So your love of fish has you thinking about setting up an aquarium in your home, or perhaps your office. It may be a mistake to think that this is easy, but there are numerous choices to make before getting started and certain equipment to purchase, such as aquarium filters, that will be essential to your aquarium and the well-being of your fish.
The first decision you will need to make is fresh or salt water, or maybe even warm water. The type of fish you want to care for will determine which of these options is best for you. Tropical fish, like our familiar movie star ‘Nemo’, will require a warm water environment, so a heater is essential for your tank. However, if this is your first time, it is advisable to start with a cold water tank until you are more confident and know more about caring for your fish. Fish from the tropics are more sensitive and generally more difficult to care for.
If this is your first time, find a tank that holds around ten gallons of water. Over time, you have the option to expand it if you deem it necessary. If you’re serious about fish already, a 30 gallon tank with room for a good variety.
The aquarium stand can be just as important as the tank itself, allowing for a stable hold on the tank, and in some cases, you can buy them with extra storage to keep fish food and other supplies close at hand.
When setting up your tank, make sure of the ideal location to place it, as once it is full of water, it will be more difficult to relocate.
Your aquarium must be completely clean and dry before proceeding. It is also recommended to wash the gravel before placing it in the tank. If you want to apply a background image, now is the time to do so, remembering to always place it on the outside of the tank unless the instructions say otherwise.
Next is the aquarium filter. It should be easy to install if the manufacturer’s setup guidelines are followed. Typically, the water filter will go in the back corner of the aquarium with the outlet just below the surface of the water. This is one of the most essential additions to your tank, as it removes the waste produced by the fish. Without one, it’s inevitable that your fish will contract harmful diseases and eventually die. Most filters are mechanical devices that trap debris so you can remove it manually.
Others, biological filters, will transform toxic waste into less harmful nitrates, which will be discarded the next time you change the water. The internal sponge, which acts as a filter, should be cleaned periodically to prevent the filter from running slowly. The downside to this is a limited supply of oxygen in the tank, a vital element for your fish. You can also buy external filters. The water is drawn from the tank, filtered, and then pumped back into the tank. They have an advantage over internal filters in that they require less cleaning and can be upgraded with add-ons that will give you better water quality. These types of filters are often considered the best option.
With the filter in place, you can begin adding gravel up to 2 inches deep, followed by fresh drinking water, leaving some headroom at the top of the aquarium.
Install the heater and pump as shown and adjust the thermostat as indicated in the manual. Place the thermometer in the front or side of the glass so you can check it regularly. Now you can decorate with a variety of rocks, plants, and other items that will be safe and enjoyable for your fish.
Install the light at the top of the aquarium.
Lastly, allow 24 hours for the water to settle before purchasing your fish. It’s best to start with a few at first before adding others that are compatible with what you already have.