Most pet stores sell ammonia test kits. These kits check the total ammonia levels (which includes both ammonia and ammonium). The problem with this is that the tests do not distinguish between the two distinct ammonia levels, meaning you may not be able to accurately assess how toxic the water is.  As a general rule, if your tank is established (meaning it's been inhabited and has active bacterial colonies), you should not be able to detect any ammonia with a standard kit. If these tests indicate a measurable level of ammonia and you know there is already a healthy bacterial colony and a lack of organic matter, it's most likely a problem with your filter. Your tank's pH can directly affect the ammonia levels in the water. By measuring the pH levels on a regular basis, you'll help ensure that ammonia levels are not toxic.  The pH of a body of water affects how much ammonia is ionized versus how much remains un-ionized. You'll still need to treat the water beyond adjusting the pH, as acidifying the water will not actually break down the ammonia that's already present. Depending on when you test your tank's water, you might be getting an artificially-high reading. The best time to test the water would probably be right before feeding, as new food has not yet broken down in the water.  Ammonia levels reach their peak approximately 90 minutes after your fish have been fed. Testing the water shortly after your fish have eaten (and are producing waste) can give you an inaccurately-high reading of ammonia levels.

Summary: Buy a standard test kit. Measure the water's pH. Test the water at the right time.


The ideal location for your date will be a public space close to either her residence or yours. A familiar setting will help your date feel more comfortable around you. In addition, such a location makes home an accessible destination.  Be proactive in selecting the location. She’ll appreciate not having to do all the work. Inform her of what you’ll do during the date before you meet her. Dinner and a movie does work, but it’s better to choose a cheap, fun activity such as taking a walk, cooking together, going bowling, or going to karaoke. An energetic activity removes the pressure to talk for several hours, helps her associate the date with positive emotions and memories, and creates acceptable physical contact. If you do go out for drinks or dinner, try not to make it seem like an interview. Sit next to her instead of across from her. Good conversation is necessary in any date. Take time when you can to show who you are. Try to forget to think about how well the date is going or how to sell yourself as a partner. Instead, speak to her as you would a friend. Build a connection by sharing your life, your interests, and your goals with enthusiasm. One strategy is to reveal an appropriate vulnerability in an amusing way, such as discussing a funny but impactful story from childhood, something you don’t do well now, or a fear you have. Obviously, you need to offer her the opportunity to feel accepted and excited by you too. Start off with general questions like where she’s from or what she studied in school. Progress into more personal or unusual questions, such as what music she likes, her ambitions, or what she’d do if she won the lottery.  Listen to her answers without judgment. Don't ridicule, no matter what you think. Turn off your phone or leave it at home.

Summary: Decide on a nearby location. Choose a fun activity. Share yourself. Listen to her.


Tufted rugs are held together by a layer of latex glue that secures the tufts and prevents them from falling out. If your rug is particularly old, this layer of glue will show signs of cracking and crumbling, meaning that the tufts are no longer secure. If you notice patches on the underside of your rug that are missing glue, be extra careful when cleaning that portion of the rug. Being too aggressive will lead to fibers falling out and the creation of bare patches.
Summary: Check the underside for peeling.