how often?

[sarah-j]

Hiya quick question?
How often should I do a partial water change if my levels are good, i.e ammonia is zero, nitrite is zero?

And if my tank is on a mini cycle from new fish how often should I do water change? and is 10%-15% okay?

 

[FalconStorm]

That depends on how many fish you have. Generally, with a small load, a 10%-15% change every two weeks is fine, I think. For a fully stocked tank, a 10%-15% once a week is good. Overstocked, I'd say 25% once a week. I do the last one because I am horrible about overstocking.

For the minicycle, I'd add another 5%-10% to what you've been doing, and monitor your levels, adjust changes as necessary. More water changes will not hurt your fish unless you have incredibly skittish ones, in which case, they just hide. More is always better. Also, remember that even if your levels are good, nitrate will build up and can only be alleviated by water changes, and certain minerals and stuff build up in the water if you only top off instead of actually removing water and adding fresh.

Good luck.

 

[FishLuvr]

couldn't have said it better thank falcon did

as your mini cycle progresses i would do more water changes to bring the levels down, as falcon said your fish won't be harmed by water changes, maybe stressed if they are skittish/shy but harmed in no other way

 

[freddyk]

If you want a more accurate schedule, test the nitrates before each water change. You need to do as many water changes as it takes to keep them at an acceptable level (under 50).

 

[Grey Legion]

Also ( depends on your bio-load ) smaller but more freqent water changes may be better for your need, also have to see how much time you get to spent on your tank in any given week..

I like to do a small water change every 2nd day only takes a minute or 2 and by the weekend I am done and can enjoy watching my fish.

I normally do 35% in a week to week 1/2 but like I said I do many smal water changes versus one HUGE one..

you'll have to try a few things to see what fits you and your fish best..

 

[Bloo]

My tanks tend to be fully stocked. On average I tend to do a 25% water change per week. Sometimes 10% twice a week. Just depends.