How to Set Up a Freshwater Aquarium | Big Al's

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Have you always wanted to set up a basic freshwater aquarium, but you just aren't sure how? Your days of uncertainty are over-- our resident Fish Geek, Thomas, guides you through the fun process!

If you have any questions, ask us in the comments below!

Product Links:
HARDWARE:

DECORATIONS:

AIR PUMP & ACCESSORIES TO CREATE BUBBLES:

***DISCLAIMER: The purpose and content of this video is to provide general information regarding the animals, the products and their applications as presented in the video. Big Al's Aquarium Services, Big Al's Aquarium Supercentres and its officers, directors, employees and agents disclaim all express or implied warranties, in any way, related to the products and their application as presented in this video, make no representation or warranty regarding the products and the application as presented in this video and shall not be liable for any direct or indirect losses or damages of any type, including but not limited to punitive damages, or from personal injury or death resulting from or in any manner related to the video, and the products in and contents of the video. The viewer expressly agrees that Big Al's Aquarium Services and Big Al's Aquarium Supercentres and its officers, directors, employees and agents shall not be liable for any damages or losses related to the products in and content of the video and hereby agrees to hold the foregoing harmless from any such losses or damages.

[joshisboss]

Some info on fish on YouTube is really boring because the way people talk and I usually turn the videos off... But you just make me want to watch more!! Great info and don't get boring you made it sound fun :) thanks

[fahdkhan]

When are we gonna add the fish.... Not right now! i laughed so hard!

[nosferatu]

I really liked how friendly and informative this video is for beginners.

This is a good starting point for life-long hobbyists to be.

[falacer]

This was so straight forward and much easier to follow than others I have watched. Thank you! The one big step I missed and was never told until I started doing more research is the wait before you add the fish. My daughters picked out some nice neon tetras which died within hours because I didn't know about the waiting part.

[ayahnagonzales]

You should actually wait 5-8 weeks before putting any fish in the tank and that is after you’ve tested the ph, nitrite, nitrate, and ammonia levels in the tank

[Stella-kexb]

I have that aquarium set! I like it because it came with a lot of helpful things. But I highly suggest not getting that filter. It's very loud and barely works. I like the Aquaclear brand filters. :)

[ItzStarryyyy]

I always love fish tanks for decoration! Getting one tomorrow. I can’t express how much I enjoy seeing the fish live in a world I created for them! Seeing the little creatures venture around in the foliage and decorations I put there is an amazing experience. I have helped decorate a couple of different tanks, but I can’t wait to personalize my own little fish world!

[keith]

for attaching aquarium backgrounds rubbing a thin layer of petroleum jelly on the outside of the tank can help non-permanently adhere the background to the tank clearly without having to buy a specialty product.

[jessicalovesglitter]

You kind of remind me of the pirate from spongebob? Lol not meant to be a rude comment I swear!

[reneemarie]

Thank u! I'm new to the fish world and this was helpful

[heatherc]

This shows the components of a tank well, but there's no way the tank is ready for fish after 24 hours. This video should link to a basic "how to cycle your tank" video.

[amara]

I've been watching lots of Youtube videos in preparation of possible fish keeping. And you are the first one to suggest checking if the stand is level. Thanks a lot for adding to my knowledge. You have a new subscriber!

[auroralampron]

My dad used to work at Big Al's, and that is the exact 20 gal that I have! First video luck XD Its a nice tank, but I am switching it when I upgrade to my 55 so I can use it for feeder fish

[killenutub]

I can't believe you didn't mention to do a full fishless cycle....wow

[JohnAranita]

I like to put the air stone in the aquarium before the substrate.  I love the air stone that is along the background for a nice effect.  I like the Marineland  bio-wheel power filter because it is  better engineered than most other filters.  However, I like live plants, even though it requires more maintenance.

[Anemogoddess.]

Big Al’s is my favourite pet store because I bought my turtle and my gecko from there and they give you the most and best advice so listen carefully it’s worth it!

[teijah]

Thank you so much for this video <3 Really appreciate how FAST yet informal this was! You are saving fish lives and emotional scarring of sudden fish death for children everywhere ^_^

[fishmansf]

My parents are making me wait to weeks but we set up the tank last week and were going to test the water if it is safe for fish and if so we will get fish

[noelelenes]

Best fish tank tutorial ever. Every one I’ve seen take hours getting to the point lol

[emcollins]

Watched a TON of beginner pet videos today with my 5 year old son. While a lot of the hosts were experts and clearly passionate about their respective creatures, this guy was the best! Video (production) was really well done. We're off to get some fish!