Changing Substrate

Lokemer · Dec 21, 2009

Going from gravel to sand in my 30g, i think looking at the disgusting algae growth on the gravel made me do it. Since my tank is empty should i get rid of all my water from the tank then put sand in it then fill it again? Or just leave the water in? Any other tips you guys have for using sand as a substrate as i've never done it before! I'm so excited :shout:

OldMan47 · Dec 21, 2009

Wash the sand well before you even consider putting it in the tank. I would expect to to be easier to do the change when the tank is empty, it would also give you a chance to rinse it out well.

mattlee · Dec 21, 2009

if the tank is empty then i would remove everything and start from scratch. give the empty tank a good scrub using just water then wash the sand in a bucket to remove any dust/dirt etc etc then add to the tank. when enough sand is added for your requirements place a plate on top of the sand and fill with water directing the water onto the plate and not into the sand, this will stop thw sand getting all stirred up and save on settling time. if you want plants then a deeper layer of sand is needed for the plants to root in, if not then an inch is possibly enough.
when half full of water add any ornaments/bogwood etc you have then fill to the level desired with water. dont have your filter inlet too close to the sand as it may suck it in and damage your filter over time and obviously you will lose sand from the tank.
when you do your water changes just stir the sand to remove any unwanted built up gasses that will form under it as this can harm the fish if left too long. alot of people use trumpet snails with sand as they dig into it turning it over and preventing gasses building up but i would still give it a stir as they cant do all of it for you..... just be aware that thes snails will breed like rabbits so dont go mad and add loads as you will soon be pulling them out.
when cleaning the surface of sand its best to use a length of hose and syphon as normal but swirl it around about an inch above the sand this will pick up any poo and uneaten food etc. dont get too close as you will suck up the sand from the tank.
hope this helps :good: