Step-by-step
Step 1: Position bucket below tank water levelSet 5-gallon bucket on floor next to tank. Bucket must be LOWER than tank water level - gravity pulls water down through tubing.
Step 2: Attach suction cup + airline holder to tankStick suction cup to inside of tank glass at water level. Insert airline tubing through holder so it stays submerged.
Step 3: Run tubing down to bucketCut tubing to length: long enough to reach bucket without stretching. Insert one end into tank; other end in bucket.
Step 4: Add drip valve OR knotFor drip valve: install on tubing midway between tank and bucket. For knot: tie a slipknot - tighten/loosen to control flow.
Step 5: Test flow with display tank waterStart siphon (suck briefly on the bucket end OR use turkey baster). Adjust valve/knot to 2-3 drops per second.
Step 6: Use for new fish/invertebratesWhen new livestock arrives: pour shipping water + fish into bucket. Start drip from display tank. Run for 60-90 minutes (saltwater) or 30-60 min (freshwater).
Step 7: Verify parameters before transferAfter acclimation: test salinity (saltwater) or hardness (freshwater) in bucket vs tank. Should match within 0.001 SG or 2 dGH.
Step 8: Net into displayNet new livestock into tank - NEVER pour bucket water into display. Discard bucket water + rinse for next use.
FAQ
Why drip acclimate instead of float-the-bag?
Float-only matches temperature but NOT salinity, pH, hardness. Sudden parameter swap = osmotic shock. Drip acclimation slowly transitions parameters over 60-90 minutes.
How long should drip acclimation take?
60-90 minutes for saltwater (more sensitive). 30-60 minutes for freshwater. Until original water volume has tripled (saltwater) or doubled (freshwater).
Can I drip acclimate multiple fish at once?
Only if from the same shipment. Each acclimation must be a single bucket. Do not mix water from different shipping bags.