Water Changes

[GUB]

A real beginner set of questions on water changes here, so any input appreciated.

1. How often should I change water and what %age of the water should I be changing at any one time (190l tank)

2. Do you add the fresh water straight from the tap and then add the dechlorinator to the tank, or should you pre-mix the 'fresh' water with dechlorinator before adding?

3. Should you do a change before adding more fish to your tank?

Thanks

 

[Captain Retardo]

Ideally you should change the water 1 a week no more than %30 of it, but it depends on your stocking level, if you are understocked you could easily get away with 1 water change every 2 or 3 weeks, if you are over stocked you have to do more frequent water changes.

You put dechlorinator in the tap water, then add it to the tank

I'm not sure about the last question, maybe someone more experienced could help you with that.

Good Luck!

 

[@ombomb]

When it comes to adding new fish to the tank, the last thing you want is a sudden change in the water chemistry. As such it's best to do the water change a day or two before adding any new fish IMO.

 

[freddyk]

1. Different people have different methods. About 25% once per week is great, but many find they do just fine bi-weekly. You'll get the hang of it once you start.

2. You can pre-mix or you can add it to the tank before filling it with water, which is especially useful if you use a python hose. Conditioner works instantly as it comes into contact with the water so there's no waiting period necessary.

3. It really doesn't matter, but one thing for certain is that water changes don't hurt.

 

[Captain Retardo]

GUB, you would wait until you see your nitrate levels go high and you can base that on your water changes.

Example:

after 1 week and 3 days your nitrate level is dangerous, then you must change the water every 1 week and 2 days, or 1 week and 1 day!

 

[FBF]

personally i change 30% weekly, this will remove growth inhibiting hormones, keep the fish healthy and illness free.

i would do this no matter what stcoking level you are at. its only a good thing for the fish to do a water change, they thrive on it.

one bit of advise i would give you is to never exceed 50% water changes unless its an emergency.