What to do after a power outage?

December 18, 2008
Ed Duncan Jr.

Power Restored? Want to restock your aquarium? How's your water quality?

The living "good guy" bacteria the reside in your aquarium and filter system need good water
quality, just like the fish do. When the power goes out and the equipment fails it only take about 4 hours before the bacteria population begin to go dormant or perish. Once the power is restored, even if your fish have survived, the remaining bacteria population may no longer be able to support  the fish population. Levels of ammonia and nitrite could likely rise to dangerous levels. Be aware that the biological waste present in the tank and mechanical filtration pads may have started to be broken down anaerobically producing methane and hydrogen sulfide. These gasses can be very toxic to fish, so try to remove and clean the filter pads before the power comes back on. If the power outage lasted more than several hours, realize that your fish will be very stressed. Monitor them closely while disturbing them as little as possible for the first few days. If you see signs of ich or other diseases developing, take appropriate treatment action. Monitor the water quality as well and do not be afraid to do water changes to help get the water quality back to normal. Biological products like Nitro Max and Turbo Start will help to rebuild the good bacteria population.

Eddie's recommends testing the water to assess these important water quality parameters. Eddie's offers FREE water testing and expert  advice on how to proceed. Bring in 1 cup of aquarium in a clean container for your FREE test and consult. Like to purchase your own test kit click here