tototime

Hello I was looking at this pool filter sand: http://www.acehardwaresuperstore.com...31.html?ref=42

Is this good sand for an aquarium? Is it safe for fish? Will it affect my HOB filter?

Thanks for your time.

harpua2002

Pool filter sand is totally fish safe in my experience. I've used it in 5 or so different aquariums, and currently use it in 2, with great success. You may be able to get it cheaper at a pool supply store, but it just depends on what is in your area.

I have never had any issues with pool filter sand getting into my filters (HOB or canister). If you're worried about it, just buy an Aquaclear HOB media sponge and but it to fit over your intake. Then, cut an X-shaped hole so you can pull it over the intake. Remember to clean it regularly and you're golden.

tototime

Okay thanks. Do you know how to change the substrate out when you already have fish in the tank? What would be the best method?

HN1

Temporarily move the fish to a rubbermaid or another tank and move your filter to it. And make sure you have the whole evening free.

tototime

Haha does it really take that long? I have live plants should I put them with the fish in the rubbermaid bucket?

harpua2002

Yes, you should throw the plants in the Rubbermaid until you get the substrate in the tank. And as far as judging the length of time it will take, it's largely dependent on the size of your tank. I'd recommend rinsing the sand a couple lbs. at a time in a 5 gallon bucket. I've done it in the bathtub every time (why is it always cold outside when I do this?!?) and it works great.

tototime

Okay so just pour in 5 pounds of sand in a bucket and drop some tap water in the bucket? After that would you just pour out the water?

HN1

Yes, sort of. You'll want less sand in the bucket (~1/2) and to run water through it while actively moving it around. Once the dust is reduced you'll be good to put it into the tank. The benefit of pool filter sand vs. play sand is that it rinses a lot easier! Plus it looks good.

harpua2002

It does rinse a lot easier than play sand, and it's heavier (larger grains).

I used a 5 gallon bucket and filled it about halfway with sand. Then I held the bucket under the running water in the bathtub while stirring the sand with my hand, and every so often carefully pour out the dusty looking water. When the water in the bucket starts to clear up, it's ready to go in the tank. If it's a big tank, wear gloves; my hand kinda hurt after rinsing 150 lbs of sand for the 120 gallon!

tototime

LOL I don't have anything nearly that large. I only have a twenty gallon. How many 5 gallon buckets of sand would you recommend for that size?

HN1

It comes in 50lb bags. One bucket.... fill 1/2 full of sand, rinse, pour in tank, repeat. Just use as much as you like in the tank. Depth is really up to you.

navyscuba

in my opinion half bucket is too much remember is better to clean it really well. I did half with mine and I couln't stir mine around to clean it. So I did it in small qty's. Good luck.

chuckyduck

I'm so glad I found this post because I plan on switching to pool filter sand as well. Now I know exactly how to clean the sand. In my case, it will take a long time to add the sand considering I have 3 aquariums (24 gal; 30 gal; 5 gal). But I'm sure my peacock eel will love the sand, and it should look beautiful.

HN1

It shouldn't take too long. Harpua and I rinsed the sand to set up our 120 in less than an hour. (We were in a pinch with fish bagged for a move)

tototime

Okay I bought this sand from my local pool store. Is it okay for use? Also, It says it contains Silica is it safe for fish?

harpua2002

Yes.

aecw

Just a little more input - I switched over to sand in one of my 20 gallons and I didn't move the fish. I hand scooped out at least 2/3 of the gravel and then added the fresh, really well washed sand (I used colored and it took 4 times as long to rinse!) I added a bag then on the next water change added another after removing a little more gravel etc.. It took a couple of months to finally get it done but it seemed like less stress on the fish than moving them. I know people might disagree with me on that but we all know our own fish! My fish seemed to get a kick out of the sandstorm that rained down from above - no one was hurt or annoyed (5 cories & 4 tetras) they were all frisky, playful and very curious during the process
I wish I had known about the sponge trick - I just used a kneehigh pantyhose doubled up and secured around the intake with a twist tie. The sponge seems like it would of been easier to change and rinse.
I will say I didn't get all the gravel out so if you're looking for a really smooth sandy bottom my method won't do - my tank is mostly smooth with a few grains of gravel here and there - it looks very natural despite the color
anyway good luck to any and all who go for the sand!

tototime

Okay just put in the filter sand and wow it is turbid as can be.

Suggestion on how to fix this?

navyscuba

It will clear up within a few hours. make sure you clean ur filter if is on. a little of sand may get into the impeller.

tototime

Okay my filter is still in my rubbermaid holding tank should I now move it to the main tank? Should I do a water change or just leave it?

navyscuba

Leave it to settle down. it will clear up.

tototime

Okay but move the filter and fish over?

navyscuba

I would wait till clear and check if any of you water parameters changed if not you can add the fish. If water parameters change do a wtr change and then add fishies.

tototime

Okay sweet how long would you estimate until the water clears up?

navyscuba

I would say in the morning.

tototime

Okay but place the filter in there now?

navyscuba

No you need to keep your bacteria alive with your fishies. Sorry I was dead tired and passed out. How is it today?

tototime

Much better almost completely cleared up. So, I did some water tests and the coast was clear so I added the fish again.

navyscuba

Cool. Hope it clears a bit more soon.

HN1

Glad to hear things are done. Enjoy the new look!