Step 1: Preparation
The first step in cleaning your aquarium is to be thoroughly prepared. Ensure to have all the necessary supplies and tools readily available. These include an algae scraper, a bucket, a hose, a clean towel, a clean sponge, a testing kit, and a water conditioner. Prepare the water that you will use to replace the aquarium water. Tap water is ideal, but you should dechlorinate it using a water conditioner to remove chlorine and other harmful chemicals. If possible, use water that is around the same temperature as the aquarium water to prevent stressing your fish.
Step 2: Remove Dead Plant and Debris
Remove any dead leaves, uneaten food, and other debris that may have accumulated in the aquarium. Using a net, remove any uneaten food, dead plants, and dead fish. These debris can decompose in the aquarium and produce harmful toxins that can be detrimental to your fish’s health.
Step 3: Clean the Aquarium Glass
Use an algae scraper to remove any algae that may have grown on the aquarium . Be gentle when scrapping the glass to avoid scratching it and harming your fish. Clean the aquarium walls, gravel, and any ornaments using a sponge and warm water. Avoid using soap or detergents as they can be harmful to your fish. Rinse the sponge with clean water periodically to ensure you don’t transfer any dirt and debris back into the aquarium.
Step 4: Siphon the Gravel
Siphon the gravel at the bottom of the aquarium to remove any dirt, debris, or fish waste that may have accumulated. Using the siphon hose, start at the top of the gravel and move it down into the gravel, sucking up any debris along the way. Be careful when suctioning the gravel not to disturb the fish too much. Siphon at least a quarter of the total volume of the aquarium, but don’t suck out all the water as it can disturb the balance of your aquarium’s ecosystem.
Step 5: Refill the Aquarium
Once you’ve removed any debris and siphoned the gravel, it’s time to replace the aquarium water. Add the dechlorinated water that you had prepared earlier to the aquarium. Don’t add the water too quickly as it can stress your fish. Instead, add it gradually while using a water testing kit to monitor the water parameters. Ensure the ammonia, nitrite, and nitrate levels are within the suitable range to maintain your fish’s health.
Step 6: Reintroduce Your Fish
After cleaning the aquarium and refilling it with dechlorinated water, it’s time to reintroduce your fish. Gradually add your fish back into the aquarium, giving them the time to adjust to the new water conditions. Avoid overcrowding the aquarium by adding too many fish at once.
Conclusion
Cleaning your aquarium is an essential task that should be done regularly to maintain the overall health and well-being of your fish. While it may seem daunting to clean your aquarium with fish inside, it is a straightforward and simple process that you can easily learn. By following these six simple steps, you can keep your aquarium clean and your fish healthy. Remember always to monitor the water quality and temperature to ensure your fish are living in an environment that’s healthy and ideal for their growth and development.