Siphoning Water Out of Aquarium
How to Perform a Partial Water Change
A partial water change is one of the easiest ways to keep your Living Oceans aquarium healthy and balanced.
We recommend replacing 25 to 50% of the aquarium's water during a scheduled water change. While you're removing water, it's also the perfect opportunity to siphon out excess algae, organic waste, and uneaten food.
Before You Begin
Prepare the area before starting any maintenance.
We recommend:
- laying towels around the aquarium to protect the floor
- collecting a 50 to 100 mL water sample first if you need one for testing
- switching off all power to the aquarium
- washing your hands or wearing aquarium-safe gloves if you have sensitive skin
Next, remove the mesh lid and carefully lift the aquarium light, allowing it to hang safely from its cable while you work.
Setting Up the Siphon
To make water changes safer, place your 20-litre bucket inside a larger bucket. This acts as secondary containment in case of spills.
Set up the siphon by:
- attaching the gooseneck to the aquarium with the valve closed
- positioning the hose about halfway down the aquarium
- placing the pump inside the 20-litre bucket
- checking that the hose has no kinks
Positioning the hose halfway down the tank provides an extra layer of protection. If the siphon is accidentally left running, it can only drain approximately half the aquarium.
Priming the Siphon
To start the siphon:
- Add around 3 litres of tap water to the bucket to prime the hose.
- Open the valve on the gooseneck.
- Run the pump for 5 to 10 seconds.
- Turn off the pump and allow the siphon to continue drawing water naturally.
As the water drains, use the siphon to remove debris from the sand bed and around the aquarium.
Never Leave a Running Siphon Unattended
Always stay with the aquarium while the siphon is operating.
Never leave the room or become distracted while water is draining.
When the bucket reaches 15 litres, close the valve to stop the siphon.
Remove the full bucket, empty it, then place it back inside the larger bucket. Leave the hose primed so you can continue the next cycle until you've removed the required amount of water.
Refilling the Aquarium
Once you've completed the water change, refill the aquarium using freshly prepared saltwater following the recommended mixing procedure.
For step-by-step instructions, watch our Saltwater Mixing and Filling support guide.
With regular partial water changes and careful siphoning, you'll help maintain excellent water quality and a stable, thriving reef ecosystem.