How to change the water in an indoor fish tank: a scientific guide
Changing the water in the fish tank is an essential part of the fish farming process. It can not only keep the water clean, but also promote the healthy growth of fish. However, improper water changes may cause water quality fluctuations and even threaten fish life. This article will combine the popular fish farming topics on the Internet in the past 10 days to provide you with a detailed analysis of the correct method of changing water in an indoor fish tank.
1. Preparations before changing water

Before changing the water, you need to make the following preparations:
| Tools/Materials | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Siphon or water changer | Used to suck out water and debris from the bottom of the fish tank |
| bucket or container | Hold new or old water |
| water quality test reagent | Test the pH value, ammonia nitrogen and other indicators of new water and fish tank water |
| water thermometer | Make sure the new water is at the same temperature as the fish tank water |
| Dechlorinator | Treating chlorine in tap water |
2. Detailed explanation of water changing steps
1.Turn off the device: Turn off heating rods, filters and other equipment before changing water to avoid dry burning or damage.
2.Suck out the old water: Use a siphon to suck out the water at the bottom of the fish tank (about 1/3 to 1/2 of the water), and at the same time clean up the remaining bait and feces in the bottom sand.
3.Prepare new water: New water needs to be left standing for 24 hours in advance or treated with a dechlorinator to ensure that the water temperature is consistent with that of the fish tank (the temperature difference does not exceed 1-2°C).
| water quality parameters | Recommended range |
|---|---|
| pH value | 6.5-7.5 (adjusted according to fish species) |
| Ammonia nitrogen content | 0mg/L |
| nitrite | <0.1 mg/L |
4.Slowly add new water: Pour new water slowly along the tank wall to avoid impacting the bottom sand and fish.
5.Restart device: Turn on the heating rod and filter 30 minutes after changing the water.
3. Water change frequency and precautions
Depending on the size of the fish tank and breeding density, the recommended frequency of water changes is as follows:
| Fish tank type | Water change frequency | Water change amount |
|---|---|---|
| Small fish tank (<30L) | 1-2 times a week | 1/3 water |
| Medium fish tank (30-100L) | 1 time a week | 1/4 amount of water |
| Large fish tank (>100L) | Once every 2 weeks | 1/5 amount of water |
Things to note:
1. Avoid replacing all the water at one time to avoid damaging the nitrification system.
2. The water quality, especially pH and hardness, must be tested before new water is put into the tank.
3. Observe the status of the fish after changing the water. If floating heads or restlessness appear, check the water quality immediately.
4. Answers to recent popular fish farming questions
Based on the hot topics on the Internet in the past 10 days, the following frequently asked questions have been compiled:
| question | solution |
|---|---|
| The water becomes turbid after changing the water | Stop feeding, add nitrifying bacteria, and strengthen filtration |
| Chlorine in tap water exceeds standard | Extend the standing time to 48 hours or use a double dechlorinator |
| It is difficult to control the water temperature during water changes in winter | Use a heating rod to preheat new water in the bucket |
5. Summary
Scientific water changes are the key to successful fish farming. By regularly testing the water quality, controlling the amount and frequency of water changes, and following correct operating procedures, your fish tank will remain clear and stable, and your fish will grow healthily. The recent hotly discussed fish farming issues on the Internet also remind us that details determine success or failure, especially when changing water in winter.
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