How to Empty an Aquarium

If you need to empty your aquarium to move its location, take proper precautions to safeguard your fish. Otherwise, you run the risk that some of them won't be able to survive the stress.

Things You'll Need

  • Aquarium Fish Nets
  • Gravel Vacuums
  • Plastic Bags
  • Coolers
  • Large Bucket
  • Plastic bags
Show More

Instructions

    • 1

      First remove the fish and place them in bags partially filled with water.

    • 2

      Keep the fish in the dark so they will stay as calm as possible during this change.

    • 3

      Add pure oxygen to the bags if the fish will be in them for longer than an hour.

    • 4

      Remove coral and decorations next. Keep these accessories in buckets with water from the tank so they will stay wet.

    • 5

      Be sure not to clean anything inside the tank right immediately. This removes necessary bacteria that protects the fish and could put them in danger.

    • 6

      Wait at least a week before cleaning the filter or accessories until the fish have had a chance to adjust again.

    • 7

      Have the salt water you will need to replace in the tank ready and waiting a day in advance.

    • 8

      Save as much of the original water as you can by siphoning it into the buckets.

    • 9

      Store it in these buckets until you can put it back into the tank again.

    • 10

      Remember when you return the fish back into the tank you must not reuse the water in their bags.