Python Pro-Clean Small Gravel Washer – 12 Inch
The Python Pro-Clean Small Gravel Washer is a manual aquarium siphon designed to remove debris from aquarium gravel while draining water during routine water changes. Its narrow 1-inch gravel tube provides controlled cleaning around plants, décor, rocks, and other tight areas of the aquarium.
This compact gravel vacuum includes a 12-inch cleaning tube and a 6-foot flexible hose, making it a practical option for small and medium freshwater or saltwater aquariums.
Key Features
- Helps remove fish waste, uneaten food, and debris from aquarium gravel
- Combines substrate cleaning and water removal in one tool
- Compact 1-inch-diameter gravel tube
- 12-inch tube reaches comfortably into many small and medium aquariums
- Narrow design provides better control around plants and aquarium décor
- Includes a 6-foot flexible siphon hose
- Suitable for routine freshwater or saltwater aquarium maintenance
- Manual design does not require a faucet connection or electricity
Product Information
- Brand: Python Products
- Product: Pro-Clean Small Gravel Washer
- Manufacturer Item Number: 12163-1
- Gravel Tube Diameter: 1 inch
- Gravel Tube Length: 12 inches
- Hose Length: 72 inches / 6 feet
- Operation: Manual gravity siphon
- Recommended Use: Aquarium water changes and substrate cleaning
- Aquarium Type: Freshwater or saltwater
Best Used For
- Small and medium aquariums
- Gravel-substrate aquariums
- Planted tanks with limited space around décor
- Routine partial water changes
- Removing debris from between rocks and ornaments
- Freshwater community aquariums
- Saltwater aquariums with suitable coarse substrate
How It Works
The Pro-Clean uses gravity to draw aquarium water through the clear gravel tube and out through the hose. As the tube is pressed gently into the substrate, lightweight waste and debris are lifted into the water flow while heavier gravel falls back into the aquarium.
The removed water can be collected in a bucket and replaced with properly conditioned water as part of a routine partial water change.
Directions for Use
- Place an aquarium-safe bucket below the level of the aquarium.
- Place the hose outlet securely inside the bucket.
- Submerge the gravel tube and begin the siphon using your preferred safe siphon-starting method.
- Gently press the tube into the gravel until debris rises into the tube.
- Lift the tube slightly and allow the gravel to fall back into the aquarium.
- Move to the next section and repeat as needed.
- Stop cleaning once the desired amount of aquarium water has been removed.
- Refill the aquarium with temperature-matched, properly conditioned water.
Starting the Siphon
This model is a standard manual siphon and does not include a squeeze-bulb starter. The siphon may be started by fully filling the tube and hose with aquarium water or by using another safe aquarium-siphon method.
Do not start the siphon by placing the hose in your mouth. Aquarium water may contain bacteria, medications, or other contaminants.
Using It on Gravel
Push the clear tube vertically into the gravel and allow the suction to lift debris. As the gravel rises inside the tube, lift the vacuum slightly so the gravel drops back down while lighter waste continues through the hose.
Work in sections rather than cleaning the entire substrate deeply during every water change. This can reduce disruption to plants and beneficial microorganisms living in the aquarium.
Using It on Sand
The Pro-Clean can be used carefully over sand, but the tube should usually be held just above the surface rather than pushed deeply into it. Move slowly and watch the sand inside the tube so it does not travel through the hose and into the bucket.
Pinching or partially bending the hose can temporarily reduce suction when working with lightweight substrate.
Maintenance Tips
- Rinse the tube and hose with clean water after each use.
- Allow the hose to drain and dry before storage.
- Do not use soap or household cleaning chemicals.
- Inspect the hose regularly for cracks, kinks, or blockages.
- Store loosely coiled to help prevent permanent bends.
- Use a dedicated aquarium bucket that has never held household chemicals.
Important Use Notes
- Unplug heaters before lowering the water level below them.
- Protect fish, shrimp, and snails from being drawn into the tube.
- Use extra care around newly planted or delicate aquariums.
- Watch the bucket continuously to prevent overflowing.
- Do not remove more water than intended during routine maintenance.
- Always condition replacement tap water before or during refilling.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does this include the hose?
Yes. The Python Pro-Clean Small includes a 6-foot flexible hose.
What are the gravel tube dimensions?
The clear gravel tube is approximately 1 inch in diameter and 12 inches long.
Does it connect to a faucet?
No. This is a manual gravity siphon. It does not connect to a sink like the Python No Spill Clean & Fill system.
Does it include a squeeze-bulb starter?
No. The standard Pro-Clean Small does not include the optional squeeze starter.
Can it be used in planted aquariums?
Yes. Its narrow tube can provide good control around plants, but avoid disturbing roots or deeply vacuuming planted substrate.
Can it be used on sand?
Yes, with care. Hold the tube slightly above the sand and reduce the flow when necessary to avoid removing substrate.
Can it be used in saltwater aquariums?
Yes. Rinse it thoroughly with fresh water after use to remove salt residue.
Available at Tropical Treasures Wyo
Shop the Python Pro-Clean Small 12-Inch Gravel Washer at Tropical Treasures Wyo in Cheyenne, Wyoming, or order eligible aquarium-maintenance supplies online for shipping.
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