Prep for heading out of town...

[JKT69]

Hi everyone...I am heading out of town for 3-4 days this week and no one will be available to keep an eye on the tank. Is there anything I should do to prepare in advance?

Thanks...

JKT

 

[BigAl07]

Here's what I do for a "short" get away:

• Fill up ATO
• Remove all sponge/filter media that could clog
• Reduce over-all photo period
• Give the tank a full walk around/inspection the night before and resolve any issues... don't wait until you're walking out the door
• PRAY

Seriously for anything more than 3 days I have someone stop in just to get some eyes on the tank... just in case... but if you can't you simply can't so make the best of it and have a GREAT trip!!

 

[JKT69]

Thanks...I don't have an ATO, unless you count me Luckily the evap is pretty minimal. I run it at 78 degrees and I top off every couple of days. Good idea on reduced lighting...should I lower the skimmer cup all the way too?

 

[BigAl07]

I lower/reduce/minimize anything that can "over flow" but that doesn't adversely affect the operation of the tank.

 

[JKT69]

Ok, heading out later today or first thing in the morning. Going to feed just before we leave, top off, cover the back panel where the skimmer sticks up with a towel, reduce the lighting period (from 8 hours to what?). Should I run the skimmer? It get skitso on me sometimes and I am little nervous about running it a few days with no check, will it be ok? Lower the skimmer cup so the back chamber wont run dry if something happened...what else should I do. Will be back home either Sunday late or Monday.

Thanks!!

 

[BigAl07]

I usually try to "Simplify" the process especially if no one is around to check on it. I turn off the skimmer completely.... unless you're going to go for weeks. Also I reduce my lights to something like a 3-4hr period. I don't know if it helps but it's something I do anyway.