Simple Guide To Set-up And Maintain A 5-Gallon Aquarium
Are you a fish enthusiast?
Do you relish in recreating the scenic underwater world at your home?
If the answer to the above questions is Yes, then check out our fantastic guide to better understand your 5 gallon fish tank, how to set it up correctly and some important tips to maintain it in the future.
A 5-gallon aquarium is a very small-sized tank with limited space for fish and decorations to keep.
If you are new to this job and do not possess any knowledge about the know-hows of aquarium world, then you may need some serious help regarding the whole ensemble and set-up process. Moreover, most of the 5 gallon fish tanks comes with a beginner’s kit which contains all the apparatus or equipment necessary.
So let’s get started with the procedure of setting up a 5 gallon aquarium.
STEP 1: CHOOSE AN AQUARIUM TANK
Firstly, you will need a 5 gallon tank.
The fundamentals of creating a good aquarium is choosing the right tank. Your choice depends upon a lot of factors including space, fish species, maintenance, and so on. So the first step is to choose the right aquarium.
Here I have listed 5 of the best 5-gallon fish tanks available in the market.
MARINELAND ML90609 PORTRAIT AQUARIUM KIT- BEAUTIFUL DESIGN
- SLEEK DESIGN: Rounded corners and clear glass canopy allow viewing from multiple angles.
- DAYLIGHT/MOONLIGHT LIGHTING: Bright white LEDs create a shimmering sunlight effect; blue LEDs produce a moonlit glow.
- EASY ACCESS: Hinged LED lighting and sliding glass canopy.
- SIZE: 5-gallon aquarium fits Marineland Rite-Size Z Filter Cartridges.
- HIDDEN FILTRATION: Advanced, 3-stage filtration is out of sight, enhancing aquarium viewing.
Last update on 2024-04-26 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
If you want to start with an aquarium with minimal maintenance, then this one’s for you.
This piece is ideal for beginners.
Marineland 5-gallon aquarium has a very stylish shape and design. The size of this mini aquarium is so small that it can even fit in any small space like workplace or living room. Moreover, the three-stage filtration system works phenomenally. It rids off your tank of all the unwanted, harmful substances, fish waste, and impurities that compromise fish health. The LED lights keeps the tank well-lit which looks very cool.
Features:
- Product Dimensions: 11.8*11.6*17 inches
- Three-stage hidden filtration system
- Fits small spaces like your desks
- LED with natural daylight and moonlight settings
- Easy to assemble
- Silent filter
- Back compartment for placing accessories
The product is available on Amazon at a great price.
KOLLER PRODUCTS PANAVIEW 5-GALLON AQUARIUM KIT- COST-EFFECTIVE TANK
- FUN and REWARDING: Are you looking to buy an aquarium for your children? If you are, you are going to want to look at this fish tank. Owning an aquarium can be a really fun and rewarding experience and an ideal way to teach your child the responsibility of pet ownership.
- DAZZLING COLORS: Energy-efficient LED lighting with 7 dazzling color selections to brightly illuminate your fish, choose daylight white, blue, green, amber, aqua, purple, or red.
- COMPLETE FILTRATION: Powerful internal power filter cleans and purifies aquarium water at a flow rate of 45 gallons per hour effectively removing organic pollutants including discolorations, odors, heavy metals, and toxic gases. Uses Koller Products S replacement filter cartridges (AQ10FC-60).
- OPTIMUM VIEWING: Crystal-clear clarity so good that most think it's glass. Made of impact-resistant plastic providing leak-proof assurance, unlike glass tanks glued together with silicone, this one-piece tank puts to rest any worries or concerns about possible leaks.
- TRENDY DESIGN: Unique shape allows viewing from multiple angles anywhere in the room.
Last update on 2024-04-26 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
If you are looking for a fish tank which is easy to assemble, then the Koller panaview 5-gallon aquarium is the right fit for you.
It is affordable and despite its small size, it gives a top-notch performance. As most of the 5-gallon aquariums comes with a special kit, you do not need to do the extra work or require extra tools.
