Thinking about having a non-reef friend tank-sit

[aquadonkey]

I have to go out of town for four days. A friend of mine has volunteered to look after my tank. I know there are some inherent dangers here.
Anyone want to give some pointers? Special instructions?
ie - I have an anemone - should I cover the powerhead?

 

[jfl14609]

does your nem move around or is it a new addition? also give your friend a phone number of an experienced reefer if anything goes south

 

[aquadonkey]

The nem is new - she's been in the tank two and a half weeks. For the first week, she stayed put right were I put her (front and center and gorgeous) then after that she basically just rotated with her foot in the same spot to the back side of the same rock. Not much movement.... but still new.
The one small move was inspired by me taking the filter bag off the powerhead, so I didn't know if I should just leave well enough alone.

 

[jfl14609]

i would cover it better to safe than sorry

 

[dreaminmel]

Lizz, I'm right up the road so depending on when you're going I'd probably be able to take care of things for you if that'd help you worry less while gone. Or if you want your friend to do it, feel free to give them my number in case of emergency or questions.

 

[aquadonkey]

Wow Mel - what a generous offer. Are you going to be at the swap tomorrow? If so, we can chat then

 

[dreaminmel]

Yes, I'll be there.

 

[RyanEG]

If its only for four days I would let the non-reefer friend do nothing but keep the system topped off. Just my opinion though.

 

[superkat]

I'm with Ryan on the non-reefer thing. I have no problem being a back up to Mel. So if one is not available, the other is.

 

[Capt_Cully]

Water top off class. Prepared food portions. Done!

My sis-in-law just sat our tank for a week. Aside from algae on the glass, no problems, but I'm fairly automated. I turned a few tempermental things off, like my Ca Reactor, topped off the water reservoir, prepared 7 cups of food and told Tim at ABC Reefs he was "on call" this week.

Helps if you have qualified back up.

 

[superkat]

at least you don't live here, Lizzy! When we go on vacation we need a zookeeper.