Yes, you should turn off and unplug your filter when performing a water change in your aquarium, according to standard aquarium maintenance guidelines.
Preparing for an Aquarium Water Change
Based on steps outlined for aquarium maintenance, one of the crucial first actions is to disconnect all electrical equipment. This ensures safety for you and your fish during the process.
The provided reference specifically states:
- "Unplug everything – heater, filter, lights and any other electrical components you have added to your aquarium."
This instruction clearly indicates that the filter, along with other electrical devices, should be turned off and unplugged before proceeding with the water change.
Turning off the filter prevents it from running dry, which can damage the motor and potentially kill the beneficial bacteria living inside the filter media. These bacteria are vital for breaking down waste in your tank.
Here are some initial steps from the reference to prepare for your water change:
- Unplug Electrical Equipment: Disconnect all electrical devices, including the filter, heater, and lights.
- Clean Tank Sides: Wipe down the inside of the aquarium glass or acrylic to remove algae.
- Siphon Water: Use a siphon and a bucket to remove the appropriate amount of water from the tank.
Performing these steps ensures a safe and effective water change, protecting both your equipment and the delicate ecosystem of your aquarium.
Water Change Prep Checklist
Here's a simple checklist derived from the reference:
| Task | Status |
|---|---|
| Unplug all electrical | Done |
| Wipe down algae | Done |
| Siphon water out | Done |
Following these initial steps will prepare your tank for the next stages of the water change process.
