A Simple Routine That Keeps Things Healthy
There are maintenance guides that read like a NASA checklist. Most reefers just need a simple routine that keeps the tank healthy without turning reef keeping into a second job.
The Weekly Stuff
Glass Cleaning — 5 Minutes
Magnetic scraper around all the panes. Do this before the water change so any algae knocked off gets removed with the old water.
Water Change — 30-40 Minutes
Mix salt water the night before in a bucket with a small powerhead and heater. Siphon old water out (good time to vacuum the bottom), replace with new water. For a nano, roughly 15% is standard.
Quick Parameter Check — 10 Minutes
Test alkalinity weekly without fail — it's the parameter most likely to drift. Calcium and magnesium can be tested fortnightly unless chasing an issue. Check salinity with a refractometer during the water change.
A simple spreadsheet tracking date, alk, cal, mag, and notes helps spot trends.
Equipment Check — 5 Minutes
- Skimmer cup — empty and wipe
- Filter mat — swap if gunky
- Top-off reservoir — refill with RODI
- Listen to pumps — unusual noise means something needs attention
- Check return pump flow — slower than usual might mean a vinegar soak is needed
Visual Inspection — 5 Minutes
- Any corals stressed, bleached, or retracted?
- Fish all accounted for and behaving normally?
- Any aiptasia popping up?
- Algae getting worse anywhere?
A proper once-over catches problems early.
Fortnightly Extras
- Calcium and magnesium test
- Carbon reactor check
- Dosing pump calibration check
Monthly Tasks
- Clean wavemakers and return pump (vinegar soak)
- RODI membrane TDS check
- Deeper sump clean
Gear That Makes It Easier
- Auto top-off (ATO) — eliminates daily salinity drift from evaporation
- Dosing pump — automates alkalinity and calcium supplementation
- Hanna checkers — faster and more accurate than liquid test kits
The best maintenance routine is the one that actually gets done consistently. Keep it simple and the tank will reward the effort.
What does your maintenance routine look like? Any shortcuts that have made life easier?
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