Betta fish and water change schedules

[tanger]

How often do you guys change the water for your bettas? I've been doing weekly 25% changes, but my fish seems stressed after. Tank is 5 gallons, heated to 78F, with a sponge filter. Wondering if I'm overdoing it.

[windy]

Weekly changes are pretty standard for a 5 gallon. What's your water source? If you're using tap, maybe the conditioner isn't cutting it. I use Seachem Prime and let the water sit for an hour before adding it.

[techy]

How often do you guys change the water for your bettas? I've been doing weekly 25% changes, but my fish seems stressed after. Tank is 5 gallons, heated to 78F, with a sponge filter. Wondering if I'm overdoing it.

Stress could be from temp swings. Are you matching the new water temp to the tank? Even a 2-degree difference can mess with them. Also, check your ammonia levels between changes.

[flintox]

I do 20% every 10 days for my 10-gallon. My dude's chill with it. Maybe cut back to 15% weekly? Less disruption, same cleanliness over time.

[rockyfox]

Agree with techy on temp matching. I use a digital thermometer to double-check. Also, how's your flow? Sponge filters are gentle, but if it's too strong, that could add stress.

[kayaks]

yo i just change when the water looks sketchy. my betta's alive so i guess it works? lol

[cipher]

yo i just change when the water looks sketchy. my betta's alive so i guess it works? lol

That's... not ideal. Ammonia builds up before you see it. Get a test kit, dude. API Master Kit is gold.

[_rivulet]

I've had success with 20% weekly in my 5-gallon, but I drip-acclimate the new water over an hour. Slower changes = less shock. Also, Prime is a must.

[baker]

if your fish is stressed, try smaller changes more often. like 10% twice a week. keeps things steady.

[Riftcore]

I've noticed my bettas are more relaxed when I change water in the evening. They're less active then, so it's less disruptive. Maybe timing matters?