My new betta - Lilly2

[lharpster]

He is so pretty! I know it's a girl's name, but I don't think he minds too much! Besides, he looks just like my first one! I hope I have become a better betta keeper since then. I have read so much info on caring for him that I'm not sure what is right. I have him in a 2.5 gallon with a filter and a heater. Even though I have the filter, I know I will have to do a water change. Could someone please explain the steps I need to do a proper water change? Like how often, do I leave him in the tank during, do I treat the replacement water first then add it to the existing tank water? I have read so many different things that I'm now not sure what to do! Thanks for any suggestions.
Lori

[Cody]

To get water out, use a gravel vac to get everything off the bottom, and this will siphon water out. I would do...50% at least once a week, if not twice. Keeping him in the tank is fine.

To get it back in, make sure the water is as close to room temperature, or tank temperature as possible. And it needs to be dechlorinated. You can buy a dechlorinator at a LFS, or chain store for like 3 bucks.

[lharpster]

Thanks Cody. How long should I wait after dechlorinating before adding that water to the tank?

[Cody]

The dechlor will act almost instantly, but IMO, I let it stand for 10-30 minutes for it to "dilute" (if it would). You can add it directly to the tank once you dechlor, or leave it out for a while just in case. If I am somewhat in a hurry, I add it right to the tank. Not too much of a difference, actually.