Step by Step How to Clean a Dirty Fish Tank
The Best Way to Care for an Aquarium and Increase Water Quality
Jul 1, 2009
The average fish tank must be cleaned at least once every two weeks depending upon its size and contents. One can usually tell that his or her fish tank needs to be cleaned by the build-up of algae on the glass. A little bit of algae is healthy; however, when a tank is seemingly infested with algae it will eventually suffocate the fish.
Supplies Needed for Fish Tank Cleaning:
It is necessary to have an algae scrubbing pad for the interior surfaces of the tank. It is vital that the scrubber be manufactured solely for use in a fish tank to prevent contamination by harmful chemicals.
A siphon hose of any quality is also an essential piece of equipment to use while cleaning the fish tank. With your help, the siphon hose will filter through the gravel on the bottom of the tank and remove debris.
Every other time the average fish tank is cleaned it is essential to change the tank’s filter medium. This will ensure proper water quality and prevent the tank from becoming filthy.
Fresh water amounting to forty percent or less of the entire contents of the fish tank will be required for the average change. Be sure to use a product which removes the harmful chemicals in tap water and prepares it to be healthfully introduced to the tank.
Step by Step Instructions for Cleaning the Tank:
- Begin by removing all of the non-living decorations you have in your fish tank and setting them into a bath of warm soapy water. Allow these decorations to soak while you execute the following steps.
- When all of the decorations have been removed, carefully scrub off the algae that has adhered itself to the tank walls. Take the time to remove all of the algae and be careful not to harm your fish as they are often curious to explore the pad.
- Grab the siphon hose and a large container to empty the dirty water into. An unoccupied garbage can is a great item to use here. Use the siphon hose to suck up the waste and debris that is trapped in the gravel of the fish tank. Watch the water level and be sure not to remove more than will be replaced.
- After the tank is siphoned, use the dirty water to water any plants around the house or simply pour it down the drain. Next, return to the soapy bath of decorations and thoroughly scrub and rinse the pieces by hand. Be sure to rinse the decorations under cold water until absolutely no soap suds appear.
- While the tank is only sixty percent of the way full, decorate the aquarium with the newly cleaned decorations. Be sure that they are securely anchored by the gravel before slowly refilling the tank with fresh water.
- Once the tank is completely full and the decorations are in their place, change the filter medium to ensure maximum cleanliness.
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