How to Set Up an Aquarium

Setting up an aquarium or fishtank is a very easy task, but a lot of people mess it up. If you mess up this crucial phase, however, your fish may die. Also, that expensive aquarium equipment could easily break. However, setting up the aquarium is an easy process.

First, you need to make sure you set up the aquarium approximately 24 hours before you add the fish. This will allow the filter ample time to operate and remove harmful nitrates in the water. This will also allow the aquarium water to purify and harmful metals and other elements found in tap water will neutralize after adding the purifying solution. Finally, it will allow time for the aquarium heater to raise the aquarium water to the desired temperature. Also, you need to set up your aquarium in the place where you want to use it. Larger aquariums such as 5-10 gallons and up can be difficult to move after full of water.

Now we are ready to start setting up the aquarium. If you bought aquarium gravel, you will need to clean it. Put it in a metal colander and rinse it very thoroughly. The dust in the gravel can contaminate the aquarium and your fish will be more prone to untimely death. Next, put the gravel in the aquarium.

Now you can add the water. This is the easiest step, as you simply fill the aquarium almost to the top. The reason you fill it all the way to the top is so that you can pour the fish you buy into the aquarium. Now, if you used tap water, you need to purify it. Many places sell solutions and droplets that will purify the water. The general rule of thumb is to put 2-4 drops in for every gallon of water. This will neutralize any harmful elements such as calcium, zinc, and fluoride in the tap water. These elements, over time, can wear away the coating of your fish's body and lead to stress-related diseases and/or inability to swim and take care of itself. Generally, these drops only take around 5 minutes to completely purify the water, but you may as well allow it to circulate overnight with the filter.