New Tank Question

[Mark Z.]

I am planning on setting up a new 55-gallon aquarium by the end of the month. I already have a 48-gallon. I have a Fluval 305 and Fluvial 406 on the 48-gallon. I also have a Fluvial 406 waiting for the 55-gallon.
 
Since the extra filter is just sitting there, can I put it on the 48-gallon and start cycling it, then transfer it to the 55-gallon when that is set up?
 
Would that mess up the balance in the 48-gallon? Would the bacteria crash when I transfer it to the empty 55-gallon? I plan on moving a few fish from the 48 gallon when the 55 is cycled. I have about 15 fish in the 48-gallon right now.
 
Or, should I just do a regular fishess cycle on the 55?
 
Thanks,
Mark

 

[Munroco]

It should work, you could also use the water from water changes in your 48 gal to fill up the 55gal.

 

[OldMan47]

Absolutely do that. With 2 filters on a tank I would probably look at moving one of them and keeping the new filter on the established tank. That way both tanks would have a mature filter on them.

 

[Mark Z.]

Cool!
 
Yes, I will probably fill the new tank half way with old water, essentially doing a 50% water change on both tanks. And yes, I'll run the new 406 in the old tank and swap out the old 406 for the new tank...why didn't I think of that? : )
 
Now, I just have to build a stand and run some electric!
 
Thanks!
Mark

 

[OldMan47]

Wait until you are ready to add the fish to make that filter swap. That way you start out more or less cycled.

 

[jag51186]

Is there a reason you have two filters on your 48? I run an 80 gallon tank with a single 406 and it has a decent fish load. Just asking, because you could potentially just run the 305 alone on the 48 gallon and not have to buy another filter.

 

[Mark Z.]

OK, I'll wait until I add some fish to put the filter on, thanks!
 
I have the two filters because I like to keep the water super clean! And, sometimes in the past I have pushed the stocking limit a little. I have a 406 and also a 305 for the 55-gallon. I bought them cheap on eBay, but need to buy a few parts...which makes them not so cheap after all! 
 
Mark

 

[jag51186]

OK, I'll wait until I add some fish to put the filter on, thanks!
 
I have the two filters because I like to keep the water super clean! And, sometimes in the past I have pushed the stocking limit a little. I have a 406 and also a 305 for the 55-gallon. I bought them cheap on eBay, but need to buy a few parts...which makes them not so cheap after all! 
 
Mark

 
Ah, I see. My water is crystal clear, but I don't think my tank is heavily stocked either, and I have a decent number of plants to help as well. More power to yuh!