Yeah, sounds like you just need to change a couple of things to make the hobby enjoyable again. There's always a solution to make things easier.
I've never felt like giving up the hobby... I'd miss it too much.
Yes, sometimes I've lost interest for other reasons ,couldn't find new homes for my fish so just ending up keeping them.
Other times, it's the fish. There are some fish I wish I had given up on much sooner..
*cough cough*...jurapari cichlids..
My basic view now is if this is a hobby, it should be enjoyable and if it's not, then maybe you need to change your setups, re-home some fish or maybe moving on altogether is the right choice for you.
Some times I loose interest and don't do water changes ever week like I should but I would never get out of the hobby. 1/2 gallon jug hell you might as well use a glass. Get a 5 gallon bucket or a long hose.
I've given up for periods, but I've always kept my tank because I knew I would return. Last week I returned after about five years out of the hobby. There is something enjoyable for me about just sitting and watching the fish.
Everyone in this hobby gets burned out now and then. It's frustrating when you have a dysfunctional fish. Kind of weird that your Del doesn't get along with other Polys. It could just be one Poly trying to show who's the dominate one. The fin nipping should end after a few days. Usually, Polys aren't aggressive and any non-aggressive and/or semi-aggressive fish should be fine...Knife Fish, larger Characin, Dats, etc. I'd suggest getting a Python. It's worth it so you don't have to make the trips across the house carrying a bucket.
Ok, just calm down and step away from the edge. Theres no need to... Oh wait.
Just kidding. Seriously though, look into something like a simple "drinking water safe" garden hose. If you have a washing machine, chances are you can rig something up to get both cold and hot water with no buckets. I would give up without my python.
Yah right, please don't give false advise. The SA cichlids would likely bully the bichir. The tetras would eventually end up as snacks and the barbs would outcompete the bichir for food.
To OP, I have the same problem. But im better off with a 5g bucket. I had to carry it all the way from my bedroom to the sink. If you want, you can invest in a larger bucket and a trolley to push for you. Otherwise, Python seems great.
My FX5 leaked 2 times and I just gave up and went for alcohol. Thought of what would happen to my fish if I let the entire tank drain. So I came to my sense and fix the o-rings, came back 50% of the tank was on the floor but at least my fishes are still alive.
I'd suggest a long hose (python, aqueon, garden,etc) or several. My 90 gallon just moved upstairs to make room for a new tank and the water pressure in the upstairs bathroom isn't strong enough to start a siphon. So now I use two hoses connected together to go all the way downstairs.... and you know what? Due to the vertical drop, my water changes take about half the amount of time they used to..
As far as species not getting along, I think it's just a matter of trial and error and aquascape with lots of cover. Cover has been the key for me to keep many aggressive fish in relatively small tanks.
Everyone gets frustrated from time to time, but there's always a reasonable solution to a problem. Sometimes it takes several tries to come up with one they will work for you. Dont give up. Just spend alot of time on forums like this and ask lots if questions.... The only stupid question is the one not asked