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How do you move a tank?
Posted: Sat Dec 22, 2007 1:03 pm
by sparks42
Do you have to empty it and start all over again?
Or is there a more simple way of moving a tank. Any tips?
Re: How do you move a tank?
Posted: Sat Dec 22, 2007 1:58 pm
by smudger72
What size is the tank?
Do you have any containers for storing the water in?
Don't try and move the tank with water in that is asking for trouble.
You don't have to start again(cycling the tank) if you can move the tank within about an hour and get the filter running again so that all the bacteria don't die off you should be ok.
Re: How do you move a tank?
Posted: Sat Dec 22, 2007 7:20 pm
by groovitudedude
Depends on how much the tank holds, and how many containers you have for holding water.
Re: How do you move a tank?
Posted: Sun Dec 23, 2007 12:00 am
by Pufferpunk
How far are you moving it?
Re: How do you move a tank?
Posted: Sun Dec 23, 2007 4:41 pm
by sparks42
oh I'm not planning on moving it....just curious
My tank is 30g I think?
Re: How do you move a tank?
Posted: Sun Dec 23, 2007 5:59 pm
by xxSarahxx
It is surprisingly easy!! I've done it with over 30 tanks before... I had to move out for a month and then move back again!!!
Basically keep the filter running as long as possible.... the bacteria that live in it require oxygen to live (and that is provided in the water running over it) and when you do eventually turn it off keep all the media in water.
Apart from that syphon off the water and try to move at least 50% of it but it can also be used as a chance to do a decent water change.
Then move the tank!!
Then refill it and get your filter running as soon as possible!
Acclimatise the fish back into their tank and you're done!
Personally I like to not feed the fish a day or so before or after the move so as to allow for the loss that is unavoidable of some of your bacteria in your filter.
I'm sure other people do it in other ways but I find it works very well for me and the customers I advise to do the same so very well too!
Re: How do you move a tank?
Posted: Wed Dec 26, 2007 10:36 pm
by groovitudedude
Be very careful though. A tank that's only like 10 Gallons weighs about 100lbs. Try and empty out as much water as possible (keep the water, of course). Unless you have a bigger tank. I had to get one of my friends to help me move my 55G with only rocks/substrate in it. No fish, <1Gallon of water, no plants, no nothing, except for the substrate. Remember, it ALWAYS weighs heavier than it looks.