Setting Up a Fish Tank in Your Home: A Guide

Introduction

Once upon a time, specialist aquarium shops were visible in almost every town to cater to neighbourhood enthusiasts. But this hobby has gone out of style somewhat and has become a bit of a niche hobby. But it persists as there are those who just like having a water feature inside their home. The soothing sound of the water flowing through the filteration system and the soft whirr of the oxygen pumps lend a calming effect to a home. Couple this with the usual soft blue or green light adorning most aquariums, these water features can give the space a special sense of tranquility.

Size

Fish tanks come in a variety of sizes ranging from small corner-fitting units or even a micro-unit to sit on a desktop. Larger varieties can stretch to six footers (length) and will be able to house more or larger specimen of fish.

Measurement is Key

Make sure you properly measure the dimensions of where you wish to place the fish tank. Ensure there is enough room lest the aquarium ends up dwarfing the entire space.

Water Outlet

Make sure the aquarium has easy access to a water inlet for cleaning purposes. Fish tanks need to be serviced and the water regularly changed, so this is a must.

Convenience is Key

Last thing you want is having to pull lengthy hoses or worse, ferry bucket loads of water to and fro, creating a mess.

Power Points

Same goes for power points. Aquariums will need oxygen pumps, filtration systems, and lighting. Do ensure there is at least one wall power point to power these items, which will be running 24/7.

Clutter-Free

Again, last thing you want is having coils of unsightly power cables ruining the aesthetic of the room. That would be self-defeating.

Convenience

For some with fur allergies, an aquarium is a great alternative to cats, dogs, or even hamsters. A fur-free environment should not then be substituted with a funky smelling fish tank. Do the necessary research or speak to fellow enthusiasts on the best filtration system for any given size of fish tank.

Species

Do you opt for fresh water fish or the salt water variety? The main consideration here is how much time and money one is willing to spend. Marine aquariums with neon-coloured salt water species along with living corals are a sight to behold but it does come with added expenditure. Getting the conditions right can be quite tricky and the consequence of getting it wrong is a tank of dead (very expensive) marine fish! Conversely, fresh water aquariums are a bit easier to maintain and can just be as delightful to watch.

Conclusion

If you give these factors proper consideration, you are well on your way to brightening your home with a beautiful water feature.

FAQs

Q: What is the best size fish tank for my home?
A: The best size fish tank for your home depends on the space available and the number of fish you want to keep. A general rule of thumb is to start with a small tank and gradually increase the size as you gain more experience.

Q: How often do I need to change the water in my fish tank?
A: Fish tanks need to be serviced and the water regularly changed, ideally every 1-2 weeks, depending on the size of the tank and the number of fish.

Q: What is the best type of fish for a beginner?
A: For a beginner, it is recommended to start with hardy and easy-to-care-for fish such as guppies, goldfish, or neon tetras.

Q: How do I choose the right aquarium filter for my fish tank?
A: The right aquarium filter for your fish tank depends on the size of the tank, the number of fish, and the type of fish. Research and consult with fellow enthusiasts or a professional to determine the best filter for your needs.