I tried the search function but couldn't find what I was looking for. I currently have pool filter sand in my stingray tank but I'd like to to take it out to make cleaning a whole lot easier and also to increase the flow in the tank to keep it cleaner as well. My question is, what's a good way to take out the sand? Do I use a cup and scoop it out or is there an easier way since it's a big (relatively speaking, it's a 265) tank? Thanks.
Removing sand
- Thread starter wheresalbany
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Whenever I have remove sand/gravel from a tank I use a plastic dustpan (the kind that will snap onto a broom handle) As I scoop the sand and bring it to the surface, I allow the water to drain out the handle. You could alway siphon the sand out and return the water to the tank.....265G, not going to be much fun!
in my 265g, I used a large net to do it as I can't reach to the bottom while standing on the kitchen chair (altho I'm 5'9"). This way I didn't lose much water...Took awhile, but got it done that way. Having the bare bottom was worth it. Never have to clean the main tank out, just the sump
use a hose as siphon, dig it into the sand and it will suck it up . it will take a couple weeks but you get the sand out at the same time as your water change.
tuffy_rana;3831650; said:
won't fully work. I have sand still in the 125g and 20g (bare bottom in 265g sand removal, and gravel in 54g). Water changes with the gravel hose cleaner alone won't remove the sand. It does get a little bit during water changes, but nothing worth noting
just thought that yesterday I used a eheim 1250 water pump, attached it to my vacuum gravel cleaner tube (with clamps), and I was able to get out all the sand and crud in the corner overflows. Worked awesome...first attempt to clean that out in a year. Might want to check into doing that. Simple, quick, and didn't require much water. I also use this method to clean out my sump crud
First I would say use the dustpan method to get most of it. Then take the bell off of the gravel vac & TRY to suck up the sand as if it were fish crap, using just the hose. Causes much higher suction. You will suck up all the sand without taking as much water out with it. If you use a Python, put a bucket in the sink under the outlet to catch the sand. It works, I promise.
Ive always used a garden hose to siphon my sand out of my tanks. just make sure that the end is going into a garbage bag outside and not the drain.