A healthy aquarium means healthy and happy fish. Pet Supply Outlet in Belmont, MA has all the tools and the devices to keep that tank in great shape. Our staff has the experience and knowledge to answer your questions about aquarium maintenance and help you select the best items to make the task a breeze.
Anybody can keep a clean and healthy fish tank. It's not a difficult task, but it does require regular attention and the right supplies. There are daily and weekly tasks along with the vital job of tank cleaning with partial water adjustments.
Every day, after you feed your fish, remove uneaten food after about 5 minutes. Also, check your fish to ensure they are healthy and are acting normally. Lastly, it's important to check the water temperature. Each week, check the pH, nitrite, nitrate, and ammonia levels. If it's a saltwater tank, check the salinity. Also, look at equipment such as lights and filters to see that everything is working properly.
How frequently should you clean the tank? How much of the water do you need to change? It depends on the dimension of the tank, the variety of fish, and whether it's saltwater. Normally, you need to swap out 10-20% of the water every one to three weeks.
Follow these steps in your routine cleaning:
Prepare replacement water. If you use tap water, use a water filter to eliminate toxic substances. For saltwater, you'll need special reverse osmosis/deionized water.
Unplug electrical components & remove large accessories.
Siphon water into a container. Siphon along the gravel to remove the waste that accumulates there. If you correctly regulate the flow with your thumb or a built-in regulator, waste will be sucked out and gravel will fall back into the tank.
Remove algae. Use an algae-cleaning tool to help.
Clean your filter. For filters such as a sponge, ceramic rings, and fiber, rinse them in the water you removed and quickly reinstall} them to prevent losing crucial microorganisms. Filters that contain carbon and various other absorbers will need to be frequently replaced.
Add the replacement water.
Clean your tank's outside with an appropriate cleaner and towel.
As you can see, the right devices and products are essential. Luckily, Pet Supply Outlet in Belmont, MA understands what's needed and is your one-stop-shop for all your tank maintenance needs. Call (617) 489-7387 or stop by our store today!