Basic procedure for a water change?

[jlt045]

I am still semi-new to discus keeping. I believe I have been doing everything correctly, but if you could please tell me what you guys do? Not just how often, but anything you add? After my water changes I have been adding Seachem Discus buffer and it seems to be doing fine. I also have sand as a substrate, so anything about how to keep it as clean as possible as well. Any advice is appreciated thank you.

[rickztahone]

Simple as pie:

-disconnect heater/filters
-put submersible pump in to tank
-turn it on and pump out the water
-while water is draining I clean pre-filters and wipe down the tank
-add Prime decholorinator
-fill back up
-TURN FILTERS AND HEATER BACK ON :-)

done

[discuspaul]

Is your substrate pool filter sand ?. If so, vac it up with each wc if you're not doing that. A regular plastic aquarium vacuuming tool does the job well, without siphoning up any sand. Just slowly move the vac about an inch or so above the sand level to pick up the wastes without taking up any sand.
Why do you feel the need to use a discus buffer ? It may not at all be necessary, depending on what type of water you're using (e.g. R/O), or whether your water supply is very low on any mineral content.

[Cabe]

I have sponge filters and they stay running the whole time....