Removing Deep Sandbed Help

cpalminteri · Feb 22, 2023

I have a 55 gal tank that has a deep sandbed maybe 3-4 inches. I think this was affecting my nitrates as they were at about 100. Water changes and removing some of the sand a bit a time has gotten me down to 31. Currently in removing a little sand with my weekly water changes. I’m worried I may release gasses that will nuke my tank. Will I be okay only removing a little once a week or do you think I will eventually hit the deeper part of the sand and nuke it by releasing gasses. Removing the fish to do this isn’t an option.

Saltyreef · Feb 22, 2023

cpalminteri said:
I have a 55 gal tank that has a deep sandbed maybe 3-4 inches. I think this was affecting my nitrates as they were at about 100. Water changes and removing some of the sand a bit a time has gotten me down to 31. Currently in removing a little sand with my weekly water changes. I’m worried I may release gasses that will nuke my tank. Will I be okay only removing a little once a week or do you think I will eventually hit the deeper part of the sand and nuke it by releasing gasses. Removing the fish to do this isn’t an option.

Rip clean the sand......

Rinse and replace. No need to get rid of it.

Fish Styx · Feb 22, 2023

You'll be fine. That is not a true DSB. Pull the sand out a section at a time and rinse it clean. Attached is a picture of my remote DSB in my mangrove fuge. If that were disturbed, I would be concerned.

EeyoreIsMySpiritAnimal · Feb 22, 2023

cpalminteri said:
I have a 55 gal tank that has a deep sandbed maybe 3-4 inches. I think this was affecting my nitrates as they were at about 100. Water changes and removing some of the sand a bit a time has gotten me down to 31. Currently in removing a little sand with my weekly water changes. I’m worried I may release gasses that will nuke my tank. Will I be okay only removing a little once a week or do you think I will eventually hit the deeper part of the sand and nuke it by releasing gasses. Removing the fish to do this isn’t an option.

You will be fine with what you've been doing. A true deep sand bed is 5+ inches. Just move slowly and if you feel you may have done too much, run carbon for a day or 2.