- Determine how much water needs to be changed: As a general rule, it's recommended to change 10-25% of the water in your aquarium each week. The exact amount will depend on the size of your tank, the number of fish and other aquatic creatures, and other factors such as the presence of live plants.
- Gather supplies: You'll need a bucket or container for the old water, a water conditioner to treat the new water, and a siphon to remove the old water from the tank.
- Remove the old water: Use the siphon to remove the old water from the tank and place it into a bucket or container. Be careful not to disturb the gravel or other substrate in the tank, as this can release trapped waste back into the water.
- Fill the tank with treated water: Fill the tank with the new water and add the water conditioner to remove any harmful chemicals and neutralize any chlorine or other contaminants. Let the water sit for at least 15 minutes before adding it to the tank.
- Add the new water to the tank: Slowly pour the new water into the tank, being careful not to disturb the gravel or other substrate.
- Check the water parameters: After the water change, it's a good idea to check the pH, ammonia, nitrite, and nitrate levels in the water to make sure they are within the appropriate range for your fish and other aquatic creatures.
Remember, regular water changes are a critical part of maintaining a healthy and thriving aquarium. By following these steps, you'll help to provide your fish and other aquatic creatures with a clean and healthy environment to live in.