Gravel vac

[SmallFishi]

suck on the tube end to create a siphon (just a bit don't drink it) and then use the larger end to smooch around the gravel it will suck up bits of poop and debris without sucking up the rocks, it will hold a bunch of rocks but you can just pull it along and they will fall out.

 

[Importskyline22]

just did a watr change yesterday. The gravel vac did not really do anything, did not make it easier. I thought they are electronic. I had to scoop up the water and hold the tube so the water could flow downwards. It was the same if not harder than a WC without it.

Lol.

The regular gravel vac is not supposed to make things easier you just need to to clean the nastyness from the gravel and to get a certin percentage of water out of your tank so you can put fresh water into it.

You said its not "easier". Then trying take a drinking glass and scooping the water into the bucket. And thats not gonna clean your gravel.

I hope to be buying a python for my 55G!

 

[snickle]

Try this one:

http://www.petco.com/Shop/Product.aspx?R=3601&Nav=1&N=0&Ntt=gravel+vac&sku=538485&familyID=6608&

Good for us who do not want to suck on a hose.

Just need to buy a length of hose. It work even after you turn off the motor. Siphon Action.

 

[emmaS]

Hendrix,

I did the exact same thing in the beginning, just swished and then scooped the water out with the tube using it like a long cup. Then at the LFS they did a demo for me and it was great! The gravel vac really does such like a vacuum and boy is it fast! I filled up a pail real quick.

Here's what I learned.

1. Make sure to the tube as it comes out of the tank stays close to the tank, not looped high up over the edge. (hard to explain)

2. Tape or clip the end tube into the bucket. I think it helps if there is some water (from the tank--not from the sink unless dechlorinated) in the bottom of the bucket. Place the end of the tube in the water. They did not tell me to do this at the store but it's something I noticed. Make sure the bucket rests on the floor and not on a chair or table.

3. Move the tube up and down rapidly. It may take several attempts but it will suck. When you move it up and down don't move it side to side. Try to move it up and down only and right above gravel level.

Seriously, ask how they do it at the fish store. If you go near closing time they may be doing it anyway and you can watch and learn.

 

[didy]

I had trouble getting the suction going at first, too. What I have found works the best is using one of those small nasal aspirators that are used for infant babies. It has a tip and gradually goes into a ball that you squeeze. Mine was free, because it was sent home from the hospital with us when I had my last child.

Gets the suction started!