How to Build a Filtration System for a Fish Tank

If you have three or more large fish tanks, you may want to build a centralized filtration system. This is the type of system used by most aquarium and pet stores and is quite beneficial to fish. It's easier to implement before setting up aquariums initially, but you can also modify existing fish tanks to work on a centralized system.

Things You'll Need

  • PVC piping
  • Water Pumps
  • Heater
  • Aquarium filter
  • Tanks
  • Drains
  • Tap
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Instructions

    • 1

      Drill the tanks that will be hooked up to the centralized filtration system. To avoid cracks, the filtration hole should be made during manufacturing or drilled by a professional glazier or aquarium builder. The holes should fit a one-inch pipe connector. Larger tanks (over 30 gallons) should have two holes.

    • 2

      Install a standpipe in each tank, which empties water in the tank once it reaches a certain level. This ensures you will never overflow a tank. The standpipe should attach to a drain.

    • 3

      Use PVC piping to connect the tanks to the filter. There should be a filtered drain connecting the tank and PVC pipes. Make sure all seams and joints are sealed properly.

    • 4

      Pump the water into the central line using a small water pump, unless you have built a sloping system that enlarges as the lines join. If you have limited space, a pump may be needed.

    • 5

      Empty water into large tank. The water that is removed should empty into a large filter, which basically takes up its own tank. Place a separate tank under your display tanks, hidden from view if possible, and filter the water in it as you would a regular tank.

    • 6

      Heat the water as it is being filtered, so that water at the correct temperature is being returned to the tank. Use a thermostat to ensure the heater and cooler keep the water at the proper temperature for your fish. Heat and cool the room as well to avoid temperatures fluctuating between tanks.

    • 7

      Return filtered water to the tank with a large centralized pump connected to PVC piping that heads back to the tanks. Use a water pump to move the filtered water down the return pipeline. The pump also supplies oxygen, so make sure you invest in good one. Keep the screen on at the intake of the pump.

    • 8

      Avoid elbows and direction changes as much as possible with your return pipeline. Each tank should have an individual tap.