Marine Services.....

Maintenance of filters, pumps, protein skimmers
When filters or pumps go faulty, it's easy to assume that they are defunct and need replacing and, indeed, this is the easy option. However, invariably, the items are not defunct - they simply need a bit of maintenance. With pumps it is often the impeller that is clogged with algae or other debris. Mike will strip the pump down, remove all surplus debris, and, more often than not, will have it working as new. Likewise with filters, in order for them to do their job properly, they still need to be maintained and cannot just be left - eventually they will become clogged.

Salt Levels
The most accurate way of measuring salt levels (salinity) is using a refractometer and this is exactly what Mike uses when checking marine tanks. He will always encourage customers to purchase their own refractometer but, like most things, they still need regular attention. With refractometers they need to be reguarly calibrated, otherwise they will give a false reading.

Water testing
Although fish-keepers are always advised to test their water on a weekly basis it invariably doesn't happen! Mike will automatically check your water parameters (pH, Ammonia, Nitrate, Nitrite, Phosphate and Calcium) on any maintenance visit. Water quality is of paramount importance for any marine tank. Any slight deviation could be catastrophic for the livestock.

Algae Clean
Maintenance visits will include cleaning algae off the inside glass – it will depend on the position of the tank (ie how much sunlight it gets) as to how much algae forms on the glass.

Medications
Medicating marines can be extremely difficult as there are a number of medications which are not not suitable for corals and inverts.There have been an influx of medications over the years but within the last few years, the licensing laws have tightened up considerably and many products have to have a license - if they don't then you need to consider whether the product is reliable. Mike will only use reputable medications and will ensure that they are suitable for your aquarium.

Water Changes
Regular water changes are essential for any marine tank and R.O. (reverse osmosis) water should always be used. Mike will bring sufficient water with him to be able to undertake a water change. If the tank just requires topping-up then unsalted R.O. water is used. If it is an actual water change then salted R.O. water will be used.

Holiday Cover
How often do people ask their next door neighbour to feed their fish and see to the filters whilst on holiday, only to find that the filter is clogged and the fish have been over-fed. Mike offers holiday cover where he will visit your home once or twice a week (or however often you require) to undertake these duties. This obviously requires a great deal of trust as you will have to provide him with access to your property. References can be provided if you wish to take up this service.