How long can pump be off?

We need to turn the pump off to make some changes with our filter, skimmer, etc. this morning.

How long can we safely leave the pump off? I'm thinking we need about 2 hours or so.

Thanks!
julie

 

should be fine

 

I've got a semi related question... go you guys do water changes with your return pumps off? I pulled 20g's out of a 155g for the first time last week.. and killed the pump for a bit so i didn't run it dry..

I think you'd probably be good for a lot longer Julie assuming you have a powerhead in the tank for circulation.. so I wouldn't rush any maintenance to get in under the hour or 2 hour window..

 

I take it we are talking about the return from the sump. It could be off for hours as long as you power head/s are on, or at least one for circulation.

 

I have read that after about 6 hours a heavily loaded aquarium will start to run low on oxygen. Bacteria will start to die. Do you have an air pump? Keep a power head or something running will help, but 2 hours won't hurt anything.

 

Thanks for your help! I really appreciate it

 

i would not worry about a pump being off for 2 hours.. during a power outage mine was off for 24 hours and no ill effects found so have no fear and take your time doing what it is you need to do