How to Install a 180-Gallon Saltwater Aquarium Professionally

A 180-gallon saltwater fish tank can house a wide variety of saltwater corals, anemones, fish and plants. It will take anywhere from four to eight hours to set up. More complex filters and pumps will increase the time it takes to set up the aquarium.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Filtration system
• Water
• Ocean salt
• Hydrometer
• Live rock
• Live sand
• Synthetic corals
• Silk plants
• Water heater
• Water conditioner
• Lighting system
• Starter fish

1. Install the filtration system. A wet-dry filter and sump system are best for this size tank.

2. Add water and ocean salt to the tank according to the manufacturer's directions. Fill the tank 2/3 of the way to leave room for the live sand and decorations. Check the specific gravity using a hydrometer.

3. Position live rock onto the bottom of the aquarium. Live rock serves as a secondary filtration system for your saltwater aquarium.

4. Pour live sand around the live rock to cover the bottom of the tank and anchor the live rock in place.

5. Arrange synthetic corals and silk plants in the tank to create a natural look.

6. Fill the tank the rest of the way with water and add a water heater if necessary. Add water conditioner. Check the specific gravity using a hydrometer. Add more salt if necessary.

7. Place lighting system onto the tank lid. Plug in all electrical accessories and prime the pumps and filters according to the manufacturer's instructions. Add starter fish.

Tips & Warnings

• Because of its weight, place a 180-gallon saltwater aquarium on a level surface that is sturdy enough to support extreme weight. Remember that one gallon of saltwater weighs ten pounds.
• Never place your saltwater aquarium in an area that has drafts or direct sunlight.