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I have the magnum power kleen gravel washer. The first time I used it I hooked it up to my filter as instructed. I didn't like it, I found it not sucking that hard to get much of any "dirt" out off the gravel. Most recently I hooked the washer up to my suction hoes and cleaned the gravel that way. Pulling the dirt out into a bucket with the water for a water change. Did I explain that well enough? Is that ok? I'd say I do about 15-20 gallons per water change. Also... what is the best way to replenish the water during a water change? I just use a clean container, but that takes to long. I was thinking of buying a 5 gallon or 10 gallon bucket to use. Would that stay bactireia free in my house? or would I have to wash it prior to use? if so how?

Thanks to all comments!
psuklinger

How big is the tank you are refering to? Removing that amount of water and doing a gravel cleaning should only take minutes, providing you have a good cleaner. I only use a wide mouth suction cleaner (not powered at all)
If you are just cleaning the gravel and doing a top up it should not effect the good bacteria at all. That is providing you are also washing the filter material in the change over water (that is the water just removed from the tank)
Finally it is good to add a Bio Starter at every water change to keep the good bacteria inits origional state.

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Betta 11Gal Desktop & Placidity 5ft Community Tank Photos

Keith

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