What's the best way to add sand to an existing system?

[lakwriter]

I want to add another inch or so to my existing 3" sand bed (established approx. 10 months). What is the best method and sand to do this? Live vs. not? All at once vs. staggered addition?

Is there a preferred brand/type to add to existing systems?

Thanks!

 

[rustybucket145]

ummm... dump it in

Seriously though, you just want to keep cloudiness to a minimum. I'd use a gallon pitcher, fill it 3/4 with said sand slowly submerge into tank, lower to bottom and slowly dump out. You can do it all at once for a couple of inches... even more with no ill effects.

Brand and type are pretty much just based on visual preference.

 

[Kannin]

And, then slowly run your fingers thru it like a rake.

 

[Dingo Dog]

You didn't mention what size tank you have. If you have a smaller tank, you might try the transfer using a 1 gallon zip lock type plastic bag.

 

[mattnano]

also try useing a HOB filter with some filter floss in it(pillow stuffing) to make the water crystal cleal

 

[flyguy7150]

i use a long pvc pipe and a funnel

 

[yellowwatchmen]

I would put a little on the bottom and gently mix it in. You do not want "cap" the existing sand. If you just put it in on top of the existing sand it could cause problems. I like the aragonit by caribasea.

 

[lakwriter]

wow, I like the ziplock bag and PVC suggestions. Thanks!

 

[Roy G. Biv]

Woooo.

 

[uscharalph]

I've used a big mug and moved it to the bottom, then turned it over.

 

[uscharalph]

I've used a big mug and moved it to the bottom, then turned it over.

 

[Roy G. Biv]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=11009293#post11009293 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by uscharalph
I've used a big mug and moved it to the bottom, then turned it over.

Something bad had to happen.. That was 7 minutes betwen duplicate posts!

 

[drstupid]

maybe he had a big mug and had to turn it over... (sorry, it's happy hour here)

i add sand slowly, say three or four days to add a bag to bolster my DSB. i turn off the pumps, and add it like uscharalph does. i've got pretty strong flow in my tank, and fresh sand goes everywhere, it needs a little time to get gooked up with bacteria and stuff and settle itself down. this is my main reason for doing it slowly.

i also run a cannister filter with carbon off my sump while doing this, it helps clear the water and it's something i like to do for a week every now and then anyways.