Tips for Starting a Freshwater Aquarium

December 24, 2008
Eddie's Crew

Tips for Starting a Freshwater Aquarium

Location- Place the aquarium on a strong level surface preferably on an aquarium stand. An aquarium filled with water and gravel will weigh approximately 10 pounds per gallon of water. The aquarium may twist and leak if the surface is not suitable. Electricity should be nearby and since most aquariums have at least 3 items that need power (heater, filter, light) a power strip may be necessary. The aquarium will be easier to manage if not in direct sunlight or near a heat source.

Preparation- Wipe the aquarium with a damp paper towel, avoid any cleaning chemicals , they are toxic to the fish. The aquarium will look better and the fish will be more comfortable if an aquarium background is installed on the outside back of the aquarium. Many beautiful underwater scenes as well as solid colors are available at Eddie's. We prefer using clear shipping tape to secure the background to the aquarium. Next, add the aquarium gravel , gradually sloping the gravel slightly up in the back. Quality aquarium gravel should not need rinsing.  Next add the water, tap water should be fine. Make sure you add a water conditioner like Stress Coat or Novaqua to remove chlorine and condition the water.Mix hot and cold water and use your aquarium thermometer  to achieve an ideal water temperature between 75 and 80 degrees F. We suggest obtaining a bucket that will be used exclusively for the aquarium. Toxic chemicals could reside in buckets used for other purposes.

Filter & Heater- next install the filter and heater per the manufacturers instructions. Have questions? give us a call, 518-783-3474,  we are happy to  help!

Decorations- the purpose of decorating the aquarium is two fold. First it makes the aquarium look
like an underwater word and second the fish feel more comfortable. Fish need places to hide and establish territories. We suggest taller plants(plastic or real) in the back, shorter plants in the front and middle. Natural driftwood and/or rocks add a great centerpiece touch to the decor. An air pump can be added to add bubbles to the aquarium. Bubbles add interest and will improve the oxygen level in the aquarium.

H2O Q = Water Quality-   Water quality is the single most important element in maintaining a successful aquarium. Eddies offers FREE expert water testing and a consultation with one of our aquatic specialist. Bring a cup of water in a clean container (zip top bags are best) to take advantage of this service. Test kits are inexpensive and a great tool of aquarium management.
The parameters we are most concerned with are Temperature, pH, Ammonia, Nitrite and Hardness.

Nitrogen Cycle- a new aquarium goes through a process during the first 6-8 weeks. Familiarizing yourself with this will greatly improve your success, Like to read about it?

Equipment/Supply Checklist

Tank
Stand
Cover/Light
Power Strip
Light Timer (optional)
Heater & Thermometer
Filter
Water Conditioner
Gravel
Decorations
Aquarium Background
Test Kit