Water change frequency

[Bige]

I change my water 25% once a week. I went to a lfs and their jaw dropped when I said that. They said that is too much. What's your opinion?

 

[Zer0]

Depends on the size of the tank right? 25% of 100 gallons is nothing compared to 25% of 20 gallons.

Personally.. i don't think it's that bad.. It's only 7.25 gallons out of 29 so it's really not that much. I'll probably be doing five gallon changes on my 25G tank.

 

[ryshark]

There is noting wrong with 25% once per week. I would do that much if it was easier, but my tank is pretty big. I do roughly 16% per week.

 

[Mitchell0605]

Once your tank is about 8-12 months old you can start easing off. The parameters are more constant and the LR is mature. I only do 20% biweekly after almost a year and a half.

 

[thincat]

Bige, never to much water changes. your LFS is looking at the bottom line as far as cost and that is their reason.

 

[Mitchell0605]

If they say something about losing to much beneficial bacteria cause the PWCs are taking them out don't listen. It's all on the rocks.

 

[ccCapt]

I've been doing about 20% every week for over 20 yrs and have no plans on changing that schedule.

 

[cmor1701d]

I just completed a 25 gallon PWC for 5 straight days in my 125. Yes, a 100% water change in a week. I was fighting some bad maintenance on my part where my params got out of whack. Normally I do a 25g PWC every other week and will return to that schedule now.

25% a week is a great way to maintain pristine water conditions (depending on feeding).

 

[melosu58]

I have a 125 gallon tank and change mine every week. Tell your LFS to put his jaw back up. LOL

 

[cmor1701d]

Ans sell you more salt mix!

 

[catmel]

I agree with everyone else.. I have a 55 gallon and do 5-10 gallons a week ( 10-20% change) and its helped wonderfully! I use to do 10-20% every two weeks. I've noticed a big difference already