Ten Easy Steps to a Successful Freshwater Aquarium Installation

Here are a few simple guidelines to follow in order to make your tank set-up easy, fun and successful.

1. Rinse out the tank and wash the gravel with water (do not use soap or chemicals).
2. Put your tank on a strong base away from direct sunlight, heat vents and air conditioning vents. If not using a stand purchased from Blue Sierra Exotics, in wood, make sure your tank is on a suitable flat surface where water staining is not a problem, not Grandma's old oak dresser or the TV.
3. Gently pour the clean gravel into your tank.
4. Setup the filter and pump following the manufacturers instructions. Read and follow all equipment instructions. Please call us with any questions.
5. Position landscaping materials such as stones, wood and aquarium ornaments in the gravel.
6. Fill the tank half way with water; try not to disturb the gravel.
7. Add your plants (artificial, live or both). Place the plants in groups with taller plants in the back. Dig small holes in the gravel to put the roots or base in. Push the gravel around the bottom of the plants.
8. Fill your tank with water.
9. Add water conditioner to neutralize chlorine instantly.
10. Place the cover and light on the tank. Turn on the filter, pumps and lights. Leave the filter and pump running at all times. Check for leaks and temperature (76 to 78 degrees). Allow setup to cycle for a day.

Things to Remember
Wait at least 24 hours before adding fish to your tank. Start with a few fish at first, in order to start a biological filter, i.e. 6 to 10 small fish for a 10 to 20 gallon aquarium. Use bacteria stimulants such as Seachem Stability or Hagen Cycle to help in the cycling of the aquarium. After 7 days, before your purchase any more fish bring in a water sample so we can verify good water tank conditions.

Feed fish so they eat all food off the top of the water in about 10 to 15 seconds, allowing none to settle to the bottom. (If it looks like it's snowing in the tank, you've put in too much.) Feed for a total of 5 minutes, 1 or 2 times a day.

Tank Maintenance
A simple partial water change with a Gravel vacuum, is the best way to maintain water quality and healthy fish. Removing 1/3 of the water off the bottom, every 3 or 4 weeks, will help maintain good aquarium conditions. Replacement water should be same temperature, dechlorinated, using Prime or any other water conditioner. All this will set your fishes minds and bodies at ease. Any algae that may form needs simply to be wiped away with an algae pad. Once you see visible algae growth it is okay to add an algae eater such as a plecostomas. Leave your aquarium light off part of the time (8-12 hour light cycle on) and place a background on your tank to reduce light.

Thank You, Blue Sierra Exotics
Any Questions don't hesitate to call
425-392-5360

Use this handy checklist when you purchase your tank, equipment and supplies

New Tank Water Change Schedule | Getting Started Checklist
Tips for Choosing Fresh Water Fish | Tips for Adding Fish to Your New Aquarium