Water Changes????

[adamfinke]

I had a 55 and 72 gal fish only tanks and only topped off my water, I never did water changes like others. I have a new 90gal reef corals and fish that Im moving today at 8am. All I hear about is water changes every week or two. If I mix up water how long will it last in a 30gal trash can?? Do you need to do water changes if everything is doing well and water tests are ok?

 

[CoralObsessions]

Some people swear they don't do them but I've always done 10% a week minimum, regardless of what the tests say. It's very debatable.

 

[IBEW41]

I do 15-20% every 2 weeks or my sps dont look as good

 

[adamfinke]

I guess it all depends on your tank setup. Thanks for the info.

 

[BigJohnWoody]

It really depends on your individual setup. I run a fuge with chaeto and can keep my Nitrates at 0, which I believe is the number one reason do water changes. It can be very hard to get rid of Nitrates without water changes. I guess I just got lucky. I however still do 10% water changes every week. I skim very wet and run 24/7 carbon and gfo. So I figure I'm pulling a lot of stuff outta my tank including beneficial trace elements. Putting fresh water changes in my tank gives me peace of mind that all the corals are getting the proper nutrients they need to stay healthy and thrive. I also have never had to supplement dose mag. I believe because of my weekly changes.

 

[Paul_N]

I would say for anyone starting in hobby, Yes definitely do regular water changes.

" if everything is doing well and water tests are ok" One thing you don't want to do is wait till tests are off and everything is not doing ok.