Setting Up a 10 Gallon Aquarium

A 10-gallon tank is a great option for fish hobbyists who are just starting out, or if you just want something to brighten the living room a little. Expect to pay a few hundred dollars for the aquarium and equipment, but that is a low price compared to many larger aquariums with more exotic fish. Setting up and maintaining a 10-gallon aquarium is not difficult, and you can create a good environment for your fish by following a few simple steps.

Things You'll Need

  • 10-gallon aquarium with built-in light sockets
  • Aquarium light bulbs
  • 15 pounds of sand or gravel
  • Power filter
  • Air pump
  • Thermometer
  • Heater
  • Fish net
  • Water dechlorinator
  • Algae scrubber
  • 2 two-gallon buckets
  • Gravel vacuum
  • Live plants and plant food
  • Tank stand (optional)
Show More

Instructions

    • 1

      Consider setting up a tank stand first to absorb the weight of the tank, which may reach 100 pounds.

    • 2

      Rinse everything off that will go in the tank, and then put the gravel in first as well as any ornaments for the tank.

    • 3

      Fill the tank up half full of water and then add the plants.

    • 4

      Fill up the tank completely with water when you have placed all the items in the tank. Add the dechlorinator to the tank according to the directions.

    • 5

      Install the heater, filter, thermometer and air pump, again following the directions for the brand or type you bought.

    • 6

      Let the aquarium run for a day before adding fish to allow the filter and dechlorinator to work, as well as to make sure the aquarium doesn't leak.

    • 7

      Buy fish that are not delicate and will adapt to the new environment quickly. Choose starter fish like guppies, goldfish and tetras.

    • 8

      Get bottom feeders like catfish to eat food off the bottom and get rid of algae. They stay out of the way of the other fish and do a lot of the cleaning work for you.

    • 9

      Use the algae scrubber to remove algae as it grows on the tank. Keep the aquarium away from windows, as sunlight will encourage algae growth.