If you’re having trouble achieving crystal clear aquarium water, I can help! Download my Free ebook with the best tips and advice - KaveManAquatics.com/Free-Ebook
@@musuddin1711 Do you have a pleco? If not get one! Then do a black out for a week, no light or food! But first do 50% water change and scrub as much off as you can, then lights out!
@@simona4442 from UK too, it's definitely the most watchable channel and I like it as he also points out mistakes he made which is good to hear. Sometimes explaining what went wrong is loads more helpful than just telling everyone what to do. Im watching this because im going to try a planted cichlid tank but used a soil underneath about 4cm of gravel, I didn't know they could dig all the way to the bottom of the tank, so now I need to swap out 30kg of substrate in my 240L//70+G tank...
Also, I wanted to offer a cool lil tip that I used when I transferred my sand substrate to a bigger tank. Instead of that plastic scooper. I used a plastic dust pan. Works awesome, fills up the dust pan with a lot of sand, but best part is, if you just tilt the dust pan back, all the water drains out the handle, leaving it full of just wet sand but no loose water. I never new that dust pans have a drain on the handle till recent!💪
Every time I move I use a clean dustpan for a broom to scoop up the substrate, works really well and you can scoop out a ton at once even into the corners
I dare say that when one does what one does well (your "TH-cam Series)and presents it for consumption in an easy to understand and in an informative/educational format that is presented with both a knowledgeable enthusiasm and with a most enjoyable demeanor; KUDOS to you from me and my four budding aquarist grand-children.
Hey Kev. I wanna thank you for inspiring me to get back into the hobby. I was done when I kept losing fish. You brought the passion in fish keeping for me. I have a 55 gallon now. Looking to upgrade to a 90 gallon. Just stacking my supplies now. Thanks again. My All male peacock coming soon
Thanks for the tips. I made the mistake years ago and didn't put enough substrate in, now I'm adding little by little along with quick start so I don't get a bad bacteria bloom. It helps a bunch.
I changed my substrate out for aragonite back a while ago and saw a tip for using a juice or pop liter container to put the rinsed aragonite slurry in, then put it in the tank with water and it pours out without clouding up. It worked. Great videos Kev.
I had to do the same thing for the same problem. To get the sand out I took a hose like you hook to your pump ran it outside into a bucket and started a siphon. Sucked all the sand out. Worked like a charm and didn't cloud up the water.
Bro feel your pain, had to do this about 6 months ago, a Royal Pain in The Butt. Takes an age to get your head around doing it and then an age doing it, but well worth it. Good Job!!!
Tonight I switched my substrate from white gravel to the African Cichlid sand and Aragonite in my 125. Thanks for everything Kev I’m leaving a lot. Thinking about investing in your course to go to the next level.
I did this one time and luckily not on the big tanks but I used new and rinsed Dusk pan, and a Tip to those who wants to change their big tank's gravel to sand use new and rinsed Cat litter scoop.
Thanks Ben! I had just added some stability into my filters a few weeks ago, that and the live bacteria in the sand made me feel confident in the BB 😊 Thanks for sharing that tip though! Love your channel Ben 👍
Using live bacteria sand that’s made for salt water doesn’t help. The bb for salt water doesn’t survive in fresh water and can cause an imbalance in your cycle from the bacteria die off.
Hey Kevin. I'm glad you gave in and removed the substrate. A lot times people don't want to make changes because of the money involved. I was telling the Ha Y in fish keeper, I will always have back ups for everything that keeps my tank operating. I learned my lesson the hard way. I was brand new in the hobby. I lost (3) 10" Oscars and (2) 8" goldfish because my filter stopped working and I had no mean of getting another one. I did all I could to save them. AnyWHO, I learned too, my tank wasn't nearly big enough for such big fish. It was a 55 gallon. But the goldfish wasn't supposed to be in there. They were supposed to be food. ( I never saw them eat the goldfish) Thanks Kevin.
I just suck out the substrate out with the 25’ python cleaning tool. Works like a charm, now I only have a tiny bit left in the tank, of course this was each time I did a water change, so it took about 3-4 months
Hi kav glad to see the video we are upgrading to a 90 gallons and I was going to use the same substrate in my old tank in my new tank well I guess I’m not now We will wait until after Christmas to place our order for a new substrate for the new tank thank you so much
I did this 2 days back in my 90G, switched from white to black substrate. After looking at the result, l just forgot the painful process. Some forums and TH-camrs insisted about cichlid showing vibrant colors in black substrate since they change their color pattern based on their surrounding. And it really worked.
@@KaveManAquatics yeah I was also thinking that way like how a substrate color decides the fishes color, but it's their natural instinct to survive it seems. For about 2 months I did a research kev, testing it in my 40G. Even I left the fishes without substrate since my tank bottom is itself black that also made a difference. So I gave it a shot in my 90G and yeah I'm glad that it worked becoz I can't do this process again to switching white😂
Thats unfortunate brotha. Atleast you figured it out and acted fast. I've been through the same with black sand and my water still had a black tint after washing my sand for a few hours. Like you said wouldn't even wish this upon your own enemy. Always touching important parts of the fish hobby!! Lets goooo💪
I'm in this exact position now! Thanks for the video. Just waiting for my new substrate to be delivered and then the fun can begin! Got my new tank set up and the sand particles have been ruining my enjoyment
Tank looks beautiful. That is a complete drag but I think you just keep in mind the end result and the look and happiness of our guys. So it was worth the work. Awesome tank! Now if only my little guys would grow up!
I’ve given up on sand substrates. Recently I replaced the white sand in my 40gal. tank with 30 lbs. of mixed river gravel. The water has never been clearer and the gravel is so much easier to keep clean. The only real change is having to treat water levels more often, but chemical bacteria really helps balance that out. I wouldn’t use sand unless I cared for exotic fish professionally.
