Switching from Sand to Gravel

[Angry_Platy]

Well, my plants aren't as happy as they were in gravel and I basically hate the maintenance of sand. I also want a more serious planted tank with a cable substrate heater and all so hence I need to have gravel back (with added laterite)....

How do I go about removing the sand? Is it OK to use my python gravel van to suck all the sand up and let it drain down the sink or is there another way I should be doing it?

I know theres a pinned article on changing from gravel to sand but I am pretty sure theres not one for sand to gravel....

HELP!!!

 

[Polardbear]

Um, you could put it down the sink but you'd be risking some serious plumbing issues. Picturing p trap completely packed with sand and water backing up into sink and on to floor...and then having to explain to BF. I'd probably lower the water level and then scoop out the sand with a plastic bowl until most of it is out. Then once you get the tank empty enough that you can lift it, carry it outside and hose the remaining sand out onto the ground.

 

[Ben]

syphon most of it out, put that into a plastic bag, then that into a bin.
then scoop the rest of the sand up(shouldnt be alot) with a large net or a cup...or your hands.

Easy as pie.

DD

 

[OohFeeshy]

Yep, as above really, don't worry about some left in the bottom, you won't see it.

 

[Opcn]

use a small plastic shovel of some sort, possibly from a toy store for playing at the beech or in a sandbox. Dont run much sand down any drain other than your toilet.