How to Use a Gravel Vacuum

A gravel vacuum is an essential part of a clean and healthy aquarium environment. They sweep up fish feces and also remove organic material and debris from the gravel, such as leftover food. Vacuuming your aquarium on a regular basis helps your fish to thrive because of the decrease in the levels of nitrates and ammonia in the water. It isn't necessary to remove your aquarium decorations every time you use a gravel vacuum, but you should do a thorough cleaning, without any decorations, at least every eight weeks.

Things You'll Need

  • 5-gallon bucket
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Instructions

    • 1

      Unplug filters and any other moving machinery in the aquarium. These machines create air bubbles, which may get into the vacuum tube and stop the suction. Turning the power off also prevents the possibility of an electric shock.

    • 2

      Place the open end of the vacuum tube into a 5-gallon bucket to catch the water and gravel that get swept up with the vacuum.

    • 3

      Push the suction end of the vacuum down into the gavel, and then turn it on. Lift the vacuum up above the gravel, moving it slowly as you raise it up. Put your finger over the tip of the vacuum, and push it back down to the bottom of the tank. Remove your finger and bring it back up to the top of the gravel. Continue this process until you have done this all over the entire tank.

    • 4

      Discard the water that was sucked up into the bucket. You can either flush it down the toilet, or pour it in your yard, as it poses no environmental hazards.