I love your info... and the way you put it out... but I won't EVER share your obsession with sparkling water. I want it clean and comfy for my critters... but you go to the MAX. A++ for the effort... and results. You are an aquarium ROCK STAR
@@KaveManAquatics I think that's the thing people miss about the Aquarium hobby... every person gets to build a tank... or tanks... to fit their own tastes and purposes. It really allows for individuality to shine through. I see a million people searching for ONE answer... when they need to realize... there are a MILLION answers to one question... its all relative to your goals and situation.
yooo Kev i JUST switched to pool filter sand and rushed it, switched from 70lbs of gravel to 70lbs of pool filter sand in about 2 hrs before I had to leave for work. Rinsed it thoroughly the best I could with what I have (large basin with powerful faucet, no garden hose plus it's winter here now) and after watching this video all I have to say is LOL wish me luck. Most of my fish are south american cichlids and not fully grown yet so....hopefully i don't end up with 1 month of cloudy water!
Hey Kev. I decided to swap my pool filter substrate out for river sand for my Mbuna tank. Thanks for the video. It was super helpful! However, maybe you can use this tip. I used a standard clear hose (no attachments, just hose) to create a syphon and vacuum out the old gravel. Man it worked like a charm!! There was almost no cloudy water during this process and the fish were super chilled. Maybe give that a go for your next change. Just make sure that the hose is wide enough to not get blockages.
I wouldn't wish that on my worst enemy, either! That is a huge job. Glad you got it sorted out. Your tank is beautiful! My husband wants to know how Flava Flav is doing! 😁
Even though its a year later, thank you for this video. It's been years since I've kept fish. I put together a medium freshwater community a month ago. All my parameters are great but I couldn't figure out why my water wasn't clear until I saw this video. It looks like the same sand substrate I purchased. I'll be slowly taking it out and replacing it as I do my water changes.
Thanks for the videos, they helped me a lot. I’m 6 weeks into this new hobby. Funny this substrate change reminds me of car mods I did previously without proper research. I ended up changing it all out again later again as it made the car handle worse than before lol
Glad it helped, and yea it would suck replacing things in a car too lol Check out this playlist I made for beginners, it'll be very helpful for you - th-cam.com/play/PLP5OXTIIDO8NYvhUHAmwAd54WFmS4d8er.html
Awesome 😎 Once again I was looking for the best Substate for my Tank. I’m just getting all the needed Materials for my Tank, Not gonna get the fish 🐟 until next week Thank Bro, for the Great content , keep up the good Work
Hey kev! Your tanks are amazing! Hey I was wondering if you think I should switch my substrate years ago when I first set my tank up I had South American cichlids, but now I have all frontosa. Originally, when I set the tank up, I used play sand and as you know that does nothing when it comes to buffering the pH my tab order has a neutral pH at about 7.0- 7.2 I am considering switching out the play sand going with agronite I have a 200 gallon aquarium do you think it is worth the hassle because my fish are very healthy but like you said I don’t want them to survive I want them to thrive😀?
Hey Kev, thanks for all the videos here. Always helpful. A few months ago I settled up my 55gal with Jack Dempseys and black sand. I’m planning to change this black substrate for this one in your video because, for one reason, my Dempseys got a dark color so almost don’t see them. What’s your opinion? Would my tank have a better look? Thank you.
Bro..same issue size of the grain...started getting into my fx6..now im gonna black out the tank for my dovii..good video man..210 look like baby oil.. nooo particles at all
For bigger tanks instead of taking water out then scooping the sand out use a big diameter tube and siphon the sand out. Stops it clouding up and less stress for the fish
I appreciate this info so much. My kids and I are new to the hobby (started November 2022). We decided on a chunky rock bottom since we also have baby turtles, I soon found out that my constant bacterial blooms were from “stuff” hiding under the rocks. Last night, we switched to sand (no small task lol). The aquarium is super clear this morning (I also followed your awesome advice on filter media in my fx4). African cichlids and turtles seem super happy.
Thats awesome, glad to hear your tank is doing well now! 😁 Many beginners get frustrated early on because they dont have good info. I highly suggest you check out my playlist for beginners. It'll be very helpful for you 😁 - th-cam.com/play/PLP5OXTIIDO8NYvhUHAmwAd54WFmS4d8er.html
I wanted the African Cichlids but i had black gravel so i change it to white sand for them and I actually did not remove the fish while doing it only 2 died though.
I'm upgrading my tank this week and I'm using new substrate. Having the same issues with my substrate blowing around being too light. I have enough beneficial bacteria in both my canisters, sponge filter and decor so I'll be ok once I put my Africans in the new tank the same day.
I'm switching from gravel to sand but have to keep fish in tank .. mine is only 60 gallon so it will be easier ...and careful . Love your vids brother greetings from serbia and if you have a tip for me on this change.
Hey kev you should do a short video of al your fishes names! I though it was just me who named all my fish haha. great videos man keep up the good work.
i use fluval stratum with 2 inches of sand over the stratum works great for m, the plants love the stratum. joe h navy seabee, you marines are the best. great tank
I am going to have to do this same process with my cichlid tank and I just had a question is this actual sand or crushed coral? Also how were your fish after the whole process of switching out the substrate? Does it make a difference for the live bacteria since it’s from saltwater?
Its sand. The live bacteria helps to cycle your tank quickly. Doesnt matter that its reef sand, what it does to your tank (raises PH) is exactly what you want in an african cichlid tank 😁
Hey kev, So I just changed out my substrate to the caribsea pink Fiji one you have and I took my fish out and put them in my 20 gallon for this process and now I test the water and I have ammonia did this same thing happen to you? I know you changed your substrate with your fish in the tank. Also is it safe to put them back in the tank or should I just wait it out?
