I began by powering off all of the equipment (filter, air pump, and heater). I then transfered as much water as possible out of the 55 gallon, and into a 30 gallon tank. The fish were kept in the tank until the 30 gallon was filled. This made it much easier to catch the fish since the water leve was quite low.

30 gallon:

All the fish were then transfered to the 30 gallon holding tank, along with a piece of familar decor. I put only a heater on the 30 gallon, in case the fish had to be kept here longer than expected.

I had been wondering for some time...How dirty is my gravel? Well, now I know. This 55 gallon was running for 6 months with water changes every 2-3 weeks at least. However, never has been vaccumed.

All of the gravel was finally removed, the dirty water was drained, and the tank recieved a quick scrub.

Out comes the gravel.....In goes the sand......

About 60 pounds of sand filled the 55 gallon tank to the desired level of 2" - 2.5". The decor was minimized for the time being, until a better planned design can be implemented.

Water was then transfered from the 30 gallon back to the 55 gallon. The water was poured onto a plate, which was layed directly on the sand. This stopped the water from moving the sand around.

Halfway:

Once the water level was high enough to put the heater on, the fish were transfered back into the 55 gallon.

AFTER: