Habitat - Indoor :: Sand won't settle!

[a_rice]

So I got a new tank and added a bunch of sand. It's been 48 hours and it still hasn't settled. Any ideas? Is it normal for it to take this long when it's a new tank? Attached is a picture. Thanks

[ljapa]

It probably needed more rinsing.

Look at

viewtopic.php?f=9&t=30145

For the optional setup for water cleaning. Expect to need to change the floss/polishing pads soon.

[VeipaCray]

Eek if it's that bad wrap some filter floss (polyfill / pillow stuffing) around the intake of your filter and fasten it with a rubber band. Change it every few hours as it will clog fast. You water should clear in a day or so.

If you have a cheap powerhead like a MaxiJet pump the polyfill over the intake strainer works well as a temporary polishing filter.

[a_rice]

Okay. I will try that. I got up this morning and its a little better but not even close to clear.

[slider_keeper]

Yeah, you needed to rinse the sand more, but no fear do what the others recommended and keep changing the floss. It will clear:) When it clears, I'd recommend sifting your hand thru the sand to see if the sand kicks up and falls right back down. You don't want to have the sand float around and clog your filter, that could damage your pump impellers.

[a_rice]

What do I do if it keeps kicking up? Is There a way to keep it from doing that? This is my first sand experience and I thought I rinsed it well enough but I guess not.

[slider_keeper]

I know it would be a pain but scoop out the top layer and rinse it more than once! If it were me I would get as much out as I could and rinse it all!!!

[VeipaCray]

Once the nitrifying bacteria starts to colonize, it will actually weigh down the sand and help it from kicking up.

[a_rice]

Good. I am ready to put my turtles in there. They are going to have so much room to swim. I am so excited! This morning it was better so I'm hoping by tonight it will be ready.