System shut down for three months but wondering if I need to cycle it again

[Michael Welber]

I'm restarting my aquaponics system (I live in the FL Keys) and wonder if I need to cycle it again. I added ammonia three times but no ammonia appears in a water test. No Nitrite too but there is about .25 Nitrate. I wonder if it's already cycled and I can add fish again. Any ideas on this? I hate to keep adding ammonia (though I guess the fish would anyway). 

[Alex Veidel]

How long are you waiting to check your ammonia levels after you add it?

[Michael Welber]

A day. BTW, the system is four years old. 

[Alex Veidel]

And when you added ammonia, you added 2-4ppm worth?

[Michael Welber]

Yes I did. 

[Alex Veidel]

Sounds to me like you should be good to go then.

[Michael Welber]

that's what I think too. Thanks for replying! Ordering my fish now. 

[Alex Veidel]

What kind of fish are you going with this time? I've got some channel catfish that will be ready for pickup on Friday :)

[Michael Welber]

I live in the Keys. Where are you? I'm planning, as usual, to have tilapia. 

[Alex Veidel]

I'm in Illinois about 1 hour west of Chicago.

[Michael Welber]

Why don't I just drive on up... :)

Thanks for the offer anyway. Tilapia fingerlings will be delivered tomorrow.