Helpful Guide To Set Up A 30-Gallon Fish Tank
Do you want to learn fish-keeping and plan to buy a fish tank for that purpose?
Great! You have arrived at the right place.
In this article I am going to tell you everything about 30-gallon aquariums, from its setup procedure, to the right types of fish you can keep in it and also about its maintenance.
With a tank size not so small as a 20-gallon aquarium and not so large as a 125-gallon aquarium, it is a perfect fit for all those who want to shift from a smaller one to a comparatively larger tank.For beginners, it could be a challenge to start with a 30-gallon tank as the tanks do not come with all-in-one kits. It means that you are expected to do a detailed research before buying a perfect tank.
STEP 1: PICK YOUR IDEAL FISH TANK
Since the first step in the set up procedure is buying the perfect tank from the right brand, here I have mentioned my top picks in 30-gallon aquariums and all the know-how of set-up and maintenance tips.
Every tank is unique and has some fantastic features.
If you are confused about what to choose so that your fish could get the most comfortable, happy, and safe environment, check out our useful buying guide.
SEACLEAR ACRYLIC AQUARIUM COMBO SET- SPACIOUS
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If you want to keep your fish in a spacious environment, then this is the best pick for you. This acrylic aquarium is a reliable with an elegant style.
The outer body is extremely durable and can tolerate multiple bumps without breaking. The filter has a 3-stage filtration process which keeps the water clean at all times. Thanks to its rigorous filtration system, the water is clear from any unwanted particles, dirt, impurities, harsh chemicals, which could turn the water uninhabitable for your fish.
Another great feature is its light fixture which illuminates all the contents of the tank. Features:
- Product Dimensions: 36*12*16 inches
- Comes in 3 amazing shapes: hexagon,rectangle, bowfront,
- Excellent filter
- 24-inch light fixture
- Comes with a reflector
- Lightweight Acrylic body
- Not prone to chipping or cracking
- Safe for both saltwater and freshwater base
You can buy this amazing tank on Amazon at a reasonable price.
CORALIFE LED BIOCUBE AQUARIUM- FULLY-AUTOMATED
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If you are looking for automatic fish tanks and are not hesitant to spend some more for your 30-gallon aquarium, then Coralife LED Biocube is the best choice for you.
One of the many striking features of this fish tank is its phenomenal design. The sleek design with curved edges offers beauty, safety and comfort.To make your fish feel at home and reorient their senses for proper growth, this fully-automated tank has LED lights which imitate sunrise and sunset.
The LED light comes with a hood to prevent your fish from absconding. Features:
- Product Dimensions: 20.2*21.9*21.5 inches
- Fully submersible silent filter
- Hinge-top canopy design
- LED light with hood
- Different lights for daytime and nighttime
- Compact and customizable built-in filters
- Durable body
- Quiet submersible pump
- Easy to setup and clean
You can buy this fantastic product on Amazon at low prices.
AQUA CULTURE AQUARIUM STARTER KIT- BEST FOR BEGINNERS
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As it is difficult to find a 30-gallon aquarium with a full kit, this could be the best choice for beginners.
It comes with a starter kit which includes all the necessary equipment. It is easy to setup and clean and made up of strong glass that can withstand multiple bumps without cracking. The filter is fully submersible and runs quietly without any sudden noises and keeps the water crystal clear at all times. The LED hood provides great comfort and safety for the fish.
Features:
- Strong glass material
- Comes with a kit
- Free fish food available
- LED lighting with durable hood
- Silent, submersible filter
Get it on Amazon at a reasonable cost.
SEACLEAR 30-GALLON RECTANGULAR ACRYLIC FISH TANK- BEST QUALITY MATERIAL
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This acrylic fish tank from Sea Clear is a best seller. It is rectangular in shape and you can add Blue/Black/Clear back panel door, light fixtures, and acrylic lids in it according to your personal choice.
It is lightweight and has an exceptional clarity enabling unobstructed views of the underwater world. The aquarium allows you to create freshwater, marine and reef environment.Features:
- Product Dimensions: 36*12*16 inches
- Shape: Rectangle
- Body material: 3/16 inches
- Top: ¼ inches
- Access Opening:28*5
- Lightweight
- Crystal clear view
Get the product from Amazon at comparable reduced prices.
CLEAR-FOR-LIFE 30S RECTANGLE UNIQUARIUM- BEST FILTRATION SYSTEM
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Clear-For-Life is one of the most reputable aquarium brands in the market. This fish tank is ideal for both novice and professional aquarium hobbyist.
One of the best things about this product is that it is very easy to install and use. It has a 3-in-1 filtration system which includes chemical, mechanical, and biological filtration for a comfortable underwater environment for the fish.
You can also turn it into a saltwater or freshwater aquarium, thanks to the larger biological area,and high flow powerhead. Separate chamber for a heater is available. The product comes with an optional Clear-For-Life Venturi skimmer.
Features:
- Product Dimensions: 36*12*16 inches
- Shape: Rectangle
- Self-contained aquarium
- Acrylic body
- Lifetime warranty available
- No leakage
- No drilling or plumbing required
You can purchase it from Amazon at a great price.
STEP 2: CHOOSE THE RIGHT STAND
A fish tank stand is fundamental to aquarium shopping. It provides support, safety to the tank and gives it a beautiful, elegant look.
