How to Make an Old TV Console Into a Fish Tank

Converting an old console television into a fish tank can create a unique addition to any living space. Instead of having an unsightly metal stand that does nothing to hide the hardware of your aquarium, with a few simple modifications an old console television can house a large fish tank. The tank itself won't have to be modified so there is no need for messy acrylic glues or waterproof sealants. This project only requires a minimum level of skill with power tools and can be completed in under three hours.

Things You'll Need

  • Aquarium
  • Hammer
  • Nails
  • Scrap wood
  • Small pry bar or large flathead screwdriver
  • Hacksaw
  • Hinges
  • Screws
  • Tape Measure
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Instructions

    • 1

      Obtain a console television. This can be done at a flea market, garage sale, antique store or perhaps from a neighbor's attic.

    • 2

      Remove the backing from the television. Backings were commonly held in by staples so you may have to pry the particle board -- or thin wood -- out. Once the backing is removed also take out any of the staples that were holding it in so they won't scratch the tank you will be inserting.

    • 3

      Remove the circuit board that is now visible. Be careful not to break any tubes when you are removing the board. The insides can contain hazardous materials. If you do break one clean up the area before continuing.

    • 4

      Remove the cathode ray tube. This part can be dangerous because if the tube is dropped it could violently implode. Shards of glass could be projected at a high rate into the surrounding area. If the tube does not say "This tube provides integral implosion protection" do not try to remove it. These tubes, produced in the 1950s, are extremely prone to implosion. Have a professional remove it if you still want to proceed with the project.

    • 5

      Clear out any remaining wires from the interior of the console.

    • 6

      Cut the top off from the console with a hacksaw. Attach hinges to the back side of the top with screws and reattach the top. This new flip top lid will offer easy access to the fish tank once it is installed. You can put felt around the top edge of the console to make it flush and eliminate the occasional loud thump of the lid dropping.

    • 7

      Measure the interior of the console and the dimensions of the screen opening. Purchase a fish tank that is larger than the screen opening but smaller than the entire console so you have a place to hide the tank accessories.

    • 8

      Check the base of the console to make sure it can handle the weight of a fish tank. Most consoles built before 1970 are made of solid wood parts and should easily accommodate the tank without reinforcement. If the console is from the 1970s -- this will be evident from the plastic finishing on the front of the speaker enclosure -- you will need to shore up the bottom with scrap wood and new legs.

    • 9

      Place the tank in the console. If you want a background for your tank, adhere it before you place the tank in the console; it will be hard to do this after the tank is in place.

    • 10

      Fill the tank and start cycling it. Add plants and fish and enjoy.