newbie needs help
 

Hi everyone! I'm totally new here. I'm planning on converting my cichlid tank to a fowlr. I've done a bit of basic research and one of my questions is the best way of getting the water temp to match your tank during a water change? I hear it's much more important than in a fresh water tank. I appreciate any advice and am looking forward to be part of the saltwater community!

It doesn't have to be spot on. I can't say it's the same for everyone, however with me - I have a controller that turns my heater on when it dips below a specific temperature, and it goes back up to 76F - You can get a heater and put it in the bucket and set it to 76F and let it sit until it turns off, then check the temperature with a thermometer. The water for water changes should be left overnight anyways. That way it allows you to get to the temperature before adding it to the tank.

On a side note, welcome to the dark side!

haha you have been dying to say that haven't you! lol

Neoh said it best, just get a second heater for your water change bucket and set it to the same as the display tank.

Temp is critical. Always match WC water to tank water. Some fish and invertebrates and coral r sensitive to it. It can lead to fish sickness and things goin wonky. Best to start good habits now....

The smaller the system the more important temp is. However as long as you're within 2 degrees of what the display temp is then you should be fine. Using a heater in a bucket/mixing tank works well, just make sure to check it as heaters (even on a low setting) can heat up water fairly fast in a bucket.

I make up water in advance. It's heated and circulated with an pump. Waiting for the next WC.

im my 125 fowlr i take it from tap into tank i just eye ball it but with finger lol

I had to put it on hold due to room issues. Then Reno costs skyrocketed and before you know it it's 6-7 years. Plus I not in a hurry to build my dream tank.