I am changing my substrate AND the whole tank while I'm moving into another house with my fish. :D Perfect time for a "fresh" start, brand new tank, new substrate, new plants and deco!
I am new to this hobby . Im done removing the sand before i watched your video and i hope what ive done is right. My substrate is a gravel mixed in sand . Im having a hard time cleaning the gravel since the vaccum sucking out the sand everytime i clean it. So i decided to remove the sand only. I take off all the substrate but not like what you did i only left 20% water (because my fishes are small fishes only) and use a strainer to separate sand from gravel and i put back all of the gravel to the tank and fill it up again with water. The only difference is i removed all of my fishes because im worried of making them stress during the process. I hope they wont float to dead after that changes when i wake up tomorrow morning.
Im sure you're fish are fine if you did it this way 😊 I highly suggest you check out my playlist for beginners. It'll be very helpful for you 😁 - th-cam.com/play/PLP5OXTIIDO8NYvhUHAmwAd54WFmS4d8er.html
@@KaveManAquatics sure man i will check it . my fishes are still good im still watching your vids to know more about this hobby . I wish you make a video about small fishes like molly, tetra or guppies . More power to your channel man . ♥️ from Philippines 🇵🇭
I saw a video where they put the washed substrate/sand in a big ziplock bag and slowly let it slide from the bag onto the bottom of the tank. I’ve used this method to change substrate without removing my fish and it’s super easy and doesn’t mess up the water. I also siphoned the old substrate out instead of using a cup.
Hey ! Thanks for the content man! I’ve learned a lot from your channel. I am dealing with this exact problem. Bought couple cheap bags of sand from LPS and mixed it in with my aragonite for a deeper bed in some areas and low and behold 4 months in and still water not clear. Tank is fully cycled. I’ve bought all new sand and LPS Advised to skip water changed and just remove sand and add new and then do a water change later due to the old sand will hold a lot of the beneficial bacteria. Just Looking for a second opinion before I dive in 😅
If you've 100% confirmed its the sand, just get it all out of there and save yourself more future headaches! Since tank is fully cycled dont worry about the bacteria loss from the substrate. Dose with Prime and Stability for the first few days after the switch to make sure the water stays safe while your bacteria reproduce and catch up. You'll be fine! Heres a more recent video of me changing the sand AGAIN...lol - th-cam.com/video/TF82Hb-MBH0/w-d-xo.html
Thanks tons Kev! I swapped out the substrate over the weekend. It was a smooth transition. The second video was a huge help ! Thanks for your advance and looking forward to more content!!
Kev - i have multi-colored gravel in my 29 gallon tank. Its been established for 2 years now. I'm sort of bored with the multi-color gravel. I'm thinking of changing to a solid color, probably white. i want the plants and the fish to really stand out, and my thinking is that a solid color gravel will do that. What do you think ? If I add a thin layer on top of the existing gravel, will that work ? Is this a bad idea ? I don't want to kill the bacteria. Thanks, John
I’ve had to do this before. Once on my 32 and another time on the 75. Man it was a real pita getting it out. Like you I left the fish in, lol they were not happy. I do get what you’re saying with the substate. This is why now I only buy Caribsea and I make sure when washing it that the washing water is crystal clear before adding it to the tank. These mofos are always, and I mean always swimming around with a mouth full of sand looking for food, and I know the feeling of seeing particles floating around. You have a 407 on there right? I’d recommend Fluvals new UV that connects right to the filter. My boy got it, and lemme tell you his water now is crystal clear with zero particles at all floating around. I ordered one already 🤗 Happy Holidays My Bro🙏🏻
This sand I used here raises your PH which you may not need for guppies and mollys, depending on your source water. If you don't need to raise your PH I would go with regular pool sand that is super cheap and looks great. You can find either substrate in my shop - koji.to/kaveman_aquatics
Kave, I was seriously worried when the water went fully cloudy specially I was worried when you add the wood and sand coz couldn't see a thing but in the end it was outstanding job.... Its worth it.... 🥰😍👌👌 I also noticed a black shark in the tank nice..... (I got a Bala shark in my tank) anyway overall its job well done 👍👌👌
@@KaveManAquatics least I can do with all the content you put out thank you I and my fish appreciate you I’ll post pictures later once I have my Substrate I’ll post on fb
I changed from rock Gravel to sand yesterday, I was really worried about the end result, this morning the water is crystal clear and the fish are looking good, all the food settles on top and doesn't sink into.the rock Gravel 😀
Exactly! Thats one of the major benefits...your fish waste will also set on the surface and wont sink under it. This helps in letting you know when its vacuuming time. Or even better, with a wave maker positioned correctly it can do the vacuuming job for you! Watch this - th-cam.com/video/tTSGJm9wyco/w-d-xo.html
Great job bro and really glad you managed it without major hiccups. Always learning from your videos. Agree with you perhaps it would have been better remove our friends but, like you, I would have done the same as well so can’t blame you at all as I would have been very impatient to remove it as those particles would have driven me mad. And we know how critical patience is in our hobby. Much appreciated for the great video brother. Stay safe and have a peaceful and merry Xmas to you and your family.🎄🎄
Been subbed and following for a few months now, your tips have helped me alot! How long will that sand keep the GH KH and PH levels where they need to be? Salute bro!
I have fallen in love with the Black Diamond blasting sand from Tractor supply. It looks beautiful, costs $11 for 50 pounds, and as long as you rinse it, it will leave you with crystal clear water within an hour or two.
Thanks Kev! Very knowledgeable Information Brother. I hope I will never have to do this process.. Question.. Can Arag-Alive sand be used in NON reef tanks?
