griffin

lol - dry carpet in the fish area is always a plus :P

TeHpWNaG3

Yes, the faucet is running full-power while the python is operating. The level of suction depends on it, but I do know that the amount of water going down the drain is far less with the python attached than if the faucet was left to run on it's own. It would still be a concern for water-watchers IMHO.

I'll admit that the system was a little intimidating, at first, but it really made water changes a snap since I have 3 tanks to maintain. The hose self-cleans/drains for storage and there was very little-to-no spillage compared to traditional bucket methods. If you have to do more than 2 buckets worth during routine cleaning, this product is for you. Worth the money.

The only drawback I see with this product is the sink attachment. You have to unscrew your sink fitting every time you want to use the python. I bought the quick release fitting and keep it installed full-time. The concern about building-up pressure is real. The system doesn't like sustained high-pressure but I have not had a blowout yet. Just be on-top of things and that won't happen. Other than that, there are no leaks and the products is very well made. My old gravel vacuum pales in comparison in terms of quality AND function.

Someone mentioned that there was a lack of suction. I did notice this myself, however, I believe it was by design--to empty less water. Actually, the suction is very good if you let the pressure build up momentarily. Dig the vacuum nozzle deep into the gravel and, with help from a little "backpressure" from the substrate, the gravel soon lifts and the debris flows through the hose just like a regular gravel vacuum. The suction lets off a bit when you pull back on the hose, releasing the gravel. You can hear the pressure difference at the sink when you do this and you'll feel the same thing when you cover your hand over the vacuum. Best thing, though, you can turn it off without having to remove it from the tank. Repositioning the nozzle no longer requires a panic move in order to get to the next spot! The only time the python leaves the tank is when the job is DONE (cleaned & filled).

FYI...When I start re-filling the tank I pour in the water conditioner at the same time. I've read other forums where the pros had no problem with this and I've never had a positive reading right after the fill either.

If you are still on the fence, all you have to know is that I cut my water change time by a third (and I was a bucket haulin' fool!). It is an absolute joy when compared to the old ways. Especially, if you have a problematic tank that requires daily water changes!

mlinden84

I got the Python a month ago and I LOVE it! If you have more than 1 tank to do or have a big tank, it will save you time (and your back! no more lifted buckets!) Definately worth the price, it no longer makes water changes seem like a chore.

Trpimp147

does it suck air out of the line? on its own?

mlinden84

To get the python to suck up the water, you turn the faucet on all the way and open up the valve. This creates suction, which pulls air (or water) through the vacuum and hose.

Trpimp147

i thought so but, but when your not for sure you have to ask right? i thought you may have to prim it your self or somthing like that.

Allie

The Python is one of the greatest inventions EVER...so worth the money.

armadillo

this is the eternal discussion, sorry to bring it back up but.... (playing devil's advocate here)

If you must put untreated water in the tank with the python, and some people get around that by pre-treating the water that's already in the tank...

then why am I paranoid about pouring as much as a little cup of untreated water in my tank?

Allie

Our big tank has been up for nearly a year...so there is more cured water in the tank than the tap water. I believe in treating the water when you don' t have a cultured tank. We used a water conditioner for a long time. The little tanks I only use the python for emptying...then use the water we have in a filtered rubber maid container...or I take it from the big tank.

armadillo

What's a cultured tank? Like one with an established nitrogen cycle and all that?

So you dont' use water conditionner any more?

Allie

A Cultured tank has lots of different types of algae...a tank set up for at least 2 years is truly "established" from what my bf's been reading. Real plants help that happen faster. If you have a large tank you can take the good water from there to use in the new tanks...so we don't use conditioner at all now. I find now that we do use the 120g water...less fish loss. With the exception to the angels I lost this year. Sometimes we set the tank up a few days or week before hand let it run for a bit add plants...then add fish. No problems as of so far. You can use dirty sponges or filter on a newly filled tank and it'll get some of the good stuff in the tank.

armadillo

Oh, I see. Intereseting about the 2 years.

But what about the chlorine/chloramine in the tap water? No matter how much algae/how many plants, that could still be a problem, couldn't it?

Allie

I guess it could be depending on the size of the tank...we haven't had any problems at all. In fact we had good luck with most of our fish. The 120g and 30s are the only ones we actually let water right from the tap in...so 25% water in that size of a tank must not hurt it. With the Betta tanks I have used the water that we leave sitting around in a filtered container. The chlorine/chloramine is filtered out. I guess it would also depend on how much chlorine is in the tap water.

Trpimp147

my town doesnt put clor. in the water as kids they gave us pills to help our bones grow. kinda like vits. so i dont have to really treat my water but i do any way just in case some thing other is in the water.

TeHpWNaG3

I believe that's calcium. Chlorine prevents bacterial growth. I would bet my tank water that your local water supply has WAY MORE chemicals than you think! Most are negligible though.

Speaking of Chlorine and Chloramines, I live in Milwaukee, Wisconsin and we do have top-notch public works. I test only a miniscule amount of both compounds in my tap water, so adding water conditioner straight to the tank isn't as harsh as it would seem. I would recommend that everyone should get baseline stats on their tap water and adjust their solution usage accordingly.

One other thing I like about the Python system... you can cut the hose to a custom length which makes coiling and storing much easier. ;-)

MudHog

I don't have the Python model, but mine is very similar and is blue in color. Anyone can make their own. This same exact setup is used by people who have waterbeds. Mine is actually the same exact, name and all, that my in-laws have at their house for their water bed. I've never had one, but water beds need water changes as well.


I no longer use my faucet to siphon out my water. I don't like the fact of using water to siphon water. I either run my house out the window and into the yard and start cleaning or run it into the sink. I do notice better suction going out the window as the elevation change more as opposed to going in the sink. Then I connect it up to the sink to refill.


Great product I must say. I did see the little primer bulb that can be used instead of sucking on the end of the hose. I may get one of them as now I have to go outside, suck the end to get the siphon going and then come inside to clean. The other way I just pump the bulb and the siphon starts, all while being inside by the tank.

Skyline

I bought one but its from Lee, its called the ultimate gravel vac, its a great tool and I use it all the time. Much easier than carrying buckets to and fro, also it fills up much quicker than using a bucket.

Great item, worth the purchase.

MissMTS

I have been thinking about spending the money on a python. Does the height of your sink in comparison to the height of your aquarium matter? I heard somewhere that it did. Maybe this is a dumb question.......