Shifting My Tank, Quick Reply Needed Please

[JSmails]

Im moving my 80l tank to the other side of the room. If I get it to a third full I reckon 2 people can lift it. I have timed the move so that I can do a 50% water change, but my question is whether it is acceptable to remove a bucket full of water and the put that water back in 10 mins later once the move is made. I cant think of any problems but please tell me if this wrong as Im doing the move in a couple of hours. I figure the fish wont be stressed too much being left in the tank as we are only moving it 20 feet.

 

[Jeewhizz]

Take the fish out and put them in a bucket of water.

Remove the water, as moving the tank with even just the gravel can cause the bottom to crack.

Put as much water back into the tank - but NOT the water that the fish were in - this will be 'dirty' water as the fish tend to do a dump when stressed

Jee

 

[Paul_MTS]

If your doing a water change at the same time that will reduce the ammount of water you need to store.

But just drain as much of the water away into bucket so you can lift it, it's fine to put the same water back in after it's moved.

Be aware that a deep gravel bed will weigh suprisingly alot!

Remove all decorations and then it will be fine to leave your fish in.

 

[scubadoo]

As has been alluded to above, the issue is not whether or not you and your mate can physically lift the tank, its whether the glass can accept the additional deflection of being moved without a full support under the tank.

Empty out as much as you can to avoid overly stressing the glass.

 

[Mr.September15]

Why not just take everything out including the gravel/fish/water...Although I am afraid that it will cause a lot of stress to the fish...But its worth it when you dont have a cracked bottom and have to buy a new tank.

 

[JSmails]

Thanks for all the help guys. Ive done the move now and touch wood all seems ok. I removed all the decorations and got the tank down as low as possible. The move wasnt that far across the room so touch wood the tank withstood the rigours. All the fish are really active barring the SAE although hes always a bit dazed after a water change. Hopefully hell be fine. So thanks again.