Water Change Question & Filter

[Markk9]

My setup is a 55 gallon, with a Tetratec PF300 filter. Fish, 6 tiger barbs, 2 black convicts, 1 firemouth, 1 bumblebee, 1 red tail shark. All the fish were purchased small and raised together, everyone seems to get along.

I’ve had this set up running for 6 months. I did a 75% water change once a week, using the old manual way with 5 gallon buckets. I test my water before I change it to check how its holding up, and I don’t have any bad reading, everything is right wear it should be. Last weekend I took the plunge and purchased a python, I can kick myself or waiting. So, my question is would it be ok, to clean and change the water 50% twice a week? Second, do you think I have enough filer, or should I add a second one?



Mark

 

[justin guest]

Firstly a water change of 50% once a week should be sufficient. you can do more if you want to though as it shouldn´t harm the fish unless the water has a temp. difference of more than 2 degrees. I would personally increase my filtration. if you are changing so much water because of water quality issues then you definately need more filtration.
j<><

 

[pdsmith]

i felt the same way when i got my python. then i got a mag drive 950 pump new for $30. now i have that on the end of a hose and i do power water changes. i did the same water changes b4 and after the python and the pump. i do 50% every 4 to 5 days on all my tanks. so i think your plan is ok. personally i'd up the filtration to an aquaclear 110. it flows 500 gph about 10x over filter rate is what i think works best.