How to Keep Your Fresh Water Fish Tank Cool in Hot Weather

The ideal water temperature range for most freshwater aquarium species is between 76 to 82 degrees Fahrenheit. Even if you feel comfortable in a room where the temperature is 75 to 80, your aquarium is a very small environment that may already be in the danger zone. When outdoor temperatures soar, many hobbyists simply crank up the air conditioning in their homes to prevent tanks from overheating. If you're not among the fortunate with that luxury, there are a few things that you can do to keep your fish comfortable during even the hottest conditions.

Things You'll Need

  • Nylon netting
  • Small electric fans
  • Live aquarium plants
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Instructions

    • 1

      Close shades and curtains in the room with the aquarium. Keep tank lights on for the minimum time needed for the health of your fish.

    • 2

      Remove the aquarium lid or open all of the covers to release heat from the water. Drape nylon netting over the tank to keep jumpers from escaping.

    • 3

      Set a small electric fan near the open aquarium and direct airflow across the top to blow the heat away as it rises.

    • 4

      Keep your aquarium understocked during hot weather. The more fish in the tank, the more oxygen is needed to supply them.

    • 5

      Crank up the air pump to its maximum capacity to add extra oxygen to the water and help heat exchange at the surface.

    • 6

      Plant and float as many live plants in your aquarium as you can to add oxygen.

    • 7

      Remove uneaten food and debris, which quickly rot and remove oxygen from the water.