No such thing as a stupid question! I got myself a python vacuum (around $30 - can’t link to it from mobile but I’ll update tomorrow). I then drain as much as possible to the last inch or so, and then I use a couple towels to soak up the rest. If there’s any residual vinegar, you’ll catch it when you cycle the tank. The python also makes water changes incredibly easy - I use the tank water for my plants, or it drains directly into the nearest tub or sink so less mess!
Edit: Python Vaccum
Side note- you should look into getting your dad a Python aquarium water changer. Hooks up to your faucet and can both empty and fill the tank for you. I got my dad one because he’s got a slipped disk in his back and couldn’t carry his buckets anymore.
it’s definitely not! that would be an interesting way to do a water change though 😂 for those interested here is a (non affiliated dont worry) link to the system. i refuse to use buckets unless its my nano under 10g tanks.
Okay, let me follow up with a couple of ideas.
First, check this out:
https://www.amazon.com/25-Foot-Python-Aquarium-Maintenance/dp/B000255NXC
This thing helped me for years with water changes. It's a marvel cleaning gravel of fish junk and when you refill, you just add the dechlorinator into the water as you start refilling and it'll do the job for you. If you keep a good habit of water changes then 10%-25% of the tank per week is more than enough and it won't impact your water quality with wild changes.
The other option is more complicated but easier in the end. If the tank is going to be close to someplace where you can keep a big tank of water, you can do water changes as follows. Use the python to clean the tank, then pump water from the secondary tank to the main tank. The second tank you use to age the water, dechlorinating over time.
This was what I did in my garage. I had my 180 with a huge plastic tank that was in the corner of the garage. I could do about 2/3rds of the tank at a time and since the water was aged, it didn't bother the fish. I can give you more details if you want.
In the end, a Python-like hose attached to the nearest bathroom is your best bet. Check your house water parameters for pH, chlorine, temperature, etc. and you'll know what you need to do to prep the water coming back from the hose into your tank.
For a 75 gallon tank I would NOT recommend using a bucket for water changes - unless you have all the time in the world.
Buy something like this. https://www.amazon.com/25-Foot-Python-Aquarium-Maintenance/dp/B000255NXC/ref=mp_s_a_1_3?crid=3GJEHY89LNUJ3&keywords=fish+tank+vacuum+python&qid=1653856053&sprefix=fish+tank+vacuum+python+%2Caps%2C231&sr=8-3 . Makes the job a snap and little chance of a mess. Also, if you are growing plants, I would suggest to not vacuum to well as poop also is fertilizer.
You can pour tap water straight in as long as tap water parameter isn't far too off, and then add dechlorinator in tank- I use python no spill and clean which adds tap water straight back in after syphoning out. I just add dechlorinator straight in.
Seachem PRIME will definitely help. The aquarium salt will come with directions on the box to maintain a low salinity. Freshwater fish can tolerate low salinity just fine. It even helps prevent mild parasites and bacteria that cannot tolerate the salt.
I cannot comment on the feelings of the fish. Right now, based on gulping and surface grazing, I would say they're at least uncomfortable.
This is the most recommended water changing vacuum tool: Python No Spill Clean and Fill Aquarium Maintenance System https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000255NXC/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_XVP3NFM9PG0X9DWNVCZF
You can also use a garden hose with seachem prime mixed into the water.
Do the best you can, but I don't feel confident reassuring you that two water levels per week might be enough. I went through a cycle crash a couple months ago. I had to water change sometimes twice per day.
I got a Python for my water changes, and it was a life changer! I’d honestly recommend one for any tank more than 20g. Well worth the price to no longer dread water change day
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000255NXC/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_GJ7DZY2QW6JVVCRNXERA
I wasn't sure what you meant by hose but if you haven't already, maybe look into getting a Python No Spill Clean and Fill. I haven't personally tried one but I've heard great things about them.
