Python & Other Vacuum Tubes

Hello Everyone,

I have been using a regular vacuum tube to empty water out of my 20 gallon tank for a few years now. I've looked into the Python as well, but there is one issue I'm noticing and I hope I haven't been doing this wrong. I'm just afraid the same problem will occur with the Python and I want to see if this is happening to others as well.

I've been using the same vacuum tube since I've started my tank and I've noticed for a long time now that the tube has some black growth inside and I'm not sure if it's mold or algae. After every use, I just coil it up back in my bucket and I don't really air dry it (are we supposed to air dry the tube?). I've read before that it's not harmful to the fish as long as you don't let the water in the tube flow back into the tank. Any advice at all on this?

Much appreciated!

 

If you only use it to remove water then it won't matter. If you use it to move water from one tank to another or to fill a tank with new water then I would suggest cleaning it. The easiest way is to fill a bucket with warm water and add baby bottle sterilizer tablets. Leave it in the water for 30 mins then rinse well in a bucket of fresh water. While you've got a bucket of sterilizer you may as well put your net, tongs etc in as well.

 

I have had a python for about a year now all I do is put the vacuum side in the tub and coil it from the other end. This forces all the water out and prevents any algae from forming.

 

I have had a python for about a year now all I do is put the vacuum side in the tub and coil it from the other end. This forces all the water out and prevents any algae from forming.

Thanks Woodsman!

If you only use it to remove water then it won't matter. If you use it to move water from one tank to another or to fill a tank with new water then I would suggest cleaning it. The easiest way is to fill a bucket with warm water and add baby bottle sterilizer tablets. Leave it in the water for 30 mins then rinse well in a bucket of fresh water. While you've got a bucket of sterilizer you may as well put your net, tongs etc in as well.

Thanks Heron!

 

I think it's mold. I get it too. Used to worry about it till I saw a professional fish breeder who was renowned for breeding Cory Cats and his hoses had more black spots on the inside than mine do.

Still, I try to get all the water out of the hoses before I store them - and I usually run hot water through them before I use them again.

 

I've been using an Aqueon water changer for close to 2.5 years and when I finish my drain and fill I run just hot water through it for an extra 2 minutes to clear any unwanted "things" from clinging to the inside of the tube and it still looks pretty much as clear as the day I got it.