This is a freshwater tank so yes. But this sand is aragonite and will raise your PH. So it depends on what type of fish you have and what they prefer. I highly suggest you check out my playlist for beginners. It'll be very helpful for you 😁 - th-cam.com/play/PLP5OXTIIDO8NYvhUHAmwAd54WFmS4d8er.html
What a pain! Glad you got it straightened out. I'm about ready to add substrate to my new 55 gallon tank and I'm not sure if it matters how much you add. But I've read 1/2 pound per gallon of water up to 2 pounds per gallon. What is correct in your opinion? Thanks!
Hi bro, I would like to add sand into my aquarium which don’t have any sand at the moment. Should I move the fish to other tank or can do it by letting them inside the tank? And I do have wavemaker so how to choose the right sand to avoid floating or flying?
Just watched this video and I can report a, in the same situation like you were prior to making the substrate change. I am ordering the bags of sand from your link right now
Hello did you remove the water from the bag or rinse the sand as this has salt water in it, I have just purchased the same sand for a cichlid tank and would like some advice. Many thanks
Sup kev! Hope you doing good. Congrats on the 450. I am currently setting up my 240 African cichlids tank and wanted to know if you are still using the same substrate for your African cichlids? And how many bags did you use for your 220?
Congrats! I switched to black diamond blasting sand and I love it. I think I mentioned how many bags in this video - th-cam.com/video/TF82Hb-MBH0/w-d-xo.html
If you’re having trouble achieving crystal clear aquarium water, I can help!
Download my Free ebook with the best tips and advice - KaveManAquatics.com/Free-Ebook
Thank you so much you are a legend I respect it nothing but love brother keep on fishing 💯
Hey bro, I have brown rust like algae in my tropical tank I have tried everything from lighting to filters.. any advice ?
@@charlescandela2373 thanks bro, appreciate that!
@@musuddin1711 Do you have a pleco? If not get one! Then do a black out for a week, no light or food! But first do 50% water change and scrub as much off as you can, then lights out!
@@KaveManAquatics I got 2 plecos. ill give the black out a go thank you brother 👊🏼
From the UK. This is by far the best aquatic channel on the internet
Thank you bro, I appreciate that! 😁💪
@@simona4442 from UK too, it's definitely the most watchable channel and I like it as he also points out mistakes he made which is good to hear. Sometimes explaining what went wrong is loads more helpful than just telling everyone what to do.
Im watching this because im going to try a planted cichlid tank but used a soil underneath about 4cm of gravel, I didn't know they could dig all the way to the bottom of the tank, so now I need to swap out 30kg of substrate in my 240L//70+G tank...
Also, I wanted to offer a cool lil tip that I used when I transferred my sand substrate to a bigger tank. Instead of that plastic scooper. I used a plastic dust pan. Works awesome, fills up the dust pan with a lot of sand, but best part is, if you just tilt the dust pan back, all the water drains out the handle, leaving it full of just wet sand but no loose water. I never new that dust pans have a drain on the handle till recent!💪
awesome tip bro! But I hope I never have to use it LOL 🤣
I do the same.
That's a pro tip.... dust pan...niceeeee
@@KaveManAquatics haha Never say never, haha
Good tip 👌
Every time I move I use a clean dustpan for a broom to scoop up the substrate, works really well and you can scoop out a ton at once even into the corners
I dare say that when one does what one does well (your "TH-cam Series)and presents it for consumption in an easy to understand and in an informative/educational format that is presented with both a knowledgeable enthusiasm and with a most enjoyable demeanor; KUDOS to you from me and my four budding aquarist grand-children.
Thank you William! Always appreciate your feedback! 😊💪
I used the sand, wave maker setup, hob filter, and top fin rock display you recommend…thank you very much. All of this brought new life to this tank
Hey Kev. I wanna thank you for inspiring me to get back into the hobby. I was done when I kept losing fish. You brought the passion in fish keeping for me. I have a 55 gallon now. Looking to upgrade to a 90 gallon. Just stacking my supplies now. Thanks again. My All male peacock coming soon
Thats awesome, Glad I could inspire you! Welcome back to the hobby, we all missed you! 😊
Thanks for the tips. I made the mistake years ago and didn't put enough substrate in, now I'm adding little by little along with quick start so I don't get a bad bacteria bloom. It helps a bunch.
Glad I could help! 😁
I changed my substrate out for aragonite back a while ago and saw a tip for using a juice or pop liter container to put the rinsed aragonite slurry in, then put it in the tank with water and it pours out without clouding up. It worked. Great videos Kev.
I had to do the same thing for the same problem. To get the sand out I took a hose like you hook to your pump ran it outside into a bucket and started a siphon. Sucked all the sand out. Worked like a charm and didn't cloud up the water.
I have the same problem with caribsea cichlid mix sand when I was watching your video, I realized that I was right with my suspicions! great channel
Thanks bro! Always sucks to find out the substrate is the problem, but at least now you know! 💪
Bro feel your pain, had to do this about 6 months ago, a Royal Pain in The Butt. Takes an age to get your head around doing it and then an age doing it, but well worth it. Good Job!!!
We know the same pain!! lol Glad you enjoyed the vid 😊💪
Tonight I switched my substrate from white gravel to the African Cichlid sand and Aragonite in my 125. Thanks for everything Kev I’m leaving a lot. Thinking about investing in your course to go to the next level.
It'll definitely make you feel confidant about keeping happy and healthy Africans! 💪
I did this one time and luckily not on the big tanks but I used new and rinsed Dusk pan, and a Tip to those who wants to change their big tank's gravel to sand use new and rinsed Cat litter scoop.
Looks much better. I would have tossed some BB in there like Seachem Stability or Fritzyme 7, but it looks like all your fish did great. Thanks.
