I went to a lfs to get a python and was recommended the Marina Easy Clean. Sadly it does not work as the guy said it would. I am now looking for a good vac/python that i don't need to attach to a faucet. My tanks are a ways from my kitchen sink so i use buckets. I was hoping someone would know of one that would work for me. My tanks are only ten gallons so it does not need to be big. Thanks in advance for the help.:help:
The instructions said to get it started i should move the vac up and down until there is suction. I never got any suction, no matter how long i stood there tried.
when you turn on a source of water, connected to the end of the python hose, it creates a syphon for you (instead of sucking air, and letting gravity do the work) the flow of the water (from your faucet) does the work+gravity (of syphon).
I have a 50ft one, it works great.
It has a open/close valve to keep the water in the tube, if you need to move around and lift the tube out of the water.
for you're 10 gal tank, i think just mixing all your (plantless) gravel is faster then a vacuum.
also, if your vacuum (point a) is lower then the end of the tube (point b), then you MUST use the faucet for it to do work, as gravity will not help you at all (actually you'll have to work against it).
Stick the vac part in the water. Put the other end in your mouth and suck until you notice the water moving along the tube on its own. Then place the end into your bucket.
It's obviously risky because if you are not careful enough you can end up with a mouthful of dirty tank water. The first time I tried this, I almost threw up from inhaling a bunch of salt water. :yuck:
You have to lower the entire vacuum tube to a horizontal position under the surface of the water. Lower enough of the small tubing, too, so that it is under the water, then swiftly lift up the vacuum tube, leaving the suction end under the water while allowing the tubing side of the vacuum tube to lift up, and bring the small tube line with water in it up over the edge quickly so a sufficient quantity of water (in the tubing) will start flowing and start the siphon process.
I don't know how to describe this more clearly.... sigh. It is a royal pain. Sometimes I give up and just suck on the end, lol. ( I do try to rinse and clean it really good so I'm not getting any residue of fish doo doo water on my lips, plus you have to be really quick to drop/place the line into the bucket so you don't get fish doo doo water in your mouth, too)
Well i have been looking at a python but i would need close to 70ft of hose and that isnt exactly cheap to buy. i was just hoping there was another one that would actually work. i think i might just get a python. seems like everyone likes them. i just done want it to drain my tank to fast.
If you're not getting suction in the shake and vac, the vac may be too big, you need to be able to totally submerse the shake and vac to get it to work right.
It's obviously risky because if you are not careful enough you can end up with a mouthful of dirty tank water. The first time I tried this, I almost threw up from inhaling a bunch of salt water. :yuck:
