How do you guys actually do water changes exactly?

[ProAquarist]

I have had all sorts of freshwater for a long time. I currently do very large weekly water changes, usually 80-90% depending on the tank. I drain, add Prime or Safe, and fill directly to the tank. I haven't had any issues with this method, even with stuff like discus. I get the temp pretty close, but I know it's not always perfect, but I don't have issues.

One of the biggest things holding me back from stingrays is that I can't imagine doing water changes like this on them. I think I would have to get a huge container to prep the water in so that it is heated and aerated so that all the chemistry is stabilized, any necessary off-gassing has occurred, etc. Am I correct in my apprehensiveness, or are any of you guys doing water changes on rays like I currently do them on my other freshwater tanks?

 

[Bigfishnut]

Just do a drip system. Run your drip off a home filtration system. I use a 25 psi regulator with a 1/4" nipple adapter and some airline tubing and an irrigation adjustable drip head

 

[ProAquarist]

So drain, then very slowly refill with unheated water?

 

[FreshyFresh]

I would just stick with your 80-90% method.

 

[Bigfishnut]

Drip system runs 24/7. Run an over flow on your sump to a drain.

 

[oldfish]

I do 25-35- water changes and refill with 56F well water dropping the temp near 70F. been doing this for years and had no problems from my rays or other fish

 

[Jimr]

I have had all sorts of freshwater for a long time. I currently do very large weekly water changes, usually 80-90% depending on the tank. I drain, add Prime or Safe, and fill directly to the tank. I haven't had any issues with this method, even with stuff like discus. I get the temp pretty close, but I know it's not always perfect, but I don't have issues.

One of the biggest things holding me back from stingrays is that I can't imagine doing water changes like this on them. I think I would have to get a huge container to prep the water in so that it is heated and aerated so that all the chemistry is stabilized, any necessary off-gassing has occurred, etc. Am I correct in my apprehensiveness, or are any of you guys doing water changes on rays like I currently do them on my other freshwater tanks?

I do the same as you - except maybe 60-70% water changes a week. Been doing that over 10 years no problems.

 

[rudy]

I havent dont a water change in 10 years at least. Get a drip system, it is life altering. It makes working on a 1000 gallon tank as easy as working on a 10 gallon tank

 

[Train]

iv been doing 60% to 70% weekly water changes with my rays for 3 years no problems and adding prime but everybody has there own method

 

[Charliea36]

I've been doing 40% water changes every 3 days. So far no problems.