Thanks Ben! I had just added some stability into my filters a few weeks ago, that and the live bacteria in the sand made me feel confident in the BB 😊 Thanks for sharing that tip though! Love your channel Ben 👍
Using live bacteria sand that’s made for salt water doesn’t help. The bb for salt water doesn’t survive in fresh water and can cause an imbalance in your cycle from the bacteria die off.
Hey Kevin. I'm glad you gave in and removed the substrate. A lot times people don't want to make changes because of the money involved. I was telling the Ha Y in fish keeper, I will always have back ups for everything that keeps my tank operating. I learned my lesson the hard way. I was brand new in the hobby. I lost (3) 10" Oscars and (2) 8" goldfish because my filter stopped working and I had no mean of getting another one. I did all I could to save them. AnyWHO, I learned too, my tank wasn't nearly big enough for such big fish. It was a 55 gallon. But the goldfish wasn't supposed to be in there. They were supposed to be food. ( I never saw them eat the goldfish) Thanks Kevin.
Sorry for your loss, unfortunately in this hobby sometimes we learn things the hard way, myself included. Thanks for sharing.
One of your best vids brooo....great job!!
Thanks bro, Glad you liked it!! 😊💪
Small helpful tip I learned when taking out substrate was to use a pasta strainer or a dustpan. Have a great day everyone!!!
Pasta strainer wont work because the sand will sift right through, but a dust pan is a great idea.thanks
I just suck out the substrate out with the 25’ python cleaning tool. Works like a charm, now I only have a tiny bit left in the tank, of course this was each time I did a water change, so it took about 3-4 months
Perfect timing! I will have to do this soon, and using that sand will keep me from disaster in my newly cycled tank. Thanks!
My pleasure 💪
Just did a 55 gallon tank and bought some white sand and slate stone super cheap from local quarry working great so far
Wow a nightmare that I have been through. Thanks for sharing this Kev. Keep building your video library, very helpful and entertaining.
Yup I agree...Thank you, Will do! 😊
Hi kav glad to see the video we are upgrading to a 90 gallons and I was going to use the same substrate in my old tank in my new tank well I guess I’m not now We will wait until after Christmas to place our order for a new substrate for the new tank thank you so much
Cool, Glad I could help! 😊
I did this 2 days back in my 90G, switched from white to black substrate. After looking at the result, l just forgot the painful process. Some forums and TH-camrs insisted about cichlid showing vibrant colors in black substrate since they change their color pattern based on their surrounding. And it really worked.
Glad it worked out for you, But I think substrate color is just a personal preference. Fish will pop regardless 😊
@@KaveManAquatics yeah I was also thinking that way like how a substrate color decides the fishes color, but it's their natural instinct to survive it seems. For about 2 months I did a research kev, testing it in my 40G. Even I left the fishes without substrate since my tank bottom is itself black that also made a difference. So I gave it a shot in my 90G and yeah I'm glad that it worked becoz I can't do this process again to switching white😂
Glad I saw this video, I thought I did something wrong, my water was so cloudy. Thanks I just need to be patient and wait to see what will happen.
Yup patience is key at first. Glad I could help 😊
Thats unfortunate brotha. Atleast you figured it out and acted fast. I've been through the same with black sand and my water still had a black tint after washing my sand for a few hours. Like you said wouldn't even wish this upon your own enemy. Always touching important parts of the fish hobby!! Lets goooo💪
Sucks you had to go through that too! Glad you enjoyed the vid though 😊💪
I changed my substrate to Fiji pink after watching this video! Awesome! Loving it!
Nice! Glad you like it, and Im glad I was able to help! 😊
I'm in this exact position now! Thanks for the video. Just waiting for my new substrate to be delivered and then the fun can begin! Got my new tank set up and the sand particles have been ruining my enjoyment
Let the fun begin! lol
@@KaveManAquatics sand out.. coral sand in.. much improved
Tank looks beautiful. That is a complete drag but I think you just keep in mind the end result and the look and happiness of our guys. So it was worth the work. Awesome tank! Now if only my little guys would grow up!
Thanks bro, definitely worth it! 💪
@@KaveManAquatics I marvel at your big fish and my guys are so little. Haha where can I send u visuals of my tank
@@briaspe9911 They grow fast bro, enjoy the ride. Try my IG @kavemanaquatics
I did it too once...when I chosed white sand! A lot of work and also a patient test!
Yes Sir!
I’ve given up on sand substrates. Recently I replaced the white sand in my 40gal. tank with 30 lbs. of mixed river gravel. The water has never been clearer and the gravel is so much easier to keep clean. The only real change is having to treat water levels more often, but chemical bacteria really helps balance that out.
I wouldn’t use sand unless I cared for exotic fish professionally.
Fish looked PISSED bro lol... Glad it worked out in the end and thanks for saving us the trouble.
My Pleasure 😊
I love your info... and the way you put it out... but I won't EVER share your obsession with sparkling water. I want it clean and comfy for my critters... but you go to the MAX. A++ for the effort... and results. You are an aquarium ROCK STAR
LOL, thank you bro! Even though I know the water parameters are perfect for my boys, I do also enjoy looking at a crystal clear tank 😊
@@KaveManAquatics I think that's the thing people miss about the Aquarium hobby... every person gets to build a tank... or tanks... to fit their own tastes and purposes. It really allows for individuality to shine through. I see a million people searching for ONE answer... when they need to realize... there are a MILLION answers to one question... its all relative to your goals and situation.
Couldn’t have said it better myself. You are 100% correct! 💪💪
yooo Kev i JUST switched to pool filter sand and rushed it, switched from 70lbs of gravel to 70lbs of pool filter sand in about 2 hrs before I had to leave for work. Rinsed it thoroughly the best I could with what I have (large basin with powerful faucet, no garden hose plus it's winter here now) and after watching this video all I have to say is LOL wish me luck. Most of my fish are south american cichlids and not fully grown yet so....hopefully i don't end up with 1 month of cloudy water!
lol, You'll be alright. The pool sand will settle soon and you'll get your clear water back in a few days!
