Let's Talk Tank Vacuums.

[ClownLurch]

Python for WC at the same time as GV is done into a bucket with a errrrrh GVr.
Dirty and excess water into a waterbutt for garden watering.

 

[cdelly]

pop/soda bottle cut bottom off

seal hose into top and there you go

squeeze / bend hose to control speed of flow

 

[SarahBeth]

Yeah I am not interested in a syphon. I got a AQQA vacuum and used it yesterday for a water change. Worked great. I haven't used the filter bag yet but it is much better than what came with the crappy one.

 

[Boundava]

Also use a Python to do substrate cleaning an WC. With the amount of water I change I always use gravity to empty/clean substrate. I do at minimum 50 to 80% WC (depends on what's in the tank, i.e. two Royal pleco pooping machines) so a lot of water is emptied a week (200+ gallons). Python is so convinient and saves a lot of time.

 

[Lecturemode]

Pythons are OK if you don't have to pay for water; in Australia we're on water meters so every wasted litre down the sink costs. I just use a siphon out the back door onto the lawn, the hose has one of those squeezy bulbs in to start the siphon so I don't have to suck - learnt years ago tank water isn't tasty.
To fill up attach the hose to the mixer tap and top up putting dechlorinator in as I fill.