Water Changes: Sustaining Your Aquarium’s Health

In the world of aquarium keeping, regular water changes are a key practice to maintain a healthy, thriving tank. Water changes help control pollutants, replenish essential minerals and nutrients, and stabilize pH levels. Let’s dive into the process and benefits of water changes.

While your filtration system removes solid waste, it cannot completely get rid of dissolved substances like ammonia, nitrates, and phosphates. Here’s where water changes come in:

• Eliminate Pollutants: Regular water changes help remove these dissolved pollutants before they reach harmful levels.
• Restore Minerals and Nutrients: Over time, essential minerals and trace elements deplete. Water changes replenish these elements.
• Maintain pH Balance: Without water changes, the pH can gradually decrease due to the build-up of organic acids.

A general rule is to change 10-20% of your tank water weekly. However, the frequency and volume can vary depending on factors like tank size, livestock load, and feeding schedule.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to performing a water change:

1. Prepare New Saltwater: Using reverse osmosis/de-ionized (RO/DI) water and marine salt mix, prepare new saltwater at least 24 hours before the water change. This allows the salt to fully dissolve and the water to stabilize.
2. Match the Parameters: Ensure the new water matches the temperature, salinity, and pH of your aquarium.
3. Remove Old Water: Use a siphon to remove the old water. Aim the siphon at the substrate to remove detritus and uneaten food.
4. Add New Water: Slowly add the new water to your aquarium. Avoid disturbing the substrate or decorations.

• Use a quality water testing kit to monitor your water parameters.
• Never change all the water at once, as it can shock your fish and disrupt the beneficial bacteria.
• Use a water conditioner if you’re using tap water to neutralize chlorine and chloramines.

Regular water changes might seem like a chore, but they are the backbone of maintaining a healthy aquarium. At The Reef’s Edge, we’re here to help you keep your aquatic environment thriving. Dive in, and happy fishkeeping!