@@KaveManAquatics actually it was clear in 24 hrs! I got lucky ^.^
Hey Kev. I decided to swap my pool filter substrate out for river sand for my Mbuna tank. Thanks for the video. It was super helpful! However, maybe you can use this tip. I used a standard clear hose (no attachments, just hose) to create a syphon and vacuum out the old gravel. Man it worked like a charm!! There was almost no cloudy water during this process and the fish were super chilled. Maybe give that a go for your next change. Just make sure that the hose is wide enough to not get blockages.
I wouldn't wish that on my worst enemy, either! That is a huge job. Glad you got it sorted out. Your tank is beautiful! My husband wants to know how Flava Flav is doing! 😁
Thank you, Tell your husband Flave is doing great and growing!! Thanks for asking 😊😊
Even though its a year later, thank you for this video. It's been years since I've kept fish. I put together a medium freshwater community a month ago. All my parameters are great but I couldn't figure out why my water wasn't clear until I saw this video. It looks like the same sand substrate I purchased. I'll be slowly taking it out and replacing it as I do my water changes.
My pleasure! Glad you're finding the channel helpful 😁
Thanks for the videos, they helped me a lot. I’m 6 weeks into this new hobby.
Funny this substrate change reminds me of car mods I did previously without proper research. I ended up changing it all out again later again as it made the car handle worse than before lol
Glad it helped, and yea it would suck replacing things in a car too lol
Check out this playlist I made for beginners, it'll be very helpful for you - th-cam.com/play/PLP5OXTIIDO8NYvhUHAmwAd54WFmS4d8er.html
Love this video. Can't wait for next weeks video been waiting A long time for it !!!
Glad you enjoyed it!
This carib sea fiji pink sand is what I used in my new tank and it looks great with a black background :D
Agreed! 💪
Your fish are stunning thank you. my opinion bare bottom as in my 2 goldfish tanks.
Thanks, My african cichlids love the sand too much for me to take it away from them lol But thanks 😊
I really like the caribsea substrates. They are a must for African cichlids, thanks Kevin🙂
I agree! 😊
Was thinking of getting sand from my local lake? Maybe I will test it in a jar first to see how cloudy it gets.
Awesome 😎 Once again I was looking for the best Substate for my Tank. I’m just getting all the needed Materials for my Tank, Not gonna get the fish 🐟 until next week Thank Bro, for the Great content , keep up the good Work
Glad I could help! 😊
Hey kev! Your tanks are amazing! Hey I was wondering if you think I should switch my substrate years ago when I first set my tank up I had South American cichlids, but now I have all frontosa. Originally, when I set the tank up, I used play sand and as you know that does nothing when it comes to buffering the pH my tab order has a neutral pH at about 7.0- 7.2 I am considering switching out the play sand going with agronite I have a 200 gallon aquarium do you think it is worth the hassle because my fish are very healthy but like you said I don’t want them to survive I want them to thrive😀?
Hey Kev, thanks for all the videos here. Always helpful. A few months ago I settled up my 55gal with Jack Dempseys and black sand. I’m planning to change this black substrate for this one in your video because, for one reason, my Dempseys got a dark color so almost don’t see them. What’s your opinion? Would my tank have a better look? Thank you.
I changed from gravel to sand(on your recommendation) it was a huge pain in the ass on my 90 gallon, I would not want to do it on a 210 lol.
We know each other’s pain lol
Bro..same issue size of the grain...started getting into my fx6..now im gonna black out the tank for my dovii..good video man..210 look like baby oil.. nooo particles at all
Thanks bro! Glad you enjoyed the video!
Sorry for your troubles.... loved just how well you took us through your process 👌👌👌 and that clear aquarium feel aaaahhh!
Thank you so much, glad you enjoyed it 😊
The end result is amazing! Crystal clear! 👏👏👏 🐟🐟🐟🐟
Thanks!! 😊😊
Just to confirm, it is ok to add tap water directly into the tank given Prime is added to tank ahead of time?
Correct! 😊
For bigger tanks instead of taking water out then scooping the sand out use a big diameter tube and siphon the sand out. Stops it clouding up and less stress for the fish
That is a great tip! I actually did that the second time I removed and replaced the sand 😁
I appreciate this info so much. My kids and I are new to the hobby (started November 2022). We decided on a chunky rock bottom since we also have baby turtles, I soon found out that my constant bacterial blooms were from “stuff” hiding under the rocks. Last night, we switched to sand (no small task lol). The aquarium is super clear this morning (I also followed your awesome advice on filter media in my fx4). African cichlids and turtles seem super happy.
Thats awesome, glad to hear your tank is doing well now! 😁 Many beginners get frustrated early on because they dont have good info.
I highly suggest you check out my playlist for beginners. It'll be very helpful for you 😁 - th-cam.com/play/PLP5OXTIIDO8NYvhUHAmwAd54WFmS4d8er.html
@@KaveManAquatics your videos have really helped me figure things out. I’ve watched many of your beginner videos, I really appreciate your channel. 😊
I wanted the African Cichlids but i had black gravel so i change it to white sand for them and I actually did not remove the fish while doing it only 2 died though.
Stunning as normal bro love it
Much appreciated bro 😁💪
I'm upgrading my tank this week and I'm using new substrate. Having the same issues with my substrate blowing around being too light. I have enough beneficial bacteria in both my canisters, sponge filter and decor so I'll be ok once I put my Africans in the new tank the same day.
I think you will be ok too! 😊💪
I'm switching from gravel to sand but have to keep fish in tank .. mine is only 60 gallon so it will be easier ...and careful . Love your vids brother greetings from serbia and if you have a tip for me on this change.
