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What's the best setup for water changes in a 75-gallon Discus tank? I've been using a Python no-spill system, but it's kinda slow. My fish get stressed when the temp fluctuates too much. Current setup: Eheim 2217 canister, sand substrate, driftwood, and a few Amazon swords. Water params are good, 0 ammonia, 0 nitrite, 5 nitrate. Just wanna make it smoother for them.

I just use a basic siphon and a couple buckets. Works fine for my 55-gallon. Got a cheap heater to match the tank temp before adding new water. Discus seem chill with it. No fancy gear needed, just gotta be careful with the temp.

For larger tanks, a Python system is decent, but you might wanna upgrade to a dedicated pump setup. I use a Sicce Syncra pump with vinyl tubing, cuts the time in half. Key is matching pH and temp closely. My Discus are in a 120-gallon, planted with CO2, and they don't even flinch during changes now.

Yo, I just grab a hose and let it rip. Temp's close enough, and my fish don't care. Got a 60-gallon with some driftwood and fake plants. Nitrates stay low, so I don't sweat it. Discus are tough, they'll adapt.

lad wrote: ↑Tue Jun 24, 2025 1:44 am I just use a basic siphon and a couple buckets. Works fine for my 55-gallon. Got a cheap heater to match the tank temp before adding new water. Discus seem chill with it. No fancy gear needed, just gotta be careful with the temp.

That's solid advice. I've found that even a small temp difference can freak them out. I use a digital thermometer to double-check before adding new water. My 90-gallon has a mix of sand and gravel, and the Discus are way calmer now.

A pump system is the way to go if you're dealing with larger volumes. I've got a Jebao DCS-3000 on my 180-gallon, and it's a game-changer. Paired with a mixing valve to dial in the temp precisely. Discus are in a planted tank with CO2, and they barely notice the changes. Worth the investment if you're serious about keeping them happy.

I've been using a Python too, but yeah, it's slow. My 50-gallon has sand and a few live plants. Discus seem okay, but I'm gonna try a pump like Jazzman suggested. Gotta keep the temp steady, though.

Honestly, y'all overcomplicate it. I dump water in straight from the tap, and my Discus are fine. Tank's a 40-gallon with some rocks and plastic plants. Nitrates are low, so who cares? Fish are tough, they'll deal.

jennyfish wrote: ↑Tue Jun 24, 2025 9:15 am Honestly, y'all overcomplicate it. I dump water in straight from the tap, and my Discus are fine. Tank's a 40-gallon with some rocks and plastic plants. Nitrates are low, so who cares? Fish are tough, they'll deal.

That's a sketchy approach. Discus are sensitive to chlorine and temp swings. At least use a conditioner and match the temp. My 75-gallon has a mix of sand and driftwood, and I'd never risk tap water straight in.

Thanks for the tips, everyone. Gonna look into a pump setup like Jazzman and silverbob mentioned. Appreciate the help!