I need to clean my 55 gallon tank

Question
Hi Barbara
My 55 gallon tank with 2 inches of rocks desperately needs to be cleaned. I have about 30 tropical community fish in it. How  do I get the rocks out [for good] and clean the tank without hurting my fish? Food & other particles are collected in the rocks and I'm afraid will create a deadly bacteria for my fish.
Please help me,
Bonita

Answer
Hi Bonita,

There is this syphon you can purchase in any local pet store called "gravel vacuum". There is one with pump that you squeeze with your hands, and one in standard syphon form, whichever one you prefer.

It sucks out the wastes from the gravel by swirling the gravel around while sucking the water. Clean as much gravel as you can while only removing 30-40% of water (since you said it desperately needs to be cleaned). It is very easy to use, so clean your tank every week about 10-20%. If you decide to clean it every other week, change 15-25%. This way the harmful bacteria is not built up mountain loads :] and tank remains cycled.

Gravel Vacuum is really convenient otherwise if you try taking out the rock by hand, all waste products will rise and pollute the tank.

Happy Fish Keeping,
Barb