Setting Up Tank Aquariums: Where Do I Start?

By: Jill Kaestner

Aquarium equipment
To set up fish tank aquariums you will need this equipment: filter, lighting, heater, gravel, plants and decor. You will also want replacement filter media and aquarium test kits to test water parameters and check the nitrogen cycle. I enthusiastically recommend buying entire system fish tank aquariums which come with all the vital aquarium equipment. This means you are not puzzled as to what precisely you need for starting your fish tank or confused by the array of numerous types of equipment on offer. Buying fish tank aquariums with all you need gives you peace of mind and relieves a lot of anxiety!

Setting up your aquarium
Before purchasing an aquarium you need to decide on the room you have available and investigate the adult size of the fish you want to keep, both of which will indicate the size and shape of fish tank that would be appropriate. Considering all this has been carefully designed and your ideal aquarium is sitting with all the essential equipment ready to be set up, you can follow these steps to stress-free successful aquarium setup.

1. Put fish tank (on a stand, if needed) in an area away from direct sunlight, heat and draughts, as these alter the temperature and light of the tank. Also ensure that the floor is able to carry the entire weight of the fish tank when filled with water (approximately 10 pounds per gallon of water).

2. Clean out the tank with water as hot as you can tolerate. Do not use detergents or soaps as residue will be harmful for tropical fish.

3. Set the under-gravel filter in the bottom of the tank (if your aquarium comes with one), following the instructions supplied.

4. Wash the gravel thoroughly in hot water using a sieve to eliminate any dust or waste. Add the gravel to the fish tank, covering the under-gravel filter. Form a gentle slope of gravel, deepest at the back.

5. Rinse all artificial plants and decorations in hot water and organize in the fish tank.

6. Fasten the aquarium heater to the inside of the fish tank with its suction cups but do not plug it in for at least 30 minutes until the thermostat has adjusted to the water temperature, otherwise the heater may shatter. Obviously, you need to have researched the species you anticipate to keep to learn about specific temperature needs.

7. Set up the aquarium filter according to the instructions enclosed, placing the filter media inside.

8. Set a dish on the bottom of the fish tank to break the power of the water and fill the aquarium with water that is at room temperature. Add de-chlorinator to the water if you are using unfiltered tap water. Check for any rare leaks as you fill the aquarium. (They are easily fixed with aquarium silicone).

9. Unless the aquarium lighting is already fitted underwater, place the light on top.

10. Plug in all the equipment and make sure that everything is working correctly. Ensure there is a dip in the cord before it reaches the electrical outlet, known as a 'drip loop'. This ensures the water drips off onto the floor and does not run directly into the electrical socket.

Your aquarium is now operative in its self but is still not ready for sustaining tropical freshwater fish. Beneficial bacteria needs to be established first, and the aquarium environment then needs to adjust as new fish are gradually added.

How to proceed after initial aquarium setup
Allow the tank to settle and the water stabilize for a few days. Throughout this time you need to keep checking the water parameters using aquarium test kits to guarantee they are ideal for the fish you plan to have (temperature, ammonia, pH, and hardness).

Nitrogen cycle
You will then have to begin the nitrogen cycle so your aquarium will be ready to support healthy freshwater fish (see related article 'Setting-Up Tropical Freshwater Fish Tank Aquariums: The Nitrogen Cycle').

Aquarium care
When the nitrogen cycle is concluded and you start adding fish to your fish tank, you should set in motion a maintenance schedule. Daily ensure that fish are healthy, especially during feeding times, and ensure that the filters and heaters are operating correctly. Clean your fish tank every one to two weeks and carry out 25% water changes once a month.

Copyright (c) 2009 Jill Kaestner @ Kaestner Marketing LLC

Article Source: http://www.collectibles-articles.com

Jill Kaestner I intend to supply you with expert guidance on setting up, stocking and servicing your fish tanks. With personal know-how in tropical freshwater aquariums and extensive professional research, information and guidance in my articles can be trusted. I have also started 'Aquarius', an online store to share with you some of my amazing aquariums bowls.

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