The filtration system of this tank is pretty easy to install and it works great. Though small, the filter as a powerful impeller which keeps all the dirt and impurities at bay.Features:
- Product Dimensions: 14.2*11.5*10 inches
- Energy-efficient LED lighting with 7 colors
- Filter with powerful impeller
- Outer body made in durable plastic
- Easy to set up
- Cost-effective
You can get this product at a very reasonable cost on Amazon.
FLUVAL SPEC V AQUARIUM KIT, 5-GALLON, BLACK- PRE INSTALLED FILTER
- SPEC Series Aquariums: The newly redesigned SPEC series now features an impressive high output 7000K LED, which generates 20% brighter lighting performance for noticeably bolder fish colors and plant growth.
- Tank Construction: SPEC adds style and design to your aquarium set. Constructed with etched glass with high-quality aluminum trim.
- Filtration Capability: SPEC boasts a powerful 3-stage system with oversized mechanical, chemical and biological media for unparalleled water clarity. Includes foam block, activated carbon, and BioMax bio rings.
- Lighting System: The powerful LED lighting system has 37 LED bulbs with a total output of 821 lumens and 7000K color temperature.
- Capacity: 5-gallon tank capacity with a water pump output of 55-80 US Gal/h (210-300 L/h).
Last update on 2024-04-26 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Those who have a very limited experience in fish-keeping will be very satisfied with this piece. The Fluval Spec V Aquarium Kit demands minimal supervision. Its design is compact and looks very cool.
The best part is that the filter comes pre-installed in the tank. However, it in no way hinders the fish from roaming freely inside the tank. The LED illumination is also very beautiful, especially at night. You can easily see all the corners and content of the tank.
In addition to this, the tank material is durable and can withstand multiple bumps without any scratches or leakage.Features:
- Product Dimensions: 6.3*17.2*10.6 inches
- Etched glass tank with aluminium trim
- Powerful 37 LED lighting system
- Filter works silently
- Foam block, activated carbon, BioMax bio rings included
- 3-stage mechanical, chemical, and biological filtration
Get it on Amazon at a reduced price.
MARINA LED AQUARIUM KIT, 5-GALLONS- BEST FOR BEGINNERS
- 5 gallon glass aquarium starter kit
- Comes with everything needed for your first fish tank
- Use our Nutrafin Aqua Plus Water Conditioner to make tap water safe for fish
- Marina's Slim S20 clip-on aquarium filter keeps your water clear and uses quick-change filter cartridges
- Long-lasting, natural daylight effect LED aquarium lighting module is incorporated into the fish tank's canopy
Last update on 2024-04-26 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Every aquarium hobbyist demands a tank which is affordable and reliable. If this is the case with you, then this is an ideal pick for you.
You can learn a lot about fish keeping and aquarium maintenance with this tank. You will be surprised to know that it works better compared to its larger counterparts. The 3-stage filtration is very powerful and efficient.
It does not allow any dust particles, harmful substances, impurities, fish waste, to hamper the smooth working of the tank. Features:
- Product Dimensions: 18.5*10.8*13.3 inches
- All-inclusive starter kit
- Filter with 3-stage filtration
- LED lights with natural daylight effect
- Impressive LED lights over the canopy
- Nutrafin Aqua Plus Water Conditioner to dechlorinate tap water
You can buy this aquarium from Amazon at a low cost.
TETRA CRESCENT ACRYLIC AQUARIUM KIT, 5-GALLONS- DURABLE MATERIAL
- Aquarium KIT Curved-front crescent-shaped aquarium kit is perfect for one goldfish or up to three community tropical fish
- INCLUDES FILTER Includes Tetra Whisper Internal Power Filter to keep your tank clean and provide a healthy environment for pet fish
- HIDDEN LIGHTS Bright-white energy-efficient LED lights are hidden inside the low-profile black cover
- SEAMLESS TANK Offers unobstructed viewing of your underwater environment
- 5 GALLON TANK Small size that’s perfect for a bedroom living room or dorm room (15 inches x 9 inches x 11 inches)
Last update on 2024-04-26 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Those who want to buy a reliable aquarium that does not require a lot of maintenance, should go for the Tetra Crescent Acrylic Aquarium.
