In order to avoid OTS (old tank syndrome), you need to take care of it at least bi-weekly. It is due to the building nitrates in the water as nothing in the fish tank can completely remove them, only water changes can do that. Below is a list of tasks that you should carry out as you are responsible for the creatures in the tank.
20%-30% water change (more if there is an ammonia/nitrite spike)
Parameters check (pH, ammonia, nitrite, nitrates, hardness)
Checking the parameters is important to make sure there are no spikes.
Daily:
Feeding and observing the fish
There is not a clear answer on this one, as it depends on the type of fish you have, but you are generally okay to feed them once or twice a day in small amounts (a pinch). Many sites/packaging claims to feed them for up to 5 mins but that would most likely lead to overfeeding. I usually throw a few pinches and observe their stomachs, if they appear rounded, I know that they had enough. If their stomachs are visibly bulging, they have been overfed and I lower the amount next time.
Remember, some fish will learn to beg for food, even if they are not hungry, so the key is not to give in just like with any other animal. It is okay to give them special treats from time to time. Feeding time is also apt time to be noticing any abnormal behaviour or physical symptoms on your fish. A sick fish won´t usually eat or will seclude itself. Observe the symptoms and diagnose them as fast as possible so you can treat your fish in time.
Temperature check
This seems trivial but it can mean a difference between life and death. Get a digital thermometer and check the temperature at least once a day. You can tell the heater is working just by touching the glass as well. If your fish tank is in a colder part of your room, you might need stronger heater or even get two of them.
Weekly/bi-weekly:
20%-30% water change (more if there is an ammonia/nitrite spike)
This depends on the tank size and stock %. Larger water changes are needed if you are overstocked. Never do 100% water change, try not to exceed 75% and only if there is a big issue. Best dechlorinator is Seachem Prime which can treat huge amounts of water and also neutralizes ammonia and nitrites for 24h (very useful if you have a spike).
Filter sponge rinsing in aquarium water
Never rinse the filter under tap water, always put it into a bucket with aquarium water and squeeze the sponges out. With heavier bioload you might need to clean the filter more often.
Filter sponge rinsing in aquarium water
Never rinse the filter under tap water, always put it into a bucket with aquarium water and squeeze the sponges out. With heavier bioload you might need to clean the filter more often.
Parameters check (pH, ammonia, nitrite, nitrates, hardness)
Checking the parameters is important to make sure there are no spikes.
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