Tools

[Oldspartan]

OK …. The new 37 is tall. It is about 54 inches from floor to tank top. Yesterdayday I did a water change of about 15gallons. It was, to be blunt, pita. I got wet, the floor got wet, Linda got, well let me just say this mild majored mate of many years was unhappy with me.

I also note that my current plunge up and down gravel cleaner is not to my satisfaction. Seems to me that it very disturbing to the peace of the tank as well as inefficient labor wise.

I do not want an all in one system the empties and fills because I can and will plumb water to the room when I move the laundry from basement to the new laundry room I am preparing.

Anyway, I would appreciate suggestions on a reliable electric vacuum that I can also use as a pump for water changes.

 

[Colin_T]

Attach the gravel cleaner to a garden hose and run it out onto the lawn.

The gravel cleaners you plunge down and up repeatedly to get the water syphoning aren't necessary and you can actually start them normally without disturbing the fish.

Watch this link around the 3 minute mark. it shows you how to start a gravel cleaner the proper way.

 

[Oldspartan]

Thank You for the suggestion. The hose idea would be ok for part of the. It is 5f as I type however. Linda would blanch at the slightest openings. That would be best case.

I did watch the video and will employ that fix for now. I am still leaning to an appliance though.

 

[MaloK]

This is a job for...

Python Product

 

[Magnum Man]

I don't use the Python system, but I like this for the business end, on a traditional vac system... BTW, I cut the hose about 1 inch in from the suction tube, & install a barbed 90 degree elbow, to keep it from kinking, & a 2 step, step stool is part of my gravel vacuum tools, as mine are all at least as high as yours... if you are having trouble keeping the outlet in the bucket, you can add a weight to that end, so it weighs it down in the bucket, & you may need a longer hose, if you tank is extra high

Amazon.com

 

[Oldspartan]

I considered the python but it is far more machine than I need. I will have both a water supply with water mixing valve and drain within a few feet of planned tanks, (if all goes to plan).

I think an electric vacuum of good quality will serve my need.

Linda and I are both past spring chicken age, getting a little creaky, so a stool is something I wish to avoid.

Thank you all for the suggestions.

 

[sharkweek178]

Just get a gravel vac with a bulb pump. That way you won't have to mess with plunging.

 

[Oldspartan]

Thank You I appreciate all input.

The drain that I will be using will be above at least tanks. I am really thinking an electric unit will better fit the need as it will pump up.

I am going to the local fish palace later this week and see what they have or can order.

 

[Back in the fold]

The ZooMed Company makes a handy little siphon pump for water changes .