Id like to move from gravel to sand, is this hard work ?
Ive read the sand has to be super clean as it can make the water cloudy and as it passes through the filter the water can become frothy
anyone use sand ? and know the best way to clean it
thanks
yeah man, sand CAN be a fine substrate.
by far the most used is argos/toysrus playsand
"silver" or "kiln dried" sand do a fair job. but the sand is very "sharp" and not suited to bottom dwellers. (amongst others)
whilst there is no drawback to using "Aquarium" branded products, there is no advantage either. considering their cost, why would you use them?
you will need to wash the sand several times, alternating between warm and cold water till the water runs clear (well fairly)
then i find its down to technique. as even the costliest Aquarium sand makes the water very cloudy!!!!!!!!!!
the following technique is kulled from my own, and from vicarious, experience drawn over close to a decade chatting on just this subject.
having washed and washed and washed my sand,(answer to how best to wash sand is boring repetitive rinsing) next step is to remove the old substrate.
I now use a stainless sieve for the job, after removing any decorations airstones and such like.
just scoop out the old stuff, dont worry your tank will look frightful, this will clear if you leave the tank to settle for an hour or so.
I now reduce the water to 50%, leaving the fish still in there.
remembering to switch off your heater and filter.
to lay down your new substrate, I'd suggest using a plastic takeaway tub (large)
i scoop up some of my sand and CAREFULLY lower it into the water. as the tub touches the bottom i VERY CAREFULLY tip out its contents. remember to remove the tub just as carefully as you lowered it.
repeat till your base is covered. leave the tank to settle for an hour.
if you have an external, or an internal that will work with 50% filling, you can switch them back on now.
if not after the hour to settle, CAREFULLY top your tank up to 100%, and switch both heater and filter back on.
your water will clear in an hour or two, IF you have done this as carefully as it needs.
now add back your decorations. remember airstones will kick up sand so placement is key.
(actually i find if you lay your airstones at the very back of the tank, they draw back any solid waste that lays on the sand. making it much easier to clean up.
next step is to clean the mechanical section of your filter (remove any sand that has accumulated)
then you should be fit to go.