When I do bigger water changes I just add the dechlorinator to my tank before adding any new water, I haven't had any problems yet.
Also congratulations!
this has literally changed my life. Its pricey but it easily attaches directly to your sink and will siphon and refill your tank all in one go. Its absolutely the best.
You can use a python to change water. I prefer to use two buckets: one with clean water and one for dirty water. It makes things go a little faster and I use the dirty water for my plants later. I'll admit that the python is nice to have when I don't need to gravel vac, I need to do a larger water change, or when I'm just really lazy.
So I bought the 25 Foot - Python No Spill Clean... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000255NXC?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share To do water changes for my turtles tank. Unfortunately the faucet adapter it came with does not fit my sink, it's a bit too big. I went to a local hardware store but they didn't have the right adapter either. Can anyone give me an idea as to what adapter would fit my faucet?
I use a python hooked up to my kitchen sink. Best invention ever! Water changes are less than 15 min...about 7 min to drain, 7 min to fill. During this time I also scrub the glass and do any algae control. It's pretty efficient!
Unfortunately turtle poop is sometimes too big to be picked up by a gravel vacuum :( I use one too, the biggest one the pet store has, and it'll get little pieces but I still scoop up larger pieces (and shell scutes that have shed) with an old fish net. My gravel vac now is mostly used for emptying the tank into buckets. People recommend these for bucket-less easy water changes though.
And yep, I use sand! A little bit of sand has gotten into my filter but that's mostly when I'm too impatient to let the sand settle before turning the filter back on after cleanings. It's important when you first get sand to wash it really well in a bucket to rinse out all the finer particles ("dust") that don't settle quickly. If you rinse it well enough it won't cloud the tank except for a little while after first adding it. I keep my filter intake a few inches above the sand. A little bit of sand got into my filter's motor and I was able to get it out. I use Fluval and you can buy new parts for their filters, so if I broke the motor I'd have to only replace that instead of a whole new filter. I don't know about other brands, but that gave me a little peace of mind about the sand.
And yeah, turtles are little bulldozers!!
+1 for the Aqueon water changer! I have a very similar one in the Python https://www.amazon.com/25-Foot-Python-Aquarium-Maintenance/dp/B000255NXC/ref=sr_1_4?s=pet-supplies&ie=UTF8&qid=1516564854&sr=1-4&keywords=aquarium+water+changer - but holy cow did that make water changes SO much better! I now do minimal water changes for my Turtle tank (see my other comment here) but for my weekly Guppie farm tank water changes I couldn't ask for better!
Sure! Here you go! Pretty much just look up Gravel Vac Amazon and youll be good��
So useful to fill & drain buckets & swamp coolers that don't fit in the sink. I keep the short side permanently attached to the deep sink to quickly clean kegging equipment, get into fermenters, clean glass & growlers. I have even used it attached to the hot water heater to pasteurize cider.
I use a water change kit, like the Python. Or I'll put a bucket under my kitchen sink faucet and run the pump out of the bucket as the faucet fill it.
Its not too hard if you get something like this: https://www.amazon.ca/Python-25NS-25-Feet-Aquarium-Maintenance/dp/B000255NXC
It takes less than half an hour to change 50% of my 75 gallons, and most of it is me sitting on my couch watching TV trying not to forget I have it running.
Not to one up you, but your right.
I only use hose to rinse and wash. Anything that becomes beer is from Deer Park, until I get a whole house filter.
What I do recommend is this contraption
I have found so many good uses for this thing, but brewing seems to be where it just shines. Its great for cleaning in kegs, and other equipment.
It breaks in parts, so I use the short piece hooked up to the sink unless I need to siphon.
No problem! When you are ready for it, one of these is awwwwwsome: https://www.amazon.com/25-Foot-Python-Aquarium-Maintenance/dp/B000255NXC/ref=sr_1_1?s=pet-supplies&ie=UTF8&qid=1491410615&sr=1-1&keywords=python+gravel+vacuum . No more buckets!
