discus tank water change tools

[oldRash]

What's the best tool for water changes in a 75 gallon Discus tank? I've been using a basic siphon but it's kinda slow. My fish are adults, around 6 inches, and I do 30% changes twice a week. Tank's got sand substrate, a Fluval canister filter, and a few Amazon swords. Need something efficient but won't stress them out.

[Foldo]

A Python no spill clean and fill system might work for you. It hooks up to your sink, so you can drain and refill without buckets. I've used it in my 90 gallon with Discus for years. Just make sure the temp matches when refilling, they're picky about that. Also, keep an eye on the chlorine levels if your tap water isn't great.

[guppy]

I swear by my Aqueon water changer. It's cheaper than the Python and does the same job. My Discus don't even flinch when I use it. I do 25% changes three times a week in my 55 gallon, with a mix of driftwood and Java ferns. Just gotta be gentle with the flow rate.

[kayla]

A Python no spill clean and fill system might work for you. It hooks up to your sink, so you can drain and refill without buckets. I've used it in my 90 gallon with Discus for years. Just make sure the temp matches when refilling, they're picky about that. Also, keep an eye on the chlorine levels if your tap water isn't great.

Totally agree on the Python. I pair mine with a digital thermometer to check the refill water. My Discus are in a 120 gallon with a sponge filter and lots of floating plants. Consistency is key with these fish.

[Jazzman]

If you're sticking with a siphon, get one with a wider tube. The Fluval Edge gravel cleaner has a 1.5 inch diameter, which speeds things up. I use it in my 65 gallon with Discus and cardinal tetras. Just be careful not to disturb the sand too much, they don't like cloudy water.

[oldRash]

Thanks for the suggestions, everyone. Gonna look into the Python system. Sounds like it'll cut my water change time in half.

[fixin]

Make sure you're also using a good water conditioner like Seachem Prime. It neutralizes chlorine and chloramines instantly. I dose it directly into the tank before refilling. My Discus are in a 100 gallon with a sump, and I've never had issues. Also, keep the pH stable during changes, they're sensitive to swings.

[Jurn]

Yo, I just use a cheapo siphon from PetCo and it gets the job done. My Discus are chill with it, but I only do 20% changes once a week. Tank's a 40 breeder with a HOB filter and some anubias. Maybe I'm lazy, but they're still growin' fine.

[raid]

How often should I change water for juvenile Discus? Mine are about 2 inches in a 30 gallon. I've been doing 50% every other day but it's a lot of work.

[Veloce]

How often should I change water for juvenile Discus? Mine are about 2 inches in a 30 gallon. I've been doing 50% every other day but it's a lot of work.

For juvies, that's actually spot on. They need clean water to grow properly. I'd stick with it until they hit 4 inches. My setup's similar, 35 gallon with a sponge filter and bare bottom. Makes cleaning easier.