This 5 gallon tank is portable and its filtration system which removes all the waste particles from the tank, keeping the water crystal clear at all times.It is adjusted graciously inside the tank covering minimal space and letting the fish float without disturbance.
The lighting effect is magnificent, thanks to the LED lights available with the tank.Features:
- Product Dimensions: 16.6*11.2*13.2 inches
- Powerful chemical and mechanical filters
- Energy-efficient LED lights
- Made of durable acrylic
- Easy to set-up
- Portable
- Filter works quietly
You can purchase this fish tank on Amazon at a reasonable cost.
STEP 2: GET THE RIGHT TANK STAND
You should know that as much as it is important to choose the right aquarium, a tank stand too demands a thorough research.
Without a right stand, a tank would be prone to many mishappenings, especially if you have kids or animals around.An aquarium stand is used to provide a firm, and powerful support to your tank, keeping it at a safe distance from any disturbance.
Moreover, the storage spaces or cabinets available can be used to keep all the fish supplies, equipment, and decorations.If you want to make your own fish tank, check our website for more information on the DIY work.
Amazon Best Seller Aquarium Stands
- Wide Fish Tank Stand: Fish tank stand is suitable for 20-29 gallon fish tanks, including 20-gallon long tanks, with a desktop size of 30.7 inches * 16.5 inches, which can accommodate most standard size fish tanks. However, to ensure a perfect match, we recommend measuring the dimensions of your fish tank before purchasing.
- 2 in 1 Space Design: Stand is designed with two levels for fish tank placement, the desktop can accommodate differently shaped 20-29 gallon fish tanks, and the bottom can also hold small 5-10 gallon fish tanks. This structure raises the height of the fish tank to a more comfortable viewing height while maximizing the use of limited space. It keeps your fish tank storage neat and tidy.
- Sturdy and Stable: Stability is crucial for a fish tank. Therefore, our stand is made of thick steel with powder coating and sturdy MDF board, ensuring a weight capacity of 330 pounds for the desktop and 110 pounds for the bottom, to ensure durability, moisture resistance, and prevent shaking or instability like other products on the market.
- Convenient Storage: Stand features a spacious storage cabinet in the middle, making it easy to store fish food, nets, gravel cleaning agents, and more. The storage cabinet keeps your fish tank area clean and tidy and allows you to access the items you need easily.
- Modern Appearance: Aquarium stand features a modern black design that matches various home decor styles. This design is not only practical but also beautiful, making it the perfect decoration for your home. Tanks not included. Support dimensions: 30.7" x 16.5" x 31.88".
- Suitable for 55-75 gallon fish tanks:Desktop size 52"L*19.68"W, this fish stand fits from 55 gallon tanks up to 75 gallon aquariums. It will fit most standard tanks but due to many different custom models on the market, please measure your tank to ensure a proper fit.
- 2 in 1 Space-saving: Save valuable floor space with our 2-tier stand. A 55-75 gallon fish tank can be placed on the desktop, and the lower shelf can accommodate up to a 20 gallon standard fish tank or even Tetra aquarium 20 gallon long fish tank kit.
- Sturdy & Durable Construction: Stability and strength are critical for an aquarium stand which needs to hold heavy tanks of 55-75 gallons! Most simple thin iron frames are unstable and dangerous. Pure particleboard is not waterproof and will not last long. Six 1.5" thick steel powder coated legs plus strong metal support frame. This fish tank stand is sturdy, durable, and moisture-resistant. No need to worry about wobbling like with many other weak stands.
- Storage: This fish tank stand allows you to conveniently store your fish accessories: fish food, water conditioner,etc. All in a no clutter configuration, easy access, neat & well-organized. We include an extra iron shelf for you to put net or gravel cleaner there for easier access. Shelf in the cabinet is removable. So you can take it away if you want to put canister filter and CO2 hoses in the cabinet.The stand has openings in the back for tubing for the canister filter and CO2 hoses.