> Do I need to invest in a hose to siphon the water out
If you are willing to spend a little extra, I would suggest getting a Python (https://www.amazon.com/25-Foot-Python-Aquarium-Maintenance/dp/B000255NXC/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1488477760&sr=8-1&keywords=python+water+changer) as opposed to just a regular hose. I use one for my 29 gallon and my daughter's 10 gallon and it super quick and easy.
Kinda silly really to stick your arms, hands and the whole tube into your tank each time you need to siphon. Clear tubing costs max $2 from any hardware store, get 8ish feet and cut it to size, make sure it's clear and siphoning is a breeze. The key is to keep and eye on the water in the hose and stop sucking when it crests the top lip of your tank.
Also for the lazy people or those who have lots of tanks, I eventually bought a Python system and it was a godsend, no more buckets ever! https://www.amazon.com/25-Foot-Python-Aquarium-Maintenance/dp/B000255NXC
I just switched to using a python and I love it. No buckets, no manual syphons, just hook it up to your sink and follow the directions.
As far as water changes go I would buy a Python. If you rate the greatest inventions of all time, the Python would be in the top 5. You can buy one off of Amazon here. Your back will be glad you did.
When you are using the Python just put the bottom part almost in your substrate and move it around. I would also hit my plants with it. You will be surprised how much junk comes out.
Get a python. As for pre-treating it, remember that your bacteria lives in the filter - not in the water column (and very little in the substrate). So as long as you turn off the filter before adding chlorinated water to the tank, you should be good. Just turn off the filter, siphon out your tank (with a long enough hose, you can just let it drain out the front door or a window - no buckets), fill the water back up with the python, treat the water in the tank with some dechlor, then turn the filter back on.
How far from a sink is it? My husband uses one of these to run warm tap water to a basement aquarium and it works like a charm.
> I swear I remember reading somewhere that the water conditioner and stress coat are intended to be used hand-in-hand, but for the life of me I can't find anything about it now. I'll stop using them together. Hopefully it hasn't had any negative effects on the fish or water.
I think it's possible they used to make it seperately; but don't quote me on that. The modern version works as a dechlorinator; so you don't need both. Fortunately water conditioners are pretty safe. It would require a massive overdose to cause any problems.
The dosing the whole tank bit refers to people who fill their tank straight from the tap via something like a python (which, if you're getting a 55, I highly recommend. a 25% WC is about 12 trips with a big bucket on a tank that size).
What you're doing is fine. Although like I said, water conditioners take a lot to overdose; so you don't have to be super precise about it (it's also hard to underdose; because the dosage instructions work to neutralize a very high chlorine residual). So long as you're not overdosing by more than about 5x you're well within the safe area.
It must be pretty fast acting, I was worried it'd be hard in the fish. I live in Canada so idk about buying stuff online.. Popular sites like liveaquaria don't even ship across the border.
If I can't find anything near me, I'll see about ordering off plantedaquarium.
Edit: plantedaquarium redirected me to Arizona Aquarium Group or something and when I looked them up the reviews were horribly so..idk.
http://www.amazon.ca/Python-25NS-25-Feet-Aquarium-Maintenance/dp/B000255NXC/ref=sr_1_1?s=pet-supplies&ie=UTF8&qid=1426085439&sr=1-1&keywords=python Is this the python siphon you meant?
I use the Python, I like it a lot and it's not hard to use Python
25 Foot - Python No Spill Clean and Fill Aquarium Maintenance System https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B000255NXC/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_5XWZ78QSKHZWW7W2EE9F?psc=1
I also bought the hook that goes over the tank edge. I don’t use the gravel vac.
So I use https://www.amazon.com/25-Foot-Python-Aquarium-Maintenance/dp/B000255NXC/ref=mp_s_a_1_3?dchild=1&keywords=Python+Water+Changer&qid=1610348617&sr=8-3 to clean, but more importantly fill my fish tank with water. Pretty much works like a hose, pressure can be adjusted by how much you turn your sink on and there's a valve that can stop the water flow as you walk to the end to water. That would probably work well.