There are a lot of choices available while looking for a 30-gallon aquarium tank, here I have listed 3 of the most stunning and durable stands.
AQUATIC FUNDAMENTALS 30/38/45 GALLON UPRIGHT AQUARIUM STAND
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This stand is moisture-resistant and hold upto 30/38/45 gallons of aquarium tanks. It has a strong metal-to-metal locking cam.
The stand is made of long-lasting fiberboard that is extremely sturdy, hard-wearing. It comes with a hinged door giving easy access and ample storage for pumps, filter, and food.The back of the stand is open to allow easy connection of route chords and tubes inside the aquarium.
Features:
- Product Dimensions: 37.37*13.2*28.25 inches
- Basic design with black coating
- Single support brace at the back
- Manufactured in the United States
- Ideal for supporting rectangular aquariums
Get this amazing stand on Amazon at the right price.
TITANEZE 30-GALLON TANK STAND
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It is a fully knock-down aquarium stand available in the market. The tank comes with a powder coating making it rust-resistant and immune to water-damage.
It can be placed in several places like home, workplace, classroom, or even lab. The tank stand can hold 30-gallon aquarium with fish, reptiles, amphibians, or small creatures. No special tools are required to assemble this product.
Features:
- Easy to assemble
- Covers very less space
- Available at low cost online
- Rust-resistant
- Resistant to water damage
You can get your hands on this stand at a reasonable price on Amazon.
STEP 3: 30-GALLON AQUARIUM EQUIPMENT
Heaters, filters, and hoods are among the must-haves of aquarium equipment. They provide sufficient nutrients, run cycling process, and maintain a constant temperature in the tank.
HEATER
To create and regulate a constant water temperature in your aquarium is totally up to you. This can be achieved by using a water heater.
With a 30-gallon aquarium, it is not necessary to use an extremely power heater or two heaters at a time.Thanks to its comparatively smaller size, you can get a handy, automatic, adjustable heater.
My top picks are:
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FILTER
Aquatic animals need nutrients for proper growth and comfortable environment. A filter helps keep the water aerated and clear of all impurities and harmful substances.
There are different types of filters available for different aquariums like external, internal, or substrate filters.Here are my personal favorites in 30-gallon water filters:
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LIGHTS
Lights play an important role in the world of aquarium. It affects the behavior and health of fish in many ways.
Enough amount of sunlight is necessary for aquatic animals to grow. It also lightens up your aquarium, thus improving the aesthetics. No products found.
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HOOD, PUMP, GRAVEL VACUUM
Other equipment like aquarium hood or a simple lid are important to protect the tank from any damage.
A gravel vacuum is useful in cleaning the substrate easily. Moreover, an aquarium pump helps in mixing up the water and enhancing the overall performance of filter. STEP 4: SETTING UP THE AQUARIUM- ADDING WATER
Clean your 30 gallon tank with warm water and then add dechlorinated water to it. Since it is not a big size, it will take a few minutes to clean.
Do not forget to cycle the tank every now and then, as it helps in building up necessary nutrients in the water and keeping the water clean. STEP 5: INTRODUCE THE FISH
In this step, you need to add the fish to the aquarium tank. To know the detailed process about adding the fish into the tank, visit our website.
You can create different types of aquarium environment like-community aquarium, species-only aquarium and Paludarium.A community aquarium is a perfect fit for this tank size. Here you can create a beautiful community of a variety of fish, plants, and decorations.
- Fish to be kept in a community tank: 6 Cherry Barbs, 1 Pearl Gourami, Bristlenose Pleco
- Fish to be kept in a species only tank: Scarlet Badis fish and others.
- You can also create a Paludarium – it is a half aquarium, half terrarium that combines both terrestrial and aquatic plants or animals.
Check out the list of fish species that you can put in a 30-gallon aquarium tank-
- Cichlids(Dwarf, South African, and South American)
- Tetras
- Catfish species(Corys, Plecos, Otos)
- Rainbowfish
- Guppies
- Gouramis
- Rasboras
- Mollies
- Angelfish
- Platies
Other creatures like shrimps, crabs, and snails could also be kept in the fish tank.
Fish species should be chosen carefully as aggressive species put together could kill one another.
Therefore, you can keep small and peaceful fish. Semi-aggressive fish species are also a go-for in 30-gallon tank. STEP 6: FISH TANK MAINTENANCE TIPS
Even though it is the end – you have successfully set up the tank, added water and fish into it, your responsibility doesn’t end here.
Tank maintenance is as important as any other steps. You must keep a vigilant eye on the behavior of your fish, if it is showing any disturbing signs.That would tell you a lot and helps you maintain the tank for longer time without any issues.
Clean the tank, cycle it, and feed the fish at regular intervals. Spend some quality time with your water buddies. If you have any questions regarding our buying guide, set up or maintenance, contact us.
FAQs
What is the typical size of a 30-gallon tank?
The typical size of a 30-gallon tank is 36 ¼* 12 ⅝* 16 ¾
Can I put Rasboras or Gouramis in a 30-gallon aquarium?
Yes you can; since the size of the aquarium is big enough to house the above-mentioned species.
What is the weight of the fish tank in general?
The typical weight of a 30 gallon fish tank weighs 43 lbs when empty and can go up to 343 lbs when filled with water.
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