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SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/fish-dechlorinator

Why do you add dechlorinator to tap water?

It removes chlorine and chloramines, which are toxic to fish.

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  1. It adds ammonia
  2. It makes water colder
  3. It removes chlorine and chloramines ✔

Why: Municipal tap water often contains chlorine or chloramines to control germs. Dechlorinator makes it safe for fish and filter bacteria.

Huh, didn't know that: Some dechlorinators also bind ammonia in tap water or fish bags.

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References

Answer: It removes chlorine and chloramines. Municipal tap water often contains chlorine or chloramines to control germs. Dechlorinator makes it safe for fish and filter bacteria.

  1. Merck Veterinary Manual (pet owner): Providing a Home for Fish www.merckvetmanual.com/all-other-pets/fish/providing-a-home-for-fish
    Additives (dechlorinators) are available to remove both chlorine and chloramine from the water
    Checked 2026-10-11.
  2. Merck Veterinary Manual: Environmental Diseases of Aquatic Animals in Aquatic Systems www.merckvetmanual.com/exotic-and-laboratory-animals/aquatic-systems/environmental-diseases-of-aquatic-animals-in-aquatic-systems
    a dechlorinator specifically designed to deal with chloramines by also binding the ammonia byproduct.
    Checked 2026-10-11.

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