How to Build Siphon for a Saltwater Aquarium

A siphon, also syphon, is an essential tool to have available when cleaning your saltwater aquarium. When you have a siphon, water can be easily removed from the aquarium, which results less mess. The flexible tubing or hose should be transparent and a half inch in diameter. These specifications will help you see where the water is in the hose and if something is blocking the hose from pulling water from the aquarium. The tube will continue to drain water as long as the end of the tube is lower than the intake end.

Things You'll Need

  • Flexible tubing or hose
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Instructions

    • 1

      Place one end of the tube into the aquarium. Ensure that the tube is placed into the gravel or sand.

    • 2

      Place your mouth on the opposite end of the tube. Carefully suck on the end of the hose to get the water flowing.

    • 3

      Cover the end of the tubing with your thumb once the water is near the end. This process will create a vacuum to prevent the water from returning to the tank.

    • 4

      Place the end of the tube into a bucket or sink (if it can reach). Ensure that the end of the tube that is in the aquarium stays near or in the gravel or sand.

    • 5

      Remove your thumb from the end of the hose. The water will begin to flow into the bucket or sink.

    • 6

      Raise the tube above the intake end once the aquarium reaches the appropriate level. This step will stop the water from leaving the tank.