Cleaning a Python

[martiniduck]

I have a 100 ft Python and I have noticed that black spots have formed in the hose in spots. I am thinking it is mildew. I cannot get to it to clean it out, the hose is too long for that. I have tried to run hot water through the hose to clean it. That did not work. Anyone else see this happening to them? Is mildew harmful to fish?

 

[cjldad]

I wouldn't sweat it at all..
Might mean you aren't doing frequent enough water changes though.. Haha!

 

[Zagz]

To get the rest of the water out of the hose, run it for a few seconds with the end out of a tank. I have a 50' one and have been using for 6 years and no mildew.

 

[The_Desacrator]

I had a Python for a couple of years and I do not recall having that kind of issue. Right now I use a Aqueon knock off, and I have noticed any black spots.

 

[uscamaro]

It's nothing to worry about, as long as you run hot water through it before and after each use.

 

[Floyd R Turbo]

I remember getting mildew in my hand siphons years ago, I think the frequency of PWC that I'm doing now prevents this. I have a 50' Python and after the fill, I 'walk' the water out 2-3 times to make sure to get as much out as possible, then coil it up and store it in a 14g rubbermaid tub. I use it at least once every 10 days if that helps. I don't run hot water before 'walking', just tank temp water form the tap.

 

[BigJim]

Run some hydrogen peroxide through the hose.

 

[martiniduck]

Thanks for all the help. I use it every week to do water changes and I drain it as much as possible, but there is always a few drops. I tried running Hot water through it, but it will not go away. I might try the H2O2.

 

[Zagz]

I use mine a few times a week and have never got any mildew, strange. Maybe I do too many water changes LOL.

 

[shadylady23]

That happened to mine old syphon. Just replace the tube, Home depot sells the same tubing, you can get like 20 or 25 feet for 6 bucks. I replaced my syphon hose, AND he made like a 50 foot one that hooks to the sink so I can refill. Now I just syphon it out the window! (Great for outdoor plants too btw) All for about 20 bucks or so!

 

[mfdrookie516]

I've never experienced this issue, but I seem to remember somebody having this same problem on here a while back. Various methods were tried with no success. I just don't see how it can happen. If both ends are left open, the hose is drained as good as possible, seems like it would all evap out after a few days.

 

[martiniduck]

Thanks Mary. I will have to go get some hose.

@ Johnathan. I think the long length of the hose restricts the water drops from evaporating. It's funny because my tanks evaporate by at least an inch every week in-between water changes.