Aquarium Hobby for Beginners Part 1: What to Do BEFORE Buying a Fish Tank!

Before purchasing your first aquarium, there are several important factors to consider. If you are new to the fish-keeping hobby, you’re in the right place! This will be a multi-part series.

For additional guidance, For more guidance, check out The Beginner’s Guide to the Aquarium, which we’ve linked at the end of this post. – it’s packed with helpful insights. We appreciate you being here and hope you enjoy the blog!

Excitement and Experience in the Hobby

The aquarium hobby can be incredibly exciting! In my own fish room, we maintain 70 to 80 tanks depending on the current project. I have been fishing for 21 years.

I also hold a Masters Degree in Biotechnology and Chemical Sciences and a Post Graduate Certificate in Aquaculture and Fish Health.

Through this series, I hope to use my experience to help you avoid common mistakes made by new fish keepers.

• Aquarium Hobby (Part 2)
• Porcupine Puffer Fish Care
• Betta Fish Care Guide
• Aquarium Filter

Key Considerations Before Buying an Aquarium

1. How Much Time Do You Have?

Some people think that maintaining an aquarium is easier than taking care of pets like dogs, cats or guinea pigs.

The fact that regular maintenance is required – usually on a weekly basis. The size of the tank determines how much time you need.

Ask yourself: How much time do I have each week to maintain my fish tank?

• A single fish tank may require 15 minutes to an hour per week for maintenance.
• The larger the tank, the more time-consuming the upkeep can be.

2. Your Dedication and Interest Level

Be honest with yourself.

Are you the type of person who gets really into something and then loses interest after six months?

This question is important because it helps determine:

• How much money you should invest in the hobby.
• How large a tank you should buy when starting out.

This is especially important if your kids convince you to get an aquarium.

Some kids are excited about the fish tank at first, promising to feed the fish, clean the tank, and even do extra chores. But after a month or two, the onus is entirely on you.

3. How Much Space Do You Have?

The available space will determine the size of your tank.

Ask yourself:

• Do you have a large, open area or sturdy furniture?
• Are you looking for something small to place on a desk?

Larger tanks require dedicated space, while smaller tanks can sit on desks or sturdy furniture.

4. The Most Important Factor – The Fish You Want to Keep

The fish species you choose will ultimately determine the size of the tank.

Do your research before buying the tank!

Ways to research fish species:

1. Visit your local fish stores (or large retailers like PetSmart or Petco).
2. Observe which fish interest you the most.
3. Search online for details about their care, compatibility, and long-term size requirements.

We also have species profile blogs on our website to help you.

Choosing the Right Tank Size

Recommended Tank Sizes for Beginners

While some may assume that bigger is always better, it’s often wiser to start with a smaller tank if you’re unsure of your long-term commitment.

A larger tank helps maintain stable water parameters, but a smaller tank is more affordable and requires less space.

Tip: A 10-gallon tank is a great beginner size because it offers more stocking options while remaining manageable.

Cost Considerations for Fish Tank Kits

If you purchase a fish tank kit, it typically includes essential equipment (excluding decorations and fish).

Estimated Cost of a Basic Aquarium Setup

These prices assume everything is new and include decorations and a few fish.

Where to Place Your Fish Tank

1. Choose a Sturdy Stand or Furniture

• Small tanks (5–10 gallons) can be placed on sturdy furniture.
• Larger tanks (20 gallons and above) require a dedicated stand.

2. Avoid Windows and Doors

Why?

• Cold air from windows in winter can make it difficult to maintain stable water temperatures.
• Direct sunlight can cause excessive algae growth.

3. Choose a Spot Where You Can Enjoy It

• If you place the tank in a basement or a hidden corner, you may not enjoy it as much.
• Consider areas where you spend time relaxing or working.

4. Think About Flooring and Safety

• Placing tanks on carpet can lead to instability, particularly with narrower tanks like a 20-gallon or 55-gallon.
• If you have small children, avoid tanks in areas where they might climb or tip them over.
• Ensure the surface is level to prevent structural stress.

Proximity to a Water Source

Water changes are necessary for tank maintenance.

Tip: Place your tank close to a water source (sink, bathroom, or utility room) to make water changes easier.

If your tank is far from a sink, you’ll have to carry buckets of water, which can be inconvenient.

Final Advice for Beginners

1. Do your research!
   • Learn about fish species, water parameters, and the nitrogen cycle.
2. Plan before purchasing!
   • Consider space, time commitment, and cost.

Conclusion

Setting up an aquarium is an exciting journey, but planning ahead will save you time, money and frustration.

In Part 2, we’ll guide you through the steps to properly set up your new aquarium.

Stay tuned for the next part in this blog!