Water Testing - I'm good to go!

There’s no easy answer here, when you say you’re having to move the tank will you be able to save the water from it? This is crucial as if you have to re-fill it with fresh water you will be risking an overload of the system which might just result in the dreaded “new tank syndrome” (or whatever they call it now).

I think your best bet would (if at all possible) to drain off and collect as much of your cycled water as you are able then re-site your tank with your gravel (washed!!!) then you can carefully replace the plants/wood and eventually the water.

Obviously the gravel will displace some of the water so you will not need to save every drop. However, if you do need to use ‘new’ water you will have to treat it first as putting untreated water might damage the beneficial bacteria you have built up in your filter.

My suggestion would be to re-fill the tank, leave it to stand for 48 hours then check your water perameters, if everything’s fine (and hopefully it should be) after then you should be able to start your stocking regime – but remember…build up your stock GRADUALLY, this really cannot be stressed enough. Also, don’t go overfeeding your fish initially, the bacteria has to adjust to the ever-increasing new loading brought about by your new stock. One last thing – water-changing is really very important – especially in a newly set-up and stocked tank.

Good luck with this venture - let the Forum know how it progresses.

John

roealdo wrote:

I have a 10l buket which I was gona fill and leave the filter in as I moved it

That will be fine - use the existing tank water for the bucket too and, if you have one, use an air pump to aerate the water if the filter is going to be off for any length of time, bacteria should last without too much loss for around an hour this way.

Please don't try to move your tank until you have removed all the water - I tried this and ended up with the seal on the bottom springing a leak (not exactly what you'd be wanting!!!).

Hope all goes well with your task.

John

roealdo wrote:

the thing would be to heavy to move with water in it!

Quite right...I meant even a small amount in the bottom.

:o)

John