Setting Up Tropical Freshwater Fish Tank Aquariums – Getting Started

Aquarium equipment To set up tropical freshwater fish tank aquariums you will need the following equipment: filter, heater, lighting, gravel, plants and decor. You will also require replacement filter media and aquarium test kits to test water parameters and monitor the nitrogen cycle. I strongly advise buying complete system fish tank aquariums which come with all the necessary aquarium equipment. This means you are not puzzled as to what exactly you need for starting your aquarium or confused by the array of different types of equipment on offer. Buying tank aquariums with everything you need gives you peace of mind and relieves a lot of stress!

Setting up your aquarium Before purchasing an aquarium you need to decide on the space you have available and research the adult size of the fish you would like to keep, both of which will indicate the size and shape of aquarium that would be suitable. Considering all this has been carefully planned 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. Place aquarium (on a stand, if necessary) in an area away from direct sunlight, heat and draughts, as these alter the light and temperature of the tank. Also ensure that the floor is able to support the total weight of the aquarium when filled with water (approximately 10 pounds per gallon of water).
2. Wash out the tank with water as hot as you can tolerate. Do not use soap or detergents as residue will be harmful for tropical fish.
3. Place 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 remove any dust or debris. Add the gravel to the tank, covering the under-gravel filter. Create a gentle slope of gravel, deepest at the back.
5. Wash all artificial plants and aquarium decorations in hot water and arrange in the aquarium.
6. Attach the aquarium heater to the inside of the 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. Of course, you need to have researched the species you intend to keep to learn about specific temperature requirements.
7. Set up the aquarium filter according to the instructions supplied, placing the filter media inside.
8. Place a dish on the bottom of the aquarium to break the force 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 tank. (They are easily repaired with aquarium silicone).
9. Unless the aquarium lighting is already fitted underwater, place the light on top.
10. Plug in all the equipment and check that everything is working correctly. Make sure there is a dip in the cord before it reaches the electrical outlet, known as a ‘drip loop’. This ensures the water rips off onto the floor and does not run directly into the electrical socket.

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

What to do after initial aquarium setup Let the tank settle and the water stabilize for a few days. During this time you need to keep monitoring the water parameters using aquarium test kits to ensure they are suitable for the fish you intend to have (temperature, pH, hardness, ammonia).

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

Aquarium maintenance When the nitrogen cycle is complete and you begin adding fish to your aquarium, you need to begin a maintenance schedule. Daily check that fish are healthy, especially during feeding times, and ensure that the filters and heaters are functioning properly. Clean your tank every one to two weeks and perform 25% water changes every month.

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