Or, you could make an adult version of https://i.pinimg.com/236x/66/a5/8b/66a58b7eb253cd76bbd02c15b1b3d16b--mud-kitchen-kitchen-ideas.jpg which is a kids mud kitchen, which is a lot like a potting bench and use a five gallon bucket or whatever, and just fill the "sink" with water and bottom water everything there. Then you'll also have a cute multi-functional potting bench to boot.
I use a syphon hose. Right here on amazon
I would like to add that I live in Spokane,WA. And use tap water every time.
After every water change I treat my water with Stress Coat
I own 1 Oscar, 1 Red Jewel Cichlid, 1 Convict and 1 Pleco in my 75g.
As far as moving the fish, nothing changes when you go bigger. The steps listed above are perfect. My best advice is, if the fish store can hold the fish for you until you set up your tank at home, do that. Other than that you're just at a race against time from the moment the fish go into the bags. You benefit from being close to your LFS, so don't worry! And post pics when its done!
Ok this is assuming that budget is not limiting. These are the best of the best:
Water changes - Python Water Changer (https://www.amazon.com/25-Foot-Python-Aquarium-Maintenance/dp/B000255NXC/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1489726985&sr=8-1&keywords=python+water+changer) When pouring water back into your tank just use a smaller container or if you get the above mentioned Python, just don't turn your water up that high
Get some Seachem Prime (https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00025694O/ref=sr_ph_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1489727152&sr=sr-1&keywords=seachem+prime) this is the be-all-end-all to water conditioners. Read here if you want to oogle: http://www.seachem.com/prime.php
There are tons of heaters on the market. for a 10g make sure you get a 100w. This is not something that is "written in stone" but here is my take on it: The only danger with a higher wattage heater is the idea that if it malfunctions it will fry your fish faster. That may be true, but only to a minimal extent. The amount of time it takes a 50w heater to fry everything compared to a 100w is negligible as if your fish are cooking, you aren't going to notice unless you are standing right there looking at the thermometer anyway. Further, the higher the wattage on the heater, the less it has to work to keep the water warm. Heaters are 100% necessary for Betta keeping. Here are the ones I am using and loving: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B006MMJ8EE/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&psc=1 I use the same one in my 10 and my 20 gallon tanks with no issues whatsoever.
For filters you have many many options and it just depends on your preference. If you want bubbles a simple sponge filter will suffice but the maintenance on them can sometimes be more than they are worth. Personally, I would recommend THIS: https://www.amazon.com/Classic-External-Canister-Filter-Gallons/dp/B002DZNM4G/ref=sr_1_1?s=pet-supplies&ie=UTF8&qid=1489727454&sr=1-1&keywords=eheim+2211 if you want to be a boss, but if you just want some badass filtration with a controllable output, get something like this: https://www.amazon.com/AquaClear-30-Power-Filter-Listed/dp/B00020SVDG/ref=sr_1_1?s=pet-supplies&ie=UTF8&qid=1489727476&sr=1-1&keywords=aquaclear+30 I run an eheim canister on my 20g and these aquaclear 30s on everything else. They are great and run relatively quietly if they are setup correctly (The canister filter is near silent no matter what). And the current is totally manageable on both.
Do NOT stress about testing your water. The kit is so easy to use. Each bottle tells you exactly how much water to test, and how much of each reagent to put in. It is ABC easy.
The extras that have made my fish life 1000x easier:
Pack of digital thermometers- https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01N9663GI/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o04_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1 . I recommend a few of them because it is nice to be able to check your water temps as you are preparing your change-out water.
