Aquarium Water Changing Tips And Guide

Change water varies depending on the type of aquarium you hold - tropical, cold water or marine - and if you use tap water or purified water. Changes in water are an essential part of keeping fish and, if done properly, can not be overstated. Remember that in nature, the greatest form of filtration is dilution, as waste products are dispelled by the immensity of the water body, and even the best filters will not replace nitrates and minerals essential to your aquarium.

Frequency

It is advisable to replace about 25 percent of the aquarium water per week, as this should help to maintain low nitrates. If you use tap water for the changes, test to make sure that the pH and hardness are grateful for your fish. Also check that the level of nitrate in tap water is sufficiently low. If nitrate is reading at 40 parts per million (ppm) or more, it could actually contribute to an increased level of nitrate in the main tank, and if so, you should consider to find other sources or water purifiers. If you have any doubt about the ability of your tap water, consult your local authority.

Tips: The most effective way to maintain a clean tank is combined with water filter change maintenance, wiping algae and gravel vacuuming.

Equipment

Set aside some clean buckets and tubes siphon especially for water changes and not use them for other purposes, such as washing the car. If you use large containers to store water, check that they are made from food-grade plastic, because some plastics May sure your fish to die if the leaching of chemicals into the water. Keep water stored in the dark to stop the proliferation of algae and posing an air stone into it to keep it fresh. If you use water by reverse osmosis, air a stone placed in it can help to maintain the pH stable. If left too long without ventilation, May become very acidic

Tip: A natural source of the tank water is rainwater. It is naturally soft and devoid of minerals, but should be filtered through carbon to remove all traces of pollutants. If you receive stormwater runoff from a roof, make sure the roof is made from a cleaning appropriate, inert material.

Dos water in the tank and Don'ts

Take note of the following items to help you avoid problems in your water-changing routine. Poor water changes May do more harm than good.

Do

* If you use purified water with chlorine and minerals removed, first add an addendum mineral essential to replace electrolytes, and then bring water to the appropriate temperature using a heater / thermostat and thermometer

* If you use tap water to bring the water up to the appropriate temperature using hot water from a kettle or using a heating alternative. Use a thermometer to check temperature is the same as that in the main aquarium.

* If you prepare the water for a reef aquarium, use only hot water to free copper. For this reason, the hot water tap if generally regarded as dangerous.

* Always dechlorinate the water before adding it to the main aquarium. The untreated water may kill beneficial bacteria on all surfaces, such as gravel and decorations, as well as in the filter.

Do not

* Add water that is too cold. It May source of stress and give your fish an outbreak of white spot.

* Add water that is too hot. It will have an impact on levels of oxygen in the tank and filter May kill bacteria.