover, the slick oily substance on the surface poisons any animal in the water.
Other consequences of oil to fish include:
- Enlarged livers
- Reduced growth
- Fin erosion
- Reproduction impairment
Fungal and Bacterial Infections
A dehumidifier may contain airborne bacteria and fungi if not adequately cleaned. If you use water from such a dehumidifier in a fish tank, the bacteria and fungi will be transferred into the fish tank.
Fungi expose your fish to fungal infections (mycoses). Poor water quality is one of the causes of an increase in fungal infections among healthy fish.
Fungal and bacterial infections can cause skin ulcers and fin rot in fish. Fin rot is a common bacterial infection that causes the fins and tail of fish to rot. The affected area turns white or black and eventually falls off.
On the other hand, skin ulcers are open wounds on the skin of fish caused by bacteria or fungi. The ulcer is red, swollen, and sometimes has a yellowish crust. If left untreated, skin ulcers can be catastrophic.
Safer Alternatives to Dehumidifier Water for Your Fish Tank
Now that you know the risks of using dehumidifier water in a fish tank, you may be wondering what the safer alternatives are.
Below are some of the best water options for your fish tank:
Tap Water
Tap water is treated with chlorine, which kills bacteria and other contaminants. Therefore, you should use a water conditioner to remove the chlorine from tap water before adding it to your fish tank.
Alternatively, you should let the water sit for 24 hours to dechlorinate.
Reverse Osmosis Water
Reverse osmosis (RO) is a water filtration process that removes contaminants, including heavy metals, bacteria, and salts. RO water is an excellent option for a fish tank because it’s free of contaminants that can harm your fish.
You can purchase a reverse osmosis water filter or system for your home.
Expert Tip: It’s advisable to remineralize reverse osmosis water before adding it to the tank. This is because reverse osmosis filters even the essential minerals.
Distilled Water
Distillation is a water purification process that removes contaminants, including bacteria and heavy metals. The advantage of distillation is that it doesn’t filter essential minerals from the water. Therefore, the water remains healthy and safer for your fish.
Final Thoughts
Using dehumidifier water in a fish tank exposes your fish to copper poisoning and fungal and bacterial infections. It’s therefore essential not to use dehumidifier water in a fish tank; instead, use distilled, reverse osmosis, or tap water. The goal is to keep your fish safe.
Sources
- Sea Grant: Lesson 2: Fish Habitat
- University of Florida Extension: Use of Copper in Marine Aquaculture and Aquarium Systems
- ABC Science: Cleaning Up Oil Spills Can be Bad for Fish
- Healthline: Dehumidifier Benefits, Side Effects, and When and How To Use Them
- Veterinary World Organization: Fungus Disease in Fish, Diagnosis and Treatment
- Long’s Ecowater: The Best Water for Your Aquarium
