How to Maintain a Saltwater Fish Tank

Advances in salt water equipment have made salt water aquariums much more popular with the average person. However, even though it now takes less time and money to set up an aquarium, you still have to spend some time maintaining it. The best way to maintain your aquarium is to create a schedule. By following the schedule of daily, weekly and monthly projects, you will be able to keep your fish happy and healthy for years to come.

Things You'll Need

  • Salt water for aquariums
  • Filter pads
  • Activated charcoal
  • Salt water aquarium cleaner
  • Water test kit
  • Hydrometer
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Instructions

    • 1

      Take a look at the temperature every day when you feed your fish. It should remain around 75 degrees. Adjust the heater if the water falls above or below this temperature.

    • 2

      Use the water test kit to check for PH, Ammonia, Nitrites and Nitrates. These can be controlled by changing out a portion of the water once a week. The rule of thumb is change 25% of the water per month. Salt water fish tend to be very sensitive to changes in PH and temperature, so break up that 25% into a little each week, for the least amount of trauma to the fish.

    • 3

      Take a measurement of the oxygen and carbon dioxide every few days. The range should be between 7 to 10 ppm. Normally once the tank is set up and running, this will remain fine unless the PH is allowed to fall to dangerous levels for the fish. If it is off, adjust the PH.

    • 4

      Check salinity with a hydrometer. It should read at least 1.02. If there is not enough salt in the water than you need to change out some of the water, or check the water you are using. This can be checked at the beginning of each month.

    • 5

      While changing out a portion of the water, once a month, clean all filter pads and change the activated charcoal or other filter media you are using.

    • 6

      Clean the glass with a salt water aquarium cleaner or by mixing 1 part white distilled vinegar with two parts water and wiping it down. Do not use an ammonia based product or you could kill the fish.