water changes necessary?

[xkon]

So while I plan on doing weekly or biweekly water changes, my question is, if all parameters are in check is it necessary to do a water change.

For example, ammonia and nitrites are at 0, and you have a low level of nitrates, what is the benefit of doing a water change?

 

[reepher315]

Keeping nitrates and phosphates down keeps your algae in check

 

[tanksfishtank]

Some go without, but IME they are necessary to maintain/control nutrients and other vital levels.

 

[whosurcaddie]

Yes.

 

[lllesley]

So while I plan on doing weekly or biweekly water changes, my question is, if all parameters are in check is it necessary to do a water change.

For example, ammonia and nitrites are at 0, and you have a low level of nitrates, what is the benefit of doing a water change?

I asked the same question when i first started out.
I soon realized that it not only keeps nutrients under control & big 3 in order (mag alk cal ) but it replaces a lot of trace elements that we don't actually test for. If you look at the ingredients listed on the salt bags you will see a lot of others that we don't think of as important, but they are.
Hope this helps.