How Long Can a Fish Aquarium Last?

Fish tanks are an investment worthy of the time and dedication required to maintain them. The fact of the matter is that tanks require dedication. One tank will inevitably require more effort to maintain than another tank will. Various factors come into play over the course of time. Since some fish tanks require more or less maintenance compared to others, it’s best to know what details to look for in maintaining a healthy aquarium environment.

One of the most important aspects of maintaining a fish aquarium is performing regular water changes. Your tank can last a long time if the chemical levels in the water are maintained efficiently. Naturally, there are ways you can monitor the parameters of the water’s chemical levels, but it’s much more effective to replace the water itself by removing approximately a third of the total water of the tank every week and replacing the amount taken with fresh water.

On a similar note, it’s vital to test the water levels of your tank as often as needed. Levels to check in the tank include the pH level, nitrates, nitrites, and KH (or carbon harness) found within the water. The reason it’s important to check these is to maintain the structural integrity of your tank as a whole. Having an imbalance of any of these can lead to unnecessary wear and tear of the tank over time.

The filter is one of the most integral fish tank supplies. By keeping up with proper maintenance of your tank’s filtration system, you’re ensuring it continues to run smoothly. Think of the filter as a receptacle for waste. It’s similar to a trash can in that it needs to be emptied and cleaned out often. How often will depend on the aquarium. A good rule of thumb is to clean the filter once every four weeks at minimum.

It’s safe to say most aquariums follow similar maintenance guidelines. There are exceptions, as some tanks are specially made and have variances in size and materials used. Regardless of the type of tank, creating a daily, weekly, bi-weekly, and monthly routine to follow is what will determine how long it will last. Testing the water can be done every other week, while certain other tasks will be more appropriate for daily or monthly upkeep.

No matter what type of fish tank you have, you’ll need to obtain several supplies to maintain it properly, From aquarium monitors to protein skimmers, Aquatic Warehouse has everything you need to ensure the inhabitants of your aquarium remain healthy. Check out our website, stop by our store in Kearny Mesa, or give us a call today at 858-467-9297.