Water Changes and Filter Maintenance

Regular tank maintenance will keep your livestock looking vibrant and lively, and keep your water chemistry levels within healthy ranges. We recommend that you change 10 to 20 percent of the aquarium water every 1 – 2 weeks. You may need to change more or less depending on water test results, how heavily the tank is stocked, and the needs of specific fish.
You'll also want to check your filter cartridges and chemical media to see if they need to be rinsed or replaced. You should never have to replace your biological media. A clean and properly cycled tank will keep your fish happy and healthy.

If you use a gravel siphon to remove the water from the tank, you can maximize waste removal by vacuuming the substrate to remove excess debris that settles there at the same time. Vacuum a different section of the substrate each time you do a water change to avoid removing too much beneficial bacteria.

Replace the water you remove with new water prepared as necessary. If you use water directly from the tap, you may need to add a dechlorinator or allow the water to sit for a day or two. Saltwater should be mixed in advance, 24hrs if possible, to make sure the salt is completely dissolved. Be sure the replacement water is close in temperature and chemistry before you add it to the tank to avoid shocking your stock.

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