Keeping the temperature constant with Water Changes

[twb716]

Does anyone know of a good guage or thermometer for measuring the temperature of the water coming out of the tap? I want to make sure that my temp is kept constant when I do water changes. Can't find what I need anywhere, and I have searched all of the hardware stores, pet stores, and pool/spa stores in the area. Ideas? Thanks.

TB

 

[xytrix01]

Try a photography supply store. There are thermometers that were inline with the running water in our highschool photo lab. The temp in some of the developing processes needs to be exact. You might look there.

 

[OrionGirl]

Any particular reason for fixating on the temparature? Small fluctuations are not harmful to fish, and indeed encourage many species to spawn. My change water is typically 5 to 10 degrees cooler than the tanks, and I've never had a problem, even with fussy fish like puffers. A typical sized water change won't vary the temp in the main tank very much.

Other option--get a new, clean trash can to store the water, and use a heater in there.

 

[aquariumfishguy]

I am going out on a limb here, but I strongly oppose water changes of 10-degree differences. I have seen fish become very ill after water changes of that enormity. It really depends on which fish you’re talking about, but I would say if your fish wouldn’t normally experience such a decline in temperature in the wild, do not attempt to practice this in your aquarium. Many people will argue that water in a lake or ocean changes all the time, and that there are pockets of cooler/warmer water. While this may be true, you cannot compare a massive body of water with your 50 or even 100-gallon aquarium.

EDIT – I read where OG mentioned this shouldn’t affect your tank that much with a regular water change. I’m not sure what “regular” is, but I do water changes of 50-60%, so I don’t think that would work for me personally.

 

[Tiger15]

When I refill my tank in water change, I use my hand to feel the water coming out of the tap and adjust accordingly to match the tank water temperature. I don't use the thermonmeter but at the end the final temperature is within plus and minus 2 degrees of the steady temperature, and often less. I am talking about 75% water change, not a small one. Many years ago I used a thermometer to precisely match the tap water temperature prior to filling, but soon realized that it was overkilling because fresh water fish often experience drastic water temperature changes in the wild in rainstorms or just swimming through natural thermocline. On a practical matter, you cannot adjust the tap water to stay at steady temperature throughout the water refilling because the water heater won't let you.

 

[750t]

I use the back of my hand, like tiger. Works for me I'm usually within 2 or 3 degrees. This is on a 150 gal with a 50% water change.

 

[aquariumfishguy]

I use one of those instant reads. It checks the temperature within 8 seconds. I like using this when I first start the tap water. If it were to change a couple degrees here and there, I do not suppose this would have a huge impact... but that 10 degrees would make me too uncomfortable.

 

[125gJoe]

I am going out on a limb here, but I strongly oppose water changes of 10-degree differences. I.....

I agree and would never attempt that with my Discus. We use $5 to $6 digital temperature probes. They read the temp quickly and accurately.

You can find them at Walgreens, WalMart, etc.. even online..

 

[twb716]

Thanks for your input, everyone. Here's what I will probably be using. I will have to rig something up with PVC/hose connections, but I think it will work just fine:

http://www.indoorhealthproducts.com/100-stem.htm

Thanks again.

TB

 

[Captain Hook]

I just take the thermometer out of the tank and drop it in the bucket of new water coming from the tap. First I use my hand to get it within a couple degrees.