6 Tips for Maintaining Your Aquarium to Keep It Clean and Beautiful
Having a hobby of keeping ornamental fish in an aquarium is undoubtedly enjoyable. However, do you know that maintaining the cleanliness of the aquarium is equally important? Are you the type who diligently cleans the aquarium, or are you the type who only waits for the aquarium to get very dirty first?
Let's change the habit of keeping your aquarium clean. By following the following tips, which are easy to do, your aquarium will look beautiful again, and your pet fish will also be happy. Let's check them out!
1. Regularly Change Aquarium Water
Changing aquarium water regularly is crucial for maintaining water clarity and the health of your fish. Replace the aquarium water at least once a week to keep it clear.
The yellowing of aquarium water is not only caused by leftover food turning into waste, but also by fish waste.
When changing the aquarium water, one thing to note is that you should prepare new water one day before changing it in the aquarium. This is done to prevent the fish from getting stressed as they adapt to the new tap or well water.
2. Use a Filter to Keep the Water Clear
Filters are the most commonly used natural water clarifiers by ornamental fish enthusiasts. This tool is a must-have if you keep fish in an aquarium.
The benefits of using a water filter are to clarify the water, maintain water circulation, filter out impurities, and provide oxygen to the fish. The aquarium water filter should run continuously for 24 hours to filter out impurities and clarify the water.
3. Feed Fish in Moderation
Feeding our pet fish is, of course, essential for their survival and growth. However, don't forget to provide the right portion for your pet fish.
Instead of making the fish healthier, your aquarium may become dirty due to the waste from uneaten fish food. Your fish may also become bored and overfed because they have to finish all the excess food.
4. Use Charcoal to Clean Aquarium Water
Charcoal can be one natural way to clarify aquarium water, and it's very easy to do. You only need to place a piece of charcoal in the water filter box. Use only one piece of charcoal to clean the water filter. Charcoal content helps clarify the water and remove chlorine.
Then, check the charcoal regularly and replace it if it becomes brittle. This is to avoid charcoal particles from entering the aquarium and making the water turn black.
5. Replace Sponge or Filter Cotton Periodically
If you use an aquarium water clarifier, you should also regularly maintain this filter. One of the parts of the filter that needs cleaning is the sponge or filter cotton and the filter hose. Regularly cleaning the hose will keep the water clarity intact.
The sponge serves as the final impurity filter, so it becomes a breeding ground for bacteria. The filter hose is the passage for water and impurities, and it will become dirty and slimy if not cleaned.
6. Keep It Away from Direct Sunlight
If your aquarium appears green and dirty, it may be due to algae. Algae can grow and photosynthesize when exposed to direct sunlight continuously. Therefore, place the aquarium in a location that is not exposed to direct and continuous sunlight.