Improving water filtration systems

[bytea]

Hi all,
I'm running a 135 gallon african cichlid tank with 32 fish, some of which are getting pretty huge (my gkento4t pleco, for example). I've got a fluval 405, a fluval 406, and two power heads for oxygen and circulation. Initially, everything was fine, but as the fish grew and I added more, I'm now hitting the limits of this setup. After a month, the filters are filthy, and I'm getting ammonia spikes if I don't do 30% water changes weekly. I've also got about 20 red shoulder babies that are almost ready to move into the big tank - they're getting pretty big. Any suggestions would be appreciated.

[lukayo]

Hi all,
I'm running a 135 gallon african cichlid tank with 32 fish, some of which are getting pretty huge (my gkento4t pleco, for example). I've got a fluval 405, a fluval 406, and two power heads for oxygen and circulation. Initially, everything was fine, but as the fish grew and I added more, I'm now hitting the limits of this setup. After a month, the filters are filthy, and I'm getting ammonia spikes if I don't do 30% water changes weekly. I've also got about 20 red shoulder babies that are almost ready to move into the big tank - they're getting pretty big. Any suggestions would be appreciated.

I'd suggest swapping out the smaller canister for a fluval FX6 - these filters are well-suited for African cichlid tanks. To ensure a smooth transition, I'd let the existing filter handle the bulk of the load while the new one gets established with beneficial bacteria. As a precaution, I'd recommend doing at least 60% water changes, limiting feeding to once a day with one fasting day per week, and monitoring water parameters daily for any spikes.

[pastime1]

Honestly, I think regular water changes are a must regardless of filtration upgrades - 50% wouldn't be too much either.

[bytea]

My schedule's a bit tricky - 2 weeks on, 2 weeks off. I've been doing a 30% water change the day I get home, then sometimes a smaller one mid-stay, and another 30-40% before I head back out.

[boomer]

Hi all,
I'm running a 135 gallon african cichlid tank with 32 fish, some of which are getting pretty huge (my gkento4t pleco, for example). I've got a fluval 405, a fluval 406, and two power heads for oxygen and circulation. Initially, everything was fine, but as the fish grew and I added more, I'm now hitting the limits of this setup. After a month, the filters are filthy, and I'm getting ammonia spikes if I don't do 30% water changes weekly. I've also got about 20 red shoulder babies that are almost ready to move into the big tank - they're getting pretty big. Any suggestions would be appreciated.

You're really underestimating the impact of regular water changes. No matter how many filters you add, they can't replicate the benefits of a substantial weekly water change. I'm talking 60-70% of the tank volume, minimum. Filters do their job by removing suspended particles, but when it comes to biological balance, it's a different story. The bacteria will only work within the limits of the tank's biology, regardless of the filtration setup.

I'm not saying you can get away with less filtration - you need enough to support your tank volume and fish load. But adding more filters beyond that point won't make a significant difference. What will make a difference is increasing your water change volume. One large change per week is far more beneficial than smaller daily changes. For example, doing 10% every day doesn't hold a candle to changing 70% once a week. There's scientific data to back this up, so it's not just my opinion.

[bytea]

I'm having a real issue with water changes - I was looking at those Python water changers but I've got a new style sink and it just won't fit. I'm really struggling to see how I can manage 70% weekly water changes, especially when I'm away for work. My girlfriend's not exactly keen on taking on that task either. Has anyone had any luck with those Python water changers on newer sinks, or any other solutions that might make my life easier?

[boomer]

Hi all,
I'm running a 135 gallon african cichlid tank with 32 fish, some of which are getting pretty huge (my gkento4t pleco, for example). I've got a fluval 405, a fluval 406, and two power heads for oxygen and circulation. Initially, everything was fine, but as the fish grew and I added more, I'm now hitting the limits of this setup. After a month, the filters are filthy, and I'm getting ammonia spikes if I don't do 30% water changes weekly. I've also got about 20 red shoulder babies that are almost ready to move into the big tank - they're getting pretty big. Any suggestions would be appreciated.

I'm offering this in the spirit of improving fish health, not to criticize. As aquarium owners, we have a responsibility to provide proper care for our fish; they're living creatures that deserve our best efforts.

Increasing water change volumes significantly when you're able to do them would be a better option for the fish than the current setup. It shouldn't be difficult to instruct someone on managing this task, especially when the fishes' lives are at stake.

Regarding the sink faucet issue, it's not uncommon; I've had to get creative with my setup. I run my PytLion into the laundry room sink, which I had modified with a threaded tap to accommodate hoses.

[bytea]

I appreciate your advice, boomer, and I'm grateful for your concern about my tanks. I do take good care of them, but my work schedule has changed and my girlfriend isn't too keen on helping with maintenance beyond the basics. She enjoys watching the fish, though. I really wish I could use the PytLion water changer, as I'm sure she'd be willing to do that, but unfortunately, it doesn't fit my sink and I don't have another accessible sink on the same level.

Given my current situation, do you think replacing one of my filters with an FX6 would still be a good idea, even if I stick to my current water change schedule? Would that still provide some improvement?

[breezo]

I found this simple shower head adapter, super cheap, and it doesn't get stripped easily.

[bytea]

I really like that idea breezo, unfortunately, I don't have a shower nearby. I'm wondering if something similar could work with my dishwasher, it's the only other option close to the tank.