Pack of syringes for dosing chemicals, water conditioner, doing water tests, etc. I can't stress how awesome these are to have: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01CFJ51X4/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&psc=1
Timers for your lights: Planted tanks need consistent photo-periods. Fish also appreciate consistency. https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01MA456OZ/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o03_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
A great source to buy your plants: Unless you have a super reliable local fish store you should just buy on Amazon. I have had stellar results with a few companies. This is one of them: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B009IW30I0/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o02_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
A turkey baster: For cleaning up leftover food and spot cleaning your tank :) https://www.amazon.com/Good-Cook-11-5-Turkey-Baster/dp/B004MF22M8/ref=sr_1_4?s=kitchen&ie=UTF8&qid=1489728027&sr=1-4&keywords=turkey+baster
Finally, like it has been mentioned. Don't Stress! There is a great community here to help you work through whatever obstacles you might encounter. Give it your best and ask for help when you think you could use it!
Hahaha you're fine. But wow, fluval stratum and live plants from the very start. Already jumping ahead of the curve.
From the sound of things, it's a PITA to fill the tank because I've done something similar. Carrying a heavy bucket back and forth five times and stacking books for a siphon to work does not sound fun. There's no way around having to carry a bucket around, so equipment is kind of a must for efficient and easy water changes. Like the other user mentioned, I HIGHLY recommend a Python water changer. It can directly connect to a faucet and drain/fill the aquarium. I'll compile a shopping list from Amazon for you.
Either a 25 ft Python system or a 50 ft system depending on how far your faucet/tap is from the aquarium.
A Python Aquarium Hook for whenever you're filling a tank. I highly recommend this because the siphon end can very easily fall out while you're refilling the tank, especially when there is no lid.
A 400GPH submersible water pump. You can buy a different pump, but I find that 400GPH is best for both my 36 and 65 gallon tanks (I also used it for a 29g before upgrading to the 36). It's not too much power, but partially drains my tanks in a timely manner. The reason why I recommend a pump is because the python needs continuous running tap water to create a vacuum in the hose; this way, it sucks water out of the tank - this is an enormous waste of water. This pump can feed aquarium water directly into the hose and into the drain.
I forgot to mention, check to see if your faucet/tap can attach the python's brass adapter. It's uncommon for a tap to be incompatible. I'll post demonstration pics if you need help with that.
If you have questions or concerns, feel free to tell me or ask anything. If you buy the things I suggested, I can make a step-by-step guide if you desire.
Hey! I’m sorry you’re having some troubles with getting your planted tank going, & I can totally empathize; it took me a few tries!
To start off, I would recommend using the Python No Spill System for your water changes, since you have a larger tank size! You have the patience of a saint to have been doing bucket changes haha 😅 This system uses the suction created by a water faucet to quickly drain/siphon a tank.
As for your plants, what substrate do you have them planted in? I recommend the CaribSea Black substrate. I use this in my tank, & it’s a very lovely color. Everything cycled easily upon setup & my plants have been doing well. You may want to adjust the amount of light your setup is getting if you are having issues with algae. I have my lights set on a timer for ~12 hrs on/off. If your lights are on for too long, you may be burning the leaves & promoting excess algae growth. I personally use the NiCrew LED Light, but here’s a great guide on full-spectrum lights for planted aquariums.
Be sure to watch that you’re planting your plants correctly! Plants like the amazon sword & the jungle val should do just fine planted directly in the substrate, but be careful to not cover their crowns. The crown is the lighter yellow part of the plants, close to the roots. This may stunt their growth or kill them. Plants like the Java Fern will need to be anchored to pieces of driftwood, as planting them in substrate may kill them. Gently attach them using thread or fishing fire to driftwood, & they will be able to anchor & grow from there.
Adding CO2 helps with plant growth greatly as well, although it can endanger any fish you’re keeping. I would suggest adding an air stone as well, so that gases are more evenly distributed throughout your tank.
That is not a Python. That is Aqueon's knock off version. This is an actual Python branded one... https://www.amazon.com/25-Foot-Python-Aquarium-Maintenance/dp/B000255NXC/
I have been using my Python for decades now.
