Quick and easy steps to safely fill your new aquarium with water.

Difficulty Level: average      Time Required: 45 minutes

1. Purchase a bottle of aquarium water conditioner.
2. Purchase two buckets and label for aquarium use only. Aquarium buckets should never have soap in them.
3. Fill the bottom of the tank with washed gravel to a depth of 3 inches.
4. Lay a clean plate on top of the gravel.
5. Let the cold water run for a few minutes to flush any minerals or residue from the lines.
6. Fill a clean bucket approximately two thirds to three fourths full with water.
7. Slowly pour the water from the bucket onto the plate in the aquarium.
8. Repeat steps six and seven until the tank is half filled with water.
9. Add plants and other decorations.
10. Install the heater and filter, but do not plug them into the outlet.
11. Repeat steps six and seven until the aquarium is completely filled with water.
12. Remove the plate and add water conditioner according to package instructions.
13. Start the filter and heater, and let the aquarium run for at least twenty four hours before adding fish.
    

1. Old buckets may be used if they are thoroughly cleaned with bleach, rinsed well, and allowed to air dry.
2. Fill your buckets only as full as you can comfortably carry and pour them.
   

Related Features:

• Water Testing
• Cloudy Water