I usualy clean the debris from my tank by using a gravel vac with the hose extended out my window. [I use to use the python no spill clean and fill but you have to run the water while you clean the tank and that costs a lot of $ plus I get better suction out the window. I do still use it to fill my aquariums back up] I do 10-20% every other day just to clean the debris that settles. Is there a tool other then a bucket that will allow me to filter the debris without changing the water. Even with water conditioner it can't be good to add that much tap water every week plus I feel wasteful. Is there a better way? Also, what substrate is the best for oscars?

Also there is a strange smell like a pond odor coming from the tank. Any ideas on how to fix this? Maybe boost biological?

i have a strange pond smell that wafts from my tanks tooo... i thought it was normal.

i have a strange pond smell that wafts from my tanks tooo... i thought it was normal.

I had that smel cured it with 20%daily water changes for a week then every 3 days,still change 20% every 3 days.I use dorset pea gravel or substrate and do just fine,hope that helps a tad!!

a tank that smells is a sign of overfeeding,not enough filtration or dirty water.

u said u do fairly large water change every week so maybe u should tell us about yr feeding habbits & filtration.

Ive heard on various forums that tanks should have earthy smells.. Is there any truth to this??

Hm, what exactly is earthy? Like soil? Think if I hold the nose over my tanks, they have a slight smell like .. well water and plants, bit like a pond. No clue though if it's the same without any plants. I don't smell anything from farther away though.

i think thats what earthy should smell like
water and plants... you know that pond smell.

ohh well, my tank sits in my living room and i have people over all the time, no complaints yet

A fish tank will always smell a bit. Try getting some in your mouth when sucking on a pipe to get a siphon going. however it should not be too strong. If its strong then this is usually a sign of poor water quality. Try testing your water for ammonia, nitrite and nitrate and post the results. ammonia and nitrite should be zero and nitrate below 40 but ideally below 20