It's called a Python
https://www.amazon.ca/Python-25NS-25-Feet-Aquarium-Maintenance/dp/B000255NXC# This is the Brand Name python
https://www.amazon.ca/hygger-Bucket-Free-Aquarium-Cleaner-Maintenance/dp/B08CXT5LP9 This is the one I use!
You will need to find an adaptor so it can attach to your sink; but it makes water changes waaaaay easier!
Other comment got it on point. Here's your miracle solution: Python.
https://www.amazon.com/25-Foot-Python-Aquarium-Maintenance/dp/B000255NXC
If you still want to do a goldfish and want to lessen the amount of work required with that level of water change, look into getting a Python water changing system - https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000255NXC?psc=1&ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_product_details
This thing saves me so much time on my 75-gallon tank and it's super easy to use.
I got a Python.. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000255NXC/
I got a Python.. https://www.amazon.com/ /dp/B000255NXC/
25 Foot - Python No Spill Clean and Fill Aquarium Maintenance System https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000255NXC/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_VP9H8WCDSQ2A406E6GPJ?psc=1
Best creation ever
I dunno if you use tap water, but this thing has made changing my aquariums 1000x easier
https://www.amazon.com/25-Foot-Python-Aquarium-Maintenance/dp/B000255NXC
Get a python water change siphon.
Python No Spill Clean and Fill Aquarium Maintenance System https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000255NXC/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_glt_i_HBZE71BYXG9VTPJCXS26
Get a python siphon with a tube long enough to get to a sink…
https://www.amazon.com/25-Foot-Python-Aquarium-Maintenance/dp/B000255NXC/
A python? It hooks up to any faucet.
Python No Spill Clean and Fill Aquarium Maintenance System
Or you can you a water diffuser like a ceramic plate or a 3 d printed clip on aquarium filling aid
They do, and that's exactly what I'd suggest OP get.
25 Foot - Python No Spill Clean and Fill Aquarium Maintenance System https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000255NXC/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_fabc_XG8WFb1808XAY You will never look back.
Just look up the python water change system on Google or Amazon and then search for knockoffs. For a few bucks more you can also get their hook add-on and water changes become hands free.
This sucker!
Get a python 40ft vacuum hose! These things save a lot of time and makes water changes convenient and easy.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000255NXC/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_ZXOlFb4SZDRXF
Save your back. python
I think fish can be a great pet, but they can be a lot of work if you have a less than an ideal set up, and even an ideal set up they can be work and can be costly. You have not mentioned what type of fish they are or how you are housing them. I have enjoyed minnows in my large aquarium, with a very good filter, though they were food for the turtle in the aquarium. It was harder to enjoy the guppies in my smaller aquarium (also food) since they breed quickly and required a lot of cleaning, even with a good filter.
If you keep them my advice is a largish aquarium (more work to clean, but needs it less often), a good large canister filter (rated for at least twice the size of the aquarium maybe more), do not have the aquarium in a sunny spot (less cleaning), and buy a Python No Spill Clean and Fill. https://www.amazon.com/25-Foot-Python-Aquarium-Maintenance/dp/B000255NXC
It might be the set up that does not inspire joy, or it might be the fish. Sometimes teachers have aquariums in their class rooms; that might be another option for getting rid of them.
Oh man.. you need a Python and whatever adapters you want
Here is a link for a lot of videos on what it does
I have one for my 12 long and only use it to fill. Its worth the setup for a 5 gallon water change since Im not dumping or splashing water around the tank
I did a DIY sump filter that you can find plans for all over the place.
I have a siphon overflow on my aquarium with a small pump attached to it to prevent losing it's siphon or restarting it after power failure/water changes.
The water flows into the top draw of filter floss for filtering, then trickles into the second drawer over top of plastic scrubbies and finally into the the third drawer where it is filled with lava rocks that are permanently submerged in water. A water pump returns the water to the top of the tank have the process repeat itself over and over.
