Substrate Questions

[Mudhog79]

Hello All,

I am just getting going with my Fluval Spec 5, i had an aquarium many years ago but nothing like this. Fake plants, large gravel, HOB filter etc.

For my Fluval Spec 5 I have purchased the CaribSea Eco Complete as a substrate. I have also been told to cap it with something like aquarium sand. I have purchased 10lbs of black sand at Petco to lay down. Once i lay down the sand will i be-able to vacuum without sucking out all of the sand? As noted a long time ago i had larger gravel so it was not an issue.

I also assume i need to wash the black sand i purchased, what is the best way to do this?

 

[elephantnose]

When vacuuming just keep the siphoner above the sand. For washing the sand I usually use a bucket with a hose. Someone might chime in with a better way.



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[Mudhog79]

So you are saying when using the vacuum just skim the top vs. sticking the siphohoner down into the sand?

When vacuuming just keep the siphoner above the sand. For washing the sand I usually use a bucket with a hose. Someone might chime in with a better way.



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[Mebbid]

So you are saying when using the vacuum just skim the top vs. sticking the siphohoner down into the sand?

Yep, there's no reason to suck up the sand. It compacts enough to not trap significant amounts of detritus

 

[emilygupps]

I have terrible luck with skimming. I have three sanded aquariums and vacuuming is a pain in my butt. We always just end up either not getting ANY poop or getting a pound of sand :-/



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[Krissycakes]

Try take the cup part off the hose and just use the hose. That's how I clean my bookshelf tank with shrimp