Can You Place an Aquarium Next to a Window?

Some aquarium shops place tanks right at the storefront windows facing foot traffic. They do this for the purpose of attracting shoppers with beautiful displays of plants, fish, invertebrates, and decorations, but they may refrain from doing so if the windows are exposed to hours of sunlight each day. Some shop managers decide on window-facing tanks regardless of constant sunlight, but they’ll also have to deal with aggressive algae bloom and growth, which means they must be prepared to provide equally aggressive cleaning and maintenance.

Algae bloom is the main reason you shouldn’t place a tank close to a window. There are other reasons as well as exceptions. The trusted staff at Aquatic Warehouse, a leading provider of saltwater and freshwater aquarium supplies, discuss these reasons below.

Constant Sunlight and Algae

It’s incorrect to place the entire blame of aquarium algae growth on the sun. Balanced ecosystems such as lakes, streams, and the ocean don’t experience algae overgrowth even though the sun shines right on them on a constant basis. However, this isn’t the case when external factors such as agricultural runoff are introduced. It takes more than just sunlight for algae to bloom. It also requires nutrients, and these happen to be plentiful in aquariums. Fish food as well as waste serve as algae nutrients, and the rays of the sun provide the rest of the blooming process. If you can block sunlight with drapes, this will minimize the issue of algae growth.

Unprotected Windows

If you live in a region where you’d have your windows open and directly exposed to stiff breezes or rain, your aquarium is at risk of impact from debris and flying objects. However, the exception in this case would be hurricane shutters or impact-resistant glass panes. It wouldn’t be practical to move your tank away from the window every time a hurricane warning is issued.

Water Temperatures

Tropical fish are hardy aquatic species, but they can be quite sensitive to sudden changes in water temperature. Freshwater and reef tank species can adjust to gradual and seasonal shifts in temperature, but they’ll get stressed out if they’re exposed to sudden changes on a daily basis like direct hot sunshine or a cold wind. If you’re able to keep the window closed, and if your tank is equipped with a thermostat and an aquarium temperature controller, this shouldn’t be something to worry about too much. However, it could become problematic if the window allows cool drafts to hit the tank.

The Best Spot to Place Your Tank

If you can control the issues of direct sunlight, potential impact by flying objects, and water temperature, placing your aquarium near a window isn’t such a bad idea. Keep in mind that illumination, temperatures, and nutrients are factors you always need to be mindful of, and this will always apply wherever the tank is located. The best place for your aquarium is one where you can easily control these factors regardless of how close a window may be.

If you have any questions about how to properly care for your aquarium, get in touch with Aquatic Warehouse today. We carry everything you need to keep your tank running smoothly for many years to come. Check out what we have to offer on our website, come see us in person at our store in Kearny Mesa, or give us a call at 858-467-9297.