Instead of changing Substrate...

[SigPiPup]

.... would it be ok to just turn the current substrate over?

My plan is to rearrange my living room which would include moving my 10gal. I was originally going to replace some of the substrate during the move, but now I'm wondering if just turning it over would be ok. Of course I would remove everything from the tank first.

I'm thinking that just turning it over might release some nastiness, but wouldn't the same nastiness be released from scooping the substrate out during a substrate change as well?

[rsw686]

Your trying to move a 10 gal tank, correct? Just leave the substrate and live rock alone. Drain the tank so an inch or so of water is left and carry it across the room. I've moved 3/4 full 10gal tanks with no problems. They are lightweight enough that the silicon can withstand the move.

[SigPiPup]

Oh, I know it isn't heavy. I've moved the tank at least 6 times now. I was just wondering about an alternative to changing the substrate out.

[Grins]

I'd rather leave it be than turn it over.

[Reefscape]

do not start turning the sand bed over...your going to be unlocking all the nastyness that is locked away, and the nitrate spike will be terrible and could potentially have disasterous effects.....

Niko

[rsw686]

Why are you looking for an alternative to changing out the substrate when you can just leave the substrate alone. You don't need to touch it if your just going to move the tank across the room.