Hey kev you should do a short video of al your fishes names! I though it was just me who named all my fish haha. great videos man keep up the good work.
Great idea lol Thanks! Next week I’m doing a full stock list with species names but I like your idea too 😊
i use fluval stratum with 2 inches of sand over the stratum works great for m, the plants love the stratum. joe h navy seabee, you marines are the best. great tank
Cool, thanks for the info! 😊
Love this video. I am replacing the sand in one of my tanks. Shouldn't be too much work though as it's only a 38 litre with a betta.
Glad it helped
@@KaveManAquatics It sure has :) Now I just have to find the motivation! Haha
I am going to have to do this same process with my cichlid tank and I just had a question is this actual sand or crushed coral? Also how were your fish after the whole process of switching out the substrate? Does it make a difference for the live bacteria since it’s from saltwater?
Its sand. The live bacteria helps to cycle your tank quickly. Doesnt matter that its reef sand, what it does to your tank (raises PH) is exactly what you want in an african cichlid tank 😁
Hey kev, So I just changed out my substrate to the caribsea pink Fiji one you have and I took my fish out and put them in my 20 gallon for this process and now I test the water and I have ammonia did this same thing happen to you? I know you changed your substrate with your fish in the tank. Also is it safe to put them back in the tank or should I just wait it out?
Love your tanks man looks great
Much appreciated bro 😊
I am changing my substrate AND the whole tank while I'm moving into another house with my fish. :D Perfect time for a "fresh" start, brand new tank, new substrate, new plants and deco!
Nice, Good luck with the move! 💪
Man. I was doing this last week + wife was nagging during the entire process. the feeling i was going through lol bout to choked myself w the sand🤣
HAHAHAHA 🤣🤣🤣 You had it worse than me bro! 🤣
You are the man brother!!!
Thank you bro! 😊💪
Advance Merry Christmas Kev
Thanks bro, same to you! 😊
Hey Im going to try this I hope it helps my aquarium
I am new to this hobby . Im done removing the sand before i watched your video and i hope what ive done is right. My substrate is a gravel mixed in sand . Im having a hard time cleaning the gravel since the vaccum sucking out the sand everytime i clean it. So i decided to remove the sand only. I take off all the substrate but not like what you did i only left 20% water (because my fishes are small fishes only) and use a strainer to separate sand from gravel and i put back all of the gravel to the tank and fill it up again with water. The only difference is i removed all of my fishes because im worried of making them stress during the process. I hope they wont float to dead after that changes when i wake up tomorrow morning.
Im sure you're fish are fine if you did it this way 😊 I highly suggest you check out my playlist for beginners. It'll be very helpful for you 😁 - th-cam.com/play/PLP5OXTIIDO8NYvhUHAmwAd54WFmS4d8er.html
@@KaveManAquatics sure man i will check it . my fishes are still good im still watching your vids to know more about this hobby . I wish you make a video about small fishes like molly, tetra or guppies . More power to your channel man . ♥️ from Philippines 🇵🇭
I saw a video where they put the washed substrate/sand in a big ziplock bag and slowly let it slide from the bag onto the bottom of the tank. I’ve used this method to change substrate without removing my fish and it’s super easy and doesn’t mess up the water. I also siphoned the old substrate out instead of using a cup.
Cool tip!
Hey ! Thanks for the content man! I’ve learned a lot from your channel. I am dealing with this exact problem. Bought couple cheap bags of sand from LPS and mixed it in with my aragonite for a deeper bed in some areas and low and behold 4 months in and still water not clear. Tank is fully cycled. I’ve bought all new sand and LPS Advised to skip water changed and just remove sand and add new and then do a water change later due to the old sand will hold a lot of the beneficial bacteria. Just Looking for a second opinion before I dive in 😅
If you've 100% confirmed its the sand, just get it all out of there and save yourself more future headaches! Since tank is fully cycled dont worry about the bacteria loss from the substrate. Dose with Prime and Stability for the first few days after the switch to make sure the water stays safe while your bacteria reproduce and catch up. You'll be fine!
Heres a more recent video of me changing the sand AGAIN...lol - th-cam.com/video/TF82Hb-MBH0/w-d-xo.html
Thanks tons Kev! I swapped out the substrate over the weekend. It was a smooth transition. The second video was a huge help ! Thanks for your advance and looking forward to more content!!
Kev - i have multi-colored gravel in my 29 gallon tank. Its been established for 2 years now. I'm sort of bored with the multi-color gravel. I'm thinking of changing to a solid color, probably white. i want the plants and the fish to really stand out, and my thinking is that a solid color gravel will do that. What do you think ? If I add a thin layer on top of the existing gravel, will that work ? Is this a bad idea ? I don't want to kill the bacteria. Thanks, John
I just want to say one thing love you Kave...❤️
😆 Thanks, love you too!
Thanks bro 😎
Where do you get such beautiful driftwood and how do you find driftwood that doesn't turn your water yellow ?
Do you change your aragonite substrate? How often? TIA.Lenny from Western Australia
I’ve had to do this before. Once on my
32 and another time on the 75. Man it was a real pita getting it out. Like you I left the fish in, lol they were not happy. I do get what you’re saying with the substate. This is why now I only buy Caribsea and I make sure when washing it that the washing water is crystal clear before adding it to the tank. These mofos are always, and I mean always swimming around with a mouth full of sand looking for food, and I know the feeling of seeing particles floating around. You have a 407 on there right? I’d recommend Fluvals new UV that connects right to the filter. My boy got it, and lemme tell you his water now is crystal clear with zero particles at all floating around. I ordered one already 🤗 Happy Holidays My Bro🙏🏻
Thanks for that tip, didn’t know fluval made one like that...will def check it out! 💪
thank goodness i saw this before i went to buy my sand at the pet store! is this safe for guppies and mollys?
