Get Maintenance Accessories for Fish in Chester

A healthy fish tank means healthy and happy fish. The Grooming Place Pet Shop in Chester, MD has all the tools and the devices to keep that tank in great shape. Our staff has the experience and knowledge to answer your questions regarding fish tank upkeep and help you choose the right products to make the task a breeze.

Anybody can maintain a tidy and healthy fish tank. It's not a challenging task, but it does call for regular attention and the right supplies. There are daily and weekly tasks in addition to the essential job of tank cleaning with partial water adjustments.

Each day, after you feed your fish, remove uneaten food after about five minutes. Also, inspect your fish to ensure they are healthy and are behaving normally. Lastly, it's important to check the water temperature. Each week, check the pH, nitrite, nitrate, and ammonia levels. If it's a saltwater tank, check the salinity. Also, check out equipment such as lights and filters to see that everything is functioning effectively.

How often should you clean the tank? How much of the water do you need to replace? It depends on the size of the tank, the variety of fish, and whether it's saltwater. Generally, you need to swap out 10-20% of the water every one to three weeks. 

Follow these steps in your routine cleaning:

Prepare replacement water. If you use tap water, use a water filter to eliminate toxic substances. For saltwater, you'll need special reverse osmosis/deionized water.

Unplug electrical components & remove large accessories.

Siphon water into a container. Siphon along the gravel to remove the waste that builds up there. If you properly manage the flow with your thumb or a built-in regulator, waste will be sucked out and gravel will fall back into the tank.

Remove algae. Use an algae-cleaning tool to help.

Clean your filter. For filters such as a sponge, ceramic rings, and fiber, wash them in the water you removed and quickly reinstall} them to avoid losing crucial microorganisms. Filters that contain carbon and other absorbers will need to be regularly replaced.

Add the replacement water.

Clean your tank's outside with a proper cleaner and towel.

As you can see, the best devices and products are essential. Luckily, The Grooming Place Pet Shop in Chester, MD understands what's needed and is your one-stop-shop for all your tank maintenance needs. Call (410) 643-8760 or stop by our store today!