Setting up an Aquarium

THESE INSTRUCTIONS ARE MEANT TO BE DONE IN ORDER

LOCATION:

The tank should be placed away from windows, outside doors, heating vents or air conditioners.

Direct sunlight may cause algae growth and sudden fluctuation in water temperature may stress fish. Also, a full aquarium weighs about 10 pounds per gallon of water (a 40 gallon tank will weigh about 400 pounds). Be sure your floor will support the weight of the tank/stand you are

installing. If you are using a rear mounted filter, make sure there is enough room between the tank/stand and the wall to accommodate its’ use. Most tanks will require at least 3 electrical outlets.

THE AQUARIUM:

The tank must be placed on a level surface. If the tank is put on a stand that is not level it may

develop a ‘pressure crack’ from too much water ‘pushing’ against one side of the tank. Pressure cracks are not warranted since it is the tanks’ position, not its’ quality that causes the crack. Wipe down the aquarium using warm water and a paper towel. This will remove any dust that may be in the tank. DO NOT USE BLEACH, GLASS CLEANERS OR SOAPS OF ANY KIND.

AQUARIUM GRAVEL:

Add about one pound of gravel per gallon of water. Remember that crushed or ground glass gravels can cause damage to the mouths of some bottom feeders. Aquarium gravel can be dusty. Try to remove as much dust as possible by rinsing the gravel in a bucket with water. Gravel washes are also available to help in this process. You will not get all of the dust and small particle out, but your filter will remove the rest. You should dedicate a bucket for aquarium use only to help prevent any soap or cleaning product residue from accidentally contaminating the tank. If you are using an under gravel filter, it should be installed first, according to the manufacturers instructions. Also, if you are using a substrate for plants, it should be installed first. Such substrates may preclude the use of an under gravel filter.

CHECKING FOR LEAKS:

Fill the tank 1/3 full with tap water (The closer the water is to 78 degrees the quicker your heater will stabilize the water temperature). Wipe off the outside of the tank and check for beads of water or leaks around the seams and bottom edges of the tank. If the tank leaks, empty it and return it to the store for a replacement.

FILTERS/AIRSTONES/DECORATIONS:

Install the filter and aeration devices at this time. DO NOT PLUG IN. Some outside filters may need to be primed. If using an air pump, make sure that it is either located above the potential high water mark or contains the proper check valves. Also add whatever decorations or aquascaping you may wish to use.

FILLING THE TANK:

If no leaks have been noted, fill the tank the rest of the way with water. Remember the closer to 78 degrees the better. To protect you decorations and aquascape use a small saucer or bowl; place in the bottom of the tank and pour the water into that. Check seams and edges again for leaks. Add the appropriate amounts of water conditioners.

THE HEATER/THERMOMETER:

Install your heater at this time. DO NOT PLUG IN. Clip on non-submersible heaters should be placed close to your filters’ outflow. Submersible heaters should be placed close to the inflow. These placements will allow heated water to be more evenly dispersed. Wait at least 30 minutes before plugging in you heater. This will allow the units’ thermostat to adjust to the water temperature. In larger sized aquariums, an air stone placed as far from the filter as possible will also increase water circulation.

The thermometer should be placed at the end of the tank opposite from the heater, in a position that is easy to check.

LIGHTS....CAMERA....ACTION:

Install your lighting device at this time. If you’re using a full hood, place it on the tank using the appropriate cutouts for the filter/heater/aeration devices. If using a strip light, place the glass cover on the tank first, cutting out the spaces in the back plastic strip to accommodate the filter/heater/aeration devices as necessary. Plug in all electrical devices at this time, making sure that all electrical cords touch the floor before looping back up to the outlet. This is called a ‘drip loop’ and will ensure that any water dripping down the cord will land on the floor and not in the outlet.

STABILIZATION:

Allow the tank to operate from 24-48 hours before adding any fish. This will allow the atmospheric gasses in the water to dissipate and will allow you time to regulate the water temperature appropriately. Check the PH of the water to make sure it is appropriate for the fish you want to have, Once the temperature and PH have remained stable for 24-48 hours you are ready to start the nitrogen cycle. A number of products are available to help you with this process. Your salesperson will be able to advise you on the one most appropriate for your needs.

CHECKLIST:

Aquarium

Stand

Gravel

Filter/aeration devices

Light/Hood

Heater/Thermometer

Water conditioner/Test kit

Net

Decorations

Food

Bucket/siphon

Books

When pets talk, we listen

648 Putney Road
Aubuchon Plaza
Brattleboro VT
802-257-3700 / 149 Emerald Street
The Center At Keene Marketplace
Keene NH
603-352-9200 / 1284 US Route 302
Twin City Plaza
Berlin, VT
802-479-4307