This sand I used here raises your PH which you may not need for guppies and mollys, depending on your source water. If you don't need to raise your PH I would go with regular pool sand that is super cheap and looks great. You can find either substrate in my shop - koji.to/kaveman_aquatics
ok but you said dont go with cheap sand thank you! i hope grand kids do not pick fish that like to go into the sand :)
Kave, I was seriously worried when the water went fully cloudy specially I was worried when you add the wood and sand coz couldn't see a thing but in the end it was outstanding job.... Its worth it.... 🥰😍👌👌 I also noticed a black shark in the tank nice..... (I got a Bala shark in my tank) anyway overall its job well done 👍👌👌
Yea me too bro, lol He's a red tail shark been in with the boys about 2 years now 😊
Hope that shark won't be a snack to others 😁...
Its always nice to see your videos kave (it's interesting and informative) keep up the good work 👋👋👋
Na, 2 years with the boys and nobody messes with him 😊
Glad you're enjoying the videos!
Great video
Thanks!
Looks great , for a 125 how much wattage for heat do you need??? Are 2. -200 watts good enough ?
Thanks
Nope, I would use 2 500W heaters
Great video man that was a lot of work Great job
Yes it was, thanks! 😊
Just bought 6 bags fiji pink hopefully you get the commission and go it
Nice!!! If you used my link in the description or in my shop, I will! Appreciate you bro! 😁💪
@@KaveManAquatics least I can do with all the content you put out thank you I and my fish appreciate you I’ll post pictures later once I have my Substrate I’ll post on fb
@@KaveManAquatics you go on Amazon try but same thing it’s at 199 you saved me butt load I only spent 80 thank kev
What substrate do you recommend for brackish tank setup for green spotted puffers?
Recently subscribed to your channel, love all the tips you give. Where did you get the two large decoration pieces? I like the look
Thanks for the sub! The decor comes from my local petsmart. I have a link in my shop. Check it out here - koji.to/kaveman_aqautics
The black diamond blasting sand is it bad for the fish. Alot of people say it hurts their gills
I changed from rock Gravel to sand yesterday, I was really worried about the end result, this morning the water is crystal clear and the fish are looking good, all the food settles on top and doesn't sink into.the rock Gravel 😀
Exactly! Thats one of the major benefits...your fish waste will also set on the surface and wont sink under it. This helps in letting you know when its vacuuming time. Or even better, with a wave maker positioned correctly it can do the vacuuming job for you! Watch this - th-cam.com/video/tTSGJm9wyco/w-d-xo.html
Great job bro and really glad you managed it without major hiccups. Always learning from your videos. Agree with you perhaps it would have been better remove our friends but, like you, I would have done the same as well so can’t blame you at all as I would have been very impatient to remove it as those particles would have driven me mad. And we know how critical patience is in our hobby. Much appreciated for the great video brother. Stay safe and have a peaceful and merry Xmas to you and your family.🎄🎄
Yea patience is definitely a virtue in this hobby lol! Thanks bro, Same to you and yours! 😊
If you domt want cloudy sand floating . Take the scopper gently drag the bottom and come up the sides easy
Did you find yourself having to add any kind of buffers such as malawi salt or malawi buffer when having caribsea Fiji pink sand?
Hi sir, can i add a substrate to a newly cycled tank? What should i do?
Would this sand be good for a Fahaka Pufferfish or would you recommend a different kind?
Been subbed and following for a few months now, your tips have helped me alot! How long will that sand keep the GH KH and PH levels where they need to be? Salute bro!
I have fallen in love with the Black Diamond blasting sand from Tractor supply. It looks beautiful, costs $11 for 50 pounds, and as long as you rinse it, it will leave you with crystal clear water within an hour or two.
Totally agree with you! Did you see the video where I installed it? - th-cam.com/video/TF82Hb-MBH0/w-d-xo.html
I used black slag sand at tractor supppy, It came out so clean. It's affordable and looks like glass
Thanks Kev! Very knowledgeable Information Brother. I hope I will never have to do this process.. Question.. Can Arag-Alive sand be used in NON reef tanks?
Sure bro, This is a NON reef tank. These fish are freshwater fish but require hard water with a high PH. And the arag-alive is perfect for that. 😊
Love your channel! Still a bit of a newbie so would you recommend this substrate for a freshwater tank?
This is a freshwater tank so yes. But this sand is aragonite and will raise your PH. So it depends on what type of fish you have and what they prefer.
I highly suggest you check out my playlist for beginners. It'll be very helpful for you 😁 - th-cam.com/play/PLP5OXTIIDO8NYvhUHAmwAd54WFmS4d8er.html
What a pain! Glad you got it straightened out. I'm about ready to add substrate to my new 55 gallon tank and I'm not sure if it matters how much you add. But I've read 1/2 pound per gallon of water up to 2 pounds per gallon. What is correct in your opinion? Thanks!
Hi bro, I would like to add sand into my aquarium which don’t have any sand at the moment. Should I move the fish to other tank or can do it by letting them inside the tank? And I do have wavemaker so how to choose the right sand to avoid floating or flying?
Just watched this video and I can report a, in the same situation like you were prior to making the substrate change. I am ordering the bags of sand from your link right now
Hello did you remove the water from the bag or rinse the sand as this has salt water in it, I have just purchased the same sand for a cichlid tank and would like some advice. Many thanks
Where did you get those wood decors?
Sup kev! Hope you doing good. Congrats on the 450. I am currently setting up my 240 African cichlids tank and wanted to know if you are still using the same substrate for your African cichlids? And how many bags did you use for your 220?
Congrats! I switched to black diamond blasting sand and I love it. I think I mentioned how many bags in this video - th-cam.com/video/TF82Hb-MBH0/w-d-xo.html