This plain, no-fluff aquarium maintenance guide is made for beginner fish keepers. Follow these simple, clear steps to keep your tank running smoothly and your fish healthy.
1. Water Level Check
Water evaporates naturally into the air over time, so you need to check the water level regularly and top up with fresh water as needed. Make sure the water fully covers the pump at all times. If the pump is exposed above water, it will make loud noises, wear out faster, stop filtering properly, and even burn out completely.
2. Water Pump Inspection
Check your filter pump regularly to make sure it’s working right. Soft, occasional noises from the pump during use are totally normal – this is just regular operation.
If the pump stops working, it’s usually stuck with debris like fish waste, leftover food, or small plant bits. Unplug the pump first, take it apart gently, clean out all debris inside, then put it back together and test it again. If it still doesn’t work after cleaning, contact our professional customer service for help – do not take it apart forcefully to avoid more damage.
3. Water Temperature Control
For tropical fish, check the water temperature regularly and keep it at a steady 22-30°C (72-86°F), the ideal range for most tropical fish. Big, sudden temperature changes are the main cause of common fish illnesses like white spot disease. Avoid quick temperature swings to keep your fish stress-free and healthy.
4. Water Changes & Cleaning
Change the water once a week. Only replace about 1/3 of the total tank water each time – do not change all the water at once, as this will disrupt the tank’s healthy balance.
5. Filter Media Replacement
Replace filter cartridges, filter pads and filter media regularly to keep good bacteria levels balanced in the water. After every filter media replacement, add new beneficial bacteria to the tank to keep the filtration system working effectively.
