Freshwater

234
Part III: Water, Chemicals, and Plants
Equipment Problems
If you want your aquarium to function properly, you need to keep your equipment
running properly. Here are a few common equipment problems and
their solutions.
Fixing a clogged filter
It’s very important to have a clean filter. Be sure to do these things:
If your filter uses pads, rinse them under used tank water that you have
removed from the tank and placed in a clean bucket.
If you are using an undergravel filter, vacuum the gravel.
Clean all tubes with a filter-cleaning brush.
Analyzing heater problems
Heaters have a way of conking out: Here are some ideas for fixing them:
If the tank is not staying the proper temperature, make sure you have
enough wattage for your aquarium. (Quick rule of thumb: 5 watts per
gallon.)
If you have the correct wattage, make sure the heater is not covered
by plants or other decorations that will stop the flow of warm water
throughout the tank.
If all else fails, replace the heater.
Lighting falling into the tank
You wouldn’t believe how often this happens. Do this if it does:
1. Put on a rubber kitchen glove (kept in your fish kit!) and unplug the
lighting.
2. Remove the lighting from the tank and allow it to completely dry
before plugging it back in. Never remove a light that is underwater
and plugged in!