How to Maintain a 55 Gallon Fish Tank

Fish are a good pet choice for those looking to be entertained without the shedding, licking and more of a traditional pet. Many people think larger aquariums are more difficult to maintain and avoid them in favor of smaller, easily-portable versions. However, that generous amount of space means larger aquariums, such as the standard 55-gallon, are actually easier to care for. They are also preferable for private ownership compared to the large, commercial tanks that require specialty cleaning. Tank filets for 55-gallon tanks should be cleaned every two weeks.

Things You'll Need

  • Plastic gravel cleaner with hose attachment
  • 20-gallon bucket
  • Replacement filter mediums
  • Magnetic algae scraper
  • Dechlorinator
  • Liquid bacteria
  • Water test kit
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Instructions

  1. Cleaning the Tank

    • 1

      Turn off the tank filter and all tank lights. Remove the tank lid. Place a 20-gallon bucket next to the tank. Place the loose end of the gravel cleaner hose attachment into the bucket and ensure that it is secure.

    • 2

      Put the gravel cleaner into the tank and agitate the water to create a siphoning action. Dirt particles and other debris will float up from the gravel and be siphoned off, while the clean gravel will drift back down to the bottom of the tank. Use the siphon to send approximately 20 percent of the water from the tank into the bucket. Place your finger over the loose end of the hose, if necessary, to control the speed of the flow of the water.

    • 3

      Remove algae from inside the aquarium with a magnetic algae scraper. Attach the included magnets as directed by your particular product and run the scraper along the tank to loosen the algae so that the filter can remove it.

    • 4

      Measure the dirty water in the bucket. Throw it out. Fill the bucket with same amount of fresh, cool water. Mix in the amount of dechlorinator specified for the amount of water in your bucket. Pour this water into the aquarium to bring the water line back to the normal level. Follow the directions on the liquid bacteria you have chosen to add the correct amount to the aquarium.

    • 5

      Check the aquarium daily for any dead plant pieces or mold that should be removed immediately. Every one to two months collect a sample of tank water with a home aquarium water test kit and have it tested by a fish veterinarian or expert fish retailer. Add chemicals as recommended to make the aquatic environment ideal for your tank dwellers.

    Cleaning the Filter

    • 6

      Remove the filter medium (this is the sponge-like piece that slides in and out and collects the dirt and debris) and dip it into the bucket of water that you removed from the tank.

    • 7

      Move the filter medium around in the water until it is clean. Squeeze out the excess water.

    • 8

      Slide the filter medium back into the filter. Never rinse the medium with tap water, as this will kill off useful bacteria.