How to Insulate a 20 Gallon Tank

Maintaining an active aquarium can be tedious and expensive. The many hours spent cleaning, testing and performing general upkeep may test the boundaries of your passion for this hobby. One thing you can save yourself from is higher power bills due to heat loss from your aquarium. By insulating the tank with polystyrene, otherwise known by its trademarked name "Styrofoam," you can reduce the need for the tank heaters to turn on and warm up. This can help maintain a healthier environment for your fish by reducing temperature changes and save you money on your power bill.

Things You'll Need

  • Tape measure
  • 3 12-mm-thick polystyrene sheets
  • 1 36-mm-thick polystyrene sheet
  • Pen
  • Box cutter
  • Double-sided tape
Show More

Instructions

    • 1

      Use your tape measure to determine if your tank is a 20 gallons high (24-by-12-by-16) or 20 gallons long (30-by-12-by-12) tank.

    • 2

      Mark the measurements with a pen on each separate sheet of polystyrene. The thickest piece of polystyrene will be used for the bottom piece.

    • 3

      Cut the pre-measured pieces out with the box cutter. When done correctly, you should have two pieces the size of each end of your tank, one for the back of the tank and one thicker piece for the bottom. This leaves the top open for air flow and feeding, as well as leaving the front panel unobstructed so can view your fish.

    • 4

      Put strips of the double-sided tape along the top and bottom of all four sides of the tank that will have the insulation. The bottom should receive 4 pieces of tape, running along each edge.

    • 5

      Lift the tank onto the bottom piece of polystyrene. Press firmly to ensure it stays in place. Place the back piece on next, followed by the sides. Press firmly on all pieces to make sure they are secure. Move the tank to its permanent location, preferably in a cabinet for optimal heat loss reduction.