I further ran a small water line (think freezer ice maker water line) that constantly tops off the tank from evaporation and cycles the water to some extent to the point where I do water changes about every two-three months. In the second photo of the sump you can see an overflow tube that takes any excess water down to my basement to a drain there. Water changes every couple months isn't so much a necessity as the water clarity and pollutants really don't change in that time frame but I do it for peace of mind/get the gunk the guppies aren't eating off the bottom.
For water changes I can't recommend the python enough. It is crazy how easy this has made water changes for my aquariums.
Yes, people are talking about the Python Water Changer. It lets you siphon and refill using your faucet. https://www.google.com/url?sa=t&source=web&rct=j&url=https://www.amazon.com/25-Foot-Python-Aquarium-Maintenance/dp/B000255NXC&ved=0ahUKEwjekfPjiILWAhXK7SYKHQazDHwQFghjMAA&usg=AFQjCNFngql1jdu7NGA5zGtriDUAK1mLIw
These things are amazing.
(corporate shill here btw)
So, ich hab noch mal ein paar Fragen:
1.) Kannst du einen Mulmsauger empfehlen, der auch für Wasserwechsel taugt (so wie der hier z. B.)?
2.) Für das Einfahren werde ich ja Ammoniak brauchen. Wäre diese 25% Ammoniak Lösung unbedenklich? Die restlichen 75% sind bloß Wasser.
3.) Ich hatte ja eigentlich vor mit so 10x Garnelen anzufangen. Aber nach dem Einfahren werde ich ja Tiere brauchen, die genügend Ammoniak produzieren, um die Bakterien am Leben zu halten, korrekt? Garnelen scheinen aber nur eine sehr geringe Bio-Last zu verursachen (weniger sogar als manche Schnecken). Heißt das dann es bleiben eben nur so viele Bakterien am Leben, wie die Garnelen Bio-Last produzieren? Müsste ich weiter Ammoniak hinzugeben? Oder sollte ich vielleicht doch einfach gleich mit genügend Fischen anfangen? Etwas verwirrend das ganze...
Python is a brand that makes a system that connects directly to your sink and allows you to drain and fill directly connected to the sink, no buckets.
https://www.amazon.com/25-Foot-Python-Aquarium-Maintenance/dp/B000255NXC
No problem, let me know if you have questions.
I want you to keep in mind you will need to be doing regular water changes. It's extremely important when you stock heavy. About 2 x 25% a week or 1 x 50% a week. I personally do 1 50% water change each week because it's easier for me, and my fish are used to it.
If you do not already have a Python hose, I'd recommend you get one. When you have to carry buckets, it gets old fast, and it makes us more likely to neglect the tank. I carried buckets for 20 years. https://www.amazon.com/25-Foot-Python-Aquarium-Maintenance/dp/B000255NXC/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1477078901&sr=8-1&keywords=python+water+changer
In addition to not break the bank on water conditioner on such frequent water changes, I suggest Seachem Safe. 1kg of it will treat 260,000 gallons! I add 1/8 teaspoon for a 50% water change. Super economical. https://www.amazon.com/Seachem-116038706-Safe-1-Kilo/dp/B003JW2G44/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1477079059&sr=8-2&keywords=seachem+safe
Is it possible through a series of adapters to connect this kind of sink hose to a garden hose? I'm trying to connect this kind of sink to this product:
http://www.amazon.com/25-Foot-Python-Aquarium-Maintenance/dp/B000255NXC
I'm in the final stages of planning/buying my loop.
But now that you mention it I totally want to try using this tool I have for my aquarium to assist in suction.
That's called a faucet.
You can look into a python system. It uses the faucet. Here is one on Amazon. https://www.amazon.com/Python-Aquarium-Maintenance-System-50-Feet/dp/B000255NXC/147-5731642-4011262