A three-step guide to regular tank maintenance

A beautiful aquarium full of lively fish requires regular upkeep. Thankfully, maintaining your aquarium involves only three simple steps and will take you a mere 30 minutes every two weeks.

1. Test the water
You’ll have to make sure the water is suitable for the type of fish you keep. If the temperature and pH balance of the water aren’t ideal, or toxic substances like ammonia, nitrite, nitrate and chlorine are present, the health of your fish can be at risk. Pet shops sell water-testing kits that are used to make sure the water chemistry is perfect for your tank.

2. Clean the aquarium
Remove fish waste and uneaten food that’s settled to the bottom of the tank using a special siphon meant to vacuum the tank’s gravel. Then check the filter (replacing the cartridge if necessary) and wash the walls and decorative items.

3. Change the water
When you vacuum the bottom of the tank, some of the water will come out too. Replacing the water not only tops up your tank, it also helps keep the water chemistry stable. Use tap water that’s been pre-treated with conditioning products available at your local pet store.

Tank maintenance is easy and enables your fish to lead healthy and happy lives.