By choosing the right kind of aquarium, equipment, plants, decorations and optional accessories we lay the basis for the healthy conditions in our fish tanks. It is up to us the hobbyist to set up the closed environment in such a way that our fish can thrive.

This section will cover all the basics of setting up your aquarium in order to reach your goal. The pages are all linked to form an easy progression from area to area or you can skip right to where you want to go by using the navigation map below

THE AQUARIUM AND COVER

• Types of tanks:
  

  There are many types of fish tanks available today. They come in all shapes and sizes ranging from the standard rectangle to round with every geometric shape in between. The most common type construction is the all glass type, whose joints are sealed with clear silicon rubber, there are also available the new Euro style tanks where the clear silicon is replaced with black. Acrylic tanks are also becoming more commonplace.
  
  

• Tank size:
  

  The basic time tested rule still stands, the bigger the better, with the surface area more important than capacity.
  Larger tanks are easier to care of. The toxic substances released by the Biological or Nitrogen cycle are more dispersed in the larger volume of water, which allows the water quality stay higher for longer periods of time.
  Beginner hobbyist with their lack of experience will benefit from the larger tanks.

  For the beginner I would recommend the standard and inexpensive rectangular 55 gallon all glass aquarium with the approximate measurements of 48 inches long by 12 inches wide and 20 inches tall. A tank this size is easy to care for and yet not too large to be overwhelming. A common misconception of small fish equals small tank is not always true as the smaller fish tend to be more active and need more space to swim in.
  
  

• The Cover:

  
  

  Every aquarium should have a cover or top. A cover reduces evaporation, provides a solid surface to place the lights and prevents the fish from jumping out. It also protects the tanks' lighting from water splashing on them.
  The most common tank cover is made up of glass with a hinge in the center and a plastic filler strip which can be cut to fit the filter and other accessories. They are usually called a "Glass Canopy".
  Another very common top is the "Full Hood" which is a totally plastic top matching the trim of the tank. I prefer the glass canopy because it offers you more choice in the lighting and the clear plastic of the full hood becomes foggy and warps with time.

TANK STANDS

The placement of the aquarium is one of the choices that must be taken into consideration. Water is heavy weighing 8.3 pounds per gallon, so whatever you plan to place the tank on must be able to support a lot of weight.
There are different types of stands available some made of wood and some of wrought iron. Both are good with the wood being decorative as well as functional. Iron is stronger, but tends to rust over time. The choice is yours as there is sure to be one that fits your style and wallet, just remember not to skimp as a full fish tank is very hard to move if you have to replace its' stand.

Tank Placement

You would think that where to put your new fish tank is just a matter of where you want it. This could be true, but there are a couple of things to consider before you set up. You don't want the tank in an area that receives a lot of direct sunlight, you will be forever battling algae and also the temperature swings could hurt your fish. The same holds true if you place the tank on a north facing exterior wall, you might want to turn up your heaters capacity as this tends to be the cooler sides of homes. Make sure that wherever you place it it has a nice level floor area, uneven tanks tend to develop stress cracks over time. Just look around your intended area of placement with an open eye for problems as its a lot easier to move an empty tank than a full one.

SAFETY

• Accidents with electricity

  Various electrical devices such as filters, heaters, lights and powerheads are necessary to create the right conditions for our fish and plants. Everyone knows that water and electricity don't mix. A few simple common sense practices to get use to while working in or around your fish tank can save you money and maybe your life. I will list a few precautions here that might be taken for granted but you should be aware of.
  
  

  • Use only devices that are made specifically for aquarium use.

  • Make sure the device has the United Laboratory (UL) seal of approval.

  • Use a power strip with a built in circuit breaker or better yet a ground fault device.

  • Unplug ALL wires before you do anything in or around the tank.

  • Inspect your equipment regularly, discard any questionable items.

  • Have any electrical work performed by a licensed Electrician.
    
    
  
  
  
• Water damage and Insurance
  The nightmare of many Hobbyist- that the aquarium will burst-rarely ever happens, but you might want to be prepared just in case. Water damage, which can also be caused by an overflowing tank, sump or just a leak, usually cost a lot to repair. It might be a good Idea to include your fish tank in your property damage section of your Homeowners or renters insurance policy. You could contact your agent to find out if this available to you.

 

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