Aquarium Maintenance Tips

Weekly, Biweekly, and monthly maintenance is an important part of keeping a healthy aquarium.

Water Changes

Water changes are essential to a successful aquarium.

• A water change should be performed approximately every 2 weeks. Usually 10-15% is enough.
• It is essential to check the new water you introducing to the aquarium. Tap-water can contain chlorine or chloramine which must be eliminated before putting in the tank.
• Local tap water can also contain phosphates, iron and other heavy metals. Call your local water company to find out about your tap-water chemistry.

Testing

It is essential to check water chemistry on a regular basis.

The vital parameters to test in your aquarium are pH, nitrates, nitrites, and carbonate hardness and salinity for marine tanks.

• pH should be at 6.5 – 7.5 for most species.
• Nitrites should be zero at all times (except during cycling). If nitrites are detected make sure you check your ammonia also.
• Nitrates should be kept below 10 ppm in freshwater and 5 ppm in marine and reef (preferably 0 ppm).

Recommended Maintenance Routine

Daily

• Be aware of how your fish are acting, changes in behavior can indicate a potential problem.
• Check your equipment to ensure it is running properly.

Weekly

• Keep an current inventory of the livestock in your aquarium.
• Dead animals can decompose very quickly, which can easily cause an ammonia and/or nitrite spike, which then lead to high nitrate levels.

Every Other Week

• Test your water : pH, ammonia, nitrite and nitrate (salinity in salt and reef tanks).
• Vacuum the gravel and change 10-20% of the water.
• Clean the aquarium glass.
• Rinse filter cartridges with the the water you pulled from the tank.
• Replace carbon and filter floss (if present).
• Inspect all equipment and parts for proper operation.
• Wipe clean your aquarium top glass so that your lighting is not affected.
  

See Also:

• Resources