Tank/Sump Maintenance After Back Surgery

[Arcticfirefighter]

Hey everybody, I am having a Lumbar Spinal Fusion next week and will be unable to perform regular tank/sump husbandry like I normally do. My wife is, very reluctantly, taking over this chore. I will have extremely limiting bending, lifting, and twisting restrictions for at least 4-6 months. Has anyone here had back surgery and maybe has some tips or tricks that will allow me to stay involved in the care of my tank? The pics are of the hardware I am having placed in my spine.

 

[Scubabum]

I had a cervical fusion and total disk replacement. I used Brute cans on wheels, pumps and long hoses to avoid lifting. My wife was also reluctant but did a great job at helping me. Good luck on your surgery. Get well soon.

 

[Silent]

Find a way to do automatic water changes and it will make it very easy for you and her.

 

[MrWheelock]

They gave great advice, good luck and get well soon!

 

[Jay Z]

Make sure you do your pre prep. Get out all the equipment and lay it out. Mix or make what ever you can now, plus caster for water containers if needed. Put a good gravel cleaning on it (if you do that) before you go in. Rig any extra pumps and hose if pumping water back in the tank is easier for you.

Remember, sometimes we take care of our tanks a little more than needed. A slower schedule may help the both of you out, and the tank will be fine. Such as a good sand string instead of a full vacuum.

Most importantly, go easy on your wife! She won't be able to do everything you do because of lack of experience and knowledge!

Good luck on the surgery!

 

[Arcticfirefighter]

Find a way to do automatic water changes and it will make it very easy for you and her.

Unfortunately, that's not an option where my tank is. I wish it was though...

 

[Snoopy 67]

Mark the side of the tank with a line @ the point you drop the level to for a water change so she knows where to stop draining. Mark the side of the refill container for water level. Have a pump with a hose for pumping water back. Get a spring clamp to hold the hoses in place while in use.

 

[Arcticfirefighter]

Mark the side of the tank with a line @ the point you drop the level to for a water change so she knows where to stop draining. Mark the side of the refill container for water level. Have a pump with a hose for pumping water back. Get a spring clamp to hold the hoses in place while in use.

Great ideas!! I will definitely do that. I didn't think about her not knowing how much to drain because it's second nature to me. Thanks for the ideas!