Hello and welcome, I'm here to give you a few tips on setting up a successful aquarium at home. I myself have had many aquariums set up at home for many years and I think there great. Although it is quite tricky to get it right the first time, many of my friends and family also found it very demanding. But hey trust me when its all set up you can give yourself a nice pat on the back!, because seriously it makes a huge difference to the home and to yourself in general.
First things first when setting up you need to remember the following :
Setting Up Aquarium
- Keep the tank away from loud noises such as TVs, Radios and so forth, Fish don't like loud noises and constant exposure to noise will stress them out and eventually influence their well being negatively.
- Try to set up the tank away from heat sources that could potentially raise to temperature such as radiators and fires, this could raise the temperature of the tank water and make the fish ill, which we don't want.
- Strong light can have a large influence on algae in the aquarium, so try to avoid placing it near strong natural light sources such as windows/skylights. A little natural sunlight is perfect; too much will cause you problems with your water quality in a short space of time which in turn will have a negative effect on your fish's well being.
- Make sure the ground your placing your aquarium on is completely level, also be sure that the stand or cabinet your planning to place your tank onto is very stable and can hold.
Cleaning And Filling Aquarium
Once you have done all you need and feel your aquarium is up to your standards, you are ready to clean and fill that beauty up. Be sure to clean your tank up before adding your water, use a clean cloth, a bucket and lukewarm water. Check your cloth is absolutely clean because you can risk getting any unwanted chemicals into your tank. After completing this you are ready to add your gravel or sand, but wash it through many times before hand to ensure it is clean as a whistle. Just chuck it in your bucket and rinse through whilst stirring with your hand. Repeat this process till its all clean then empty any excess water out of your bucket.
When it comes to décor make sure its store brought and not out of the garden as it is harmful to the fish, but I'm sure your aware of that.
Adding The Electrical Equipment
What you will need :
- A heater, The heater will maintain a consistent temperature within the aquarium. The ideal temperature for basic community tank 21-28 °C. Ask your retailer what temperature is right for your fish.
- A filter, there are many to choose from and they all do the job. This is essential for really every aquarium to maintain clear and healthy water.
- A thermometer. This will allow you to keep an eye on the water temperature at all times. Your local aquarium retailer will offer a variety a different thermometers from LED, glass and digital.
- An airstone, air-pump and check valve. This provides the necessary oxygen for both fish and plants, helps with the filtration process by aerating the water and adding decorative touch with bubbles to your aquarium.
- Lighting. An aquarium light should be switched on for 8-10 hours a day, this is essential for natural plant growth and makes fish’s colours stand out.
Once all the décor and equipment have been added to your aquarium, it can now be filled with water. This is best done by placing a bowl/saucer on the bottom and slowly adding room temperature tap water using a jug. Once the aquarium is filled up completely, make sure your hands are dry and switch on the electrical equipment.Once your aquarium has been filled with water and switched on, you now need to add some water treatment. The water treatment adds the necessary bacteria for the aquarium’s biological balance. It is essential that these bacteria are introduced to your aquarium. They will help to establish a natural balance and maintain a good water quality. Water conditioner is available from all specialist aquatic retailers. Over the next few weeks check temperature and ensure that there is a good water circulation around the aquarium by adjusting the flow direction of moving air-stones.
Once the bacterial starter treatment has been added add a few flakes of food. This will help the filter to develop until your fish arrive. I strongly recommend that the aquarium is left to run for the bacteria to establish for 2-3 weeks before adding the first small introduction of fish.
And that it guys, I hope this guide helped you and that your happy with the set up. Any feedback would be great.
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