How to Maintain Salt Water Aquariums

Basic Tools for Cleaning your Salt Water Tank

Maintaining a salt water nano aquarium is key to healthy fish and corals. When set up properly, most aquariums will require only regular routine maintenance. A maintenance routine consists of cleaning the glass, water changes, adding in chemicals and testing the water. Staying dedicated to these steps will save you a lot of headache and frustration down the road.

Things You'll Need

• Salt water test kit
• Sponge for cleaning algae off glass
• Salt water/reverse osmosis water and a bag of sea salt mix.
• Large bowl (for rinsing off your cleaning supplies and filter media)

Instructions

1. Test your water parameters using your testing kit. This is the most effective way to make sure your tank is healthy. For most reef tanks these are the parameters you are looking for:
   Specific Gravity 1.023 -1.025
   Temperature 72 -78°F
   pH 8.1-8.4
   Alkalinity 8-12 dKH
   Ammonia (NH3) Undetectable
   Nitrite (NO2) Undetectable

2. Clean the glass using your sponge. Even though you might not see it, algae will form on your glass. Give the glass a good rub down to prevent excess build up. Harder to reach areas of your tank might require that you use a sponge with a handle.

3. Fill your bowl or holding container with salt water. Remove the media from the back of your tank and gently rise them off. Use only salt water for this process. Rinsing will remove the grime that has settled on the media without removing the beneficial bacteria that lives within. Once the grime is cleaned away, replace the filters and the media back into the tank.

4. Remove and replace about 2 to 4 gallons of water from your tank for a partial water change about once every two to three weeks. This will ensure the constant supply of minerals and trace elements. Add any supplements to your tank at this time.

5. Clean your equipment after you service your tank. Wash all items and dry them out. You can use fresh water to wash your items. Store all your items in an easy-to-find location so they are ready for next time.

Tips & Warnings

• Use dedicated tank cleaning items only (do not use the same sponge you wash dishes with). Test your water on a regular basis.

• During the cleaning process, pieces of sponge can come loose; check your tank for any foreign objects. Follow all supplement directions; do not overdose your tank.

Resources

• Maintaining a Saltwater Fish Aquarium