How to Put Together a 10 Gallon Aquarium

Setting up and maintaining an aquarium can seem like a daunting task; however with careful planning and research, you will quickly see that the benefit is well worth the effort. Aquariums are a reflection of your own personal taste, and the choices of plants, decorations and fish are endless. From community tanks which house a variety of colorful species to one that is home to a lone Oscar, each aquarium is an individual wonderland.

Things You'll Need

  • Aquarium
  • Gravel
  • Colander
  • Under-gravel filter
  • Air hoses
  • Air pump
  • Plate
  • Plants/decorations
  • Water conditioners
  • Heater
  • Filter
  • Thermometer
  • Aquarium hood
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Instructions

    • 1

      Rinse aquarium, gravel and plants thoroughly in plain tap water to remove any dust or foreign material. Gravel often contains a large amount of dust and a thorough cleaning will prevent this dust from clouding your tank. A colander works great for this purpose.

    • 2

      It is very important to decide the location of your aquarium. Aquariums are very heavy when filled with water; a 10-gallon aquarium will weigh over 100 pounds and will be difficult to move. Your aquarium should be placed on a sturdy aquarium stand or countertop. Make sure the floor is level and is able to hold the weight of the filled aquarium. Keep your aquarium out of direct sunlight and away from heating and cooling vents. Fluctuating water temperatures are dangerous to your fish, and sunlight will encourage the growth of algae. When you have chosen the spot for your aquarium, you can begin the setup process.

    • 3

      Although under-gravel filters are not a necessity, they help keep your aquarium much cleaner. Place the under-gravel filter at the bottom of the aquarium and run the necessary air hoses. Be sure the air hoses are long enough to reach the air-pump.

    • 4

      Place the cleaned gravel on top of the under-gravel filter.

    • 5

      Fill the aquarium half way with water. To avoid displacing the gravel, place a small plate on top of the gravel and slowly pour the water onto the plate allowing the water to disperse over the sides.

    • 6

      Add plants and decorations to your aquarium.

    • 7

      Install aquarium filter and heater.

    • 8

      Continue adding water to your aquarium until it reaches about an inch from the top.

    • 9

      Add water conditioners and chlorine removers to the water.

    • 10

      Place aquarium hood and light on top of the aquarium.

    • 11

      Plug in all electrical equipment. Turn on heater and set to 75 degrees, prime filter and turn on aquarium lights. Depending on the type of thermometer you have purchased, either attach to the outside of the tank or place free-floating thermometers into the water.

    • 12

      Allow your new aquarium to "cycle." Cycling is the time it takes for an aquarium to establish the correct biological atmosphere. This process differs greatly among fish enthusiasts. Some recommend a complicated six-week process while others simply recommend adding certain types of fish. You should examine the different processes and decide which method works best for you.

    • 13

      You are now ready to add fish to your aquarium. It is important to acclimate your fish to the aquarium water before you release them. Turn off the aquarium lights and allow the bag containing the fish to float in the aquarium for about 20 minutes. This allows the water in the bag to gradually adjust to the water temperature in the aquarium. When it is time to release the fish, filter them into a fish net and dispose of the water in the bag. Place the fish gently into the aquarium and allow them 12 to 24 hours to adjust to their new home before turning on the lights or adding food.