DIY Network

Setting Up the Aquarium From "Weekend Remodeling" episode WKR-303

The finished aquarium and matching recessed bookshelf.

With the openings trimmed out and the surrounding surfaces finished, it's time to get the aquarium installed and in working order.

On a scale of 1-5, with 5 being most difficult, this project rates a 2.

Materials:

2 x 4, 2 x 2 and 1 x stock
Drywall
Drywall tape
Joint compound
Joint compound knife
Drywall screws
Drywall saw
Router
Interior trim
Caulk
Paint, paint brush and roller
Aquarium, pump and filter
Aerator and hose
Biscuit joiner
Clamps
Table saw
Spiral cut saw
Speed square
Chalk line
4" toggle bolts
Tape measure
Level
Reciprocating saw
Hammer
Utility knife
Circular saw
Miter saw
Drill
Framing square
Framing nailer
Trim nailer
Bucket

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	Figure A
	Figure B
	Figure C
	Figure D
	Figure E
	Figure F
	Figure G

1. To store supplies, Reveiz attaches "L" brackets to the 1 x 4 cut to go above the tank. Two screws are then attached to the bottom of the shelf so that a 6-outlet power strip can be attached (figure A).

2. To set up this particular tank, Reveiz attaches an air wall tube on the lowest point on the back glass and attaches the air hose from the pump (figure B).

3. Coated aquarium gravel is added to the bottom of the tank (figure C). The air wall tube and hose are covered.

4. Add plastic plants, then add the submersible heater to the side of the glass (figure D). Position and secure with the attached suction cups.

5. Next, add the external box filter (figure E).

6. Set the tank into the wall opening, add the glass canopy and set the aquarium light atop the tank (figure F). Plug the light in to test.

7. Fill the tank with water that's been mixed to about 75-degrees Fahrenheit.

8. Once the tank is full, add the board to hide the band at the top of the tank.

9. Add the necessary chemicals to the water: a good dose of bacteria, followed by de-chlorination.

10. Prime the pump with some water from the tank. Plug in the heater and the air pump, and re-hang the doors (figure G).

Tips for adding fish:

• Float the fish -- still in bags from the store -- in the tanks. Open the bags and use clothespins to hold the bags to the edge of the tank to prevent the water and fish from spilling out.

• Wait about 20 minutes to allow the bag and tank temperatures to equalize.

• To acclimate the fish to the tank water, add a bit of tank water to each bag.

• After ten minutes, add more water. Then wait and do a third time.

• Pour most of the water from the bags into a bowl, then gently release the fish and remaining water into the tank.