🐠 How to Set Up an Aquarium — Step by Step

Starting an aquarium is a rewarding hobby that brings the beauty of aquatic life into your home. Whether you’re a beginner or upgrading to a larger tank, setting up your aquarium correctly is the key to keeping your fish healthy and happy.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to setting up your first aquarium the right way.

1. 🛒 Choose Your Aquarium Tank

• Size matters: A 20-gallon tank is ideal for beginners—small enough to manage but stable enough for healthy water conditions.

• Freshwater or Saltwater? Decide early. Freshwater is easier and more affordable for beginners.

2. 🧹 Rinse the Tank & Equipment

• Use water only (no soap or chemicals).

• Rinse the tank, filter, gravel, decorations, and heater before placing them.

3. 🌊 Add Substrate (Gravel or Sand)

• Spread a 1–2 inch layer of gravel or sand at the bottom.

• Rinse thoroughly beforehand to avoid cloudiness.

4. 🪨 Place Decorations & Equipment

• Add rocks, driftwood, and hiding spots for fish.

• Install your heater, filter, and thermometer but don’t plug them in yet.

5. 💧 Fill the Tank with Water

• For freshwater tanks, fill with tap water and add a water conditioner to remove chlorine.

• For saltwater tanks, mix marine salt with purified water until the salinity is correct.

6. ⚡ Start the Filter & Heater

• Plug in the filter and heater.

• Adjust the heater to 75–80°F for tropical fish (or according to species needs).

7. 🌿 Add Plants (Optional)

• Live plants help oxygenate the water and reduce algae.

• Artificial plants work too and are easier to maintain.

8. 🔄 Cycle the Aquarium

• Crucial step! Cycling builds beneficial bacteria that keep the water safe.

• Run the tank for 2–4 weeks before adding fish.

• Test for ammonia, nitrite, and nitrate levels until stable.

9. 🐟 Add Fish Slowly

• Start with just a few hardy species (like guppies or zebra danios).

• Acclimate new fish by floating the bag in the tank for 15–20 minutes, then gradually add tank water before releasing.

10. 🧽 Maintain Regularly

• Perform weekly water changes (20–25%).

• Test water parameters.

• Clean filter media monthly (rinse with tank water, not tap water).

• Feed fish small amounts 1–2 times per day.