- Sleek & Modern Design: Black steel legs with powder-coated finish paired with wood grain cabinet makes this aquarium stand quite modern and easy to match your current furniture decor. Tanks not included.Stand Dimensions:52"L*19.68"W*31.7"H, Stand Holding Capacity:850 LBS for the table top and 250 LBS for the bottom shelf.
- For 55-75 Gallon Aquariums: With desktop size of 52" L * 19.68" W, this fish tank stand is suitable for 55 to 75-gallon aquariums, fitting most standard tank sizes. Please measure your tank before purchasing to ensure proper installation. Our aquarium stand is specifically designed for medium to large aquariums, providing excellent stability and support, ensuring worry-free safety for your fish tank. Say goodbye to worries about your aquarium tilting or wobbling, allowing your fish to enjoy a mo
- Additional Small Aquarium Space: In addition to accommodating 55-75-gallon aquariums, our aquarium stand also provides extra space at the bottom to house small tanks of 10-20 gallons. This means you can cultivate various fish species in the same location, adding more creativity and enjoyment to your aquatic life.
- Convenient storage functionality: first-level compartment on the right side, allowing for easy storage of fish food, nets, disinfectants, water conditioners, and other daily supplies. The cabinets are designed with specific spaces, and removing the compartment allows for accommodating canister filters and CO2 hoses. There is also an opening at the back of the stand. This ensures a tidy and organized environment around your fish tank, making it convenient to access the items you need.
- Strength and stability: Our stand is constructed with high-quality materials, featuring 1.5-inch thick steel pipes and sturdy MDF panels, ensuring a maximum weight capacity of 1200 LBS for the tabletop and 500 LBS for the bottom. The robust structure and stable design guarantee the stability of your fish tank, eliminating concerns about wobbling or insecurity. Your fish tank will remain rock solid, allowing you to enjoy your aquatic world with peace of mind.
- Stylish modern design: Our stand showcases a sleek black modern design that complements various home decor styles. It serves not only as a practical fish tank stand but also as an exquisite home decoration, adding a touch of modern elegance to your living space. Stand dimensions: 52" L*19.68" W*31.88" H TIP: Fish tank not included.
Last update on 2024-04-17 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
STEP 3: PURCHASE OTHER IMPORTANT EQUIPMENT
Apart from the aquarium and the tank stand, the other important equipment required for setting up an aquarium are aquarium heater, filter, and hood.
HEATER
As the fish are very delicate creatures, they require steady temperature at all times; or they will die.
A heater helps in doing that by maintaining a constant water temperature, thus preventing the fish from getting sick or dying. For a 5-gallon fish tank, a less powered heater of 50 Watt will work fine.
Check out the best 5-gallon tank heater –
- Adjustable heat setting 68 to 88°F, Electronic Thermostat accurate to +/- 1°
- Shatterproof and nearly indestructible
- Fully submersible; Auto Shut-Off when over-heats, resets when it cools down
- LED light is always on: red when heating, green when not heating
- Limited Lifetime warranty
Last update on 2024-04-26 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
- Super-flat design. Fully submersible, modern design for energy efficient Aquarium and terrarium heating. Includes reversible holster/bracket, which allows heater to face inward or outward. See the product images to determine the best neo-therm size for your tank.
- Accurate, one-touch system. Simply set temperature between 66-96°f with one touch and the neo-therm electronic thermostat will maintain Tank temperature within +0.5°F. Led displays both set temp and actual temp, simultaneously.
- Ultimate safety and reliability. Integrated thermal protection circuitry prevents heater from overheating. If you forget to turn it off, the neo-therm will automatically shut it down.
- Virtually indestructible. Unlike cheap, glass heaters, the neo-therm is a resin/thermoplastic heater with a shatterproof outer-casing. Made in Poland and includes a 3-year warranty.
- Manufacturer You can trust. Most manufacturers rate their heaters on the ability to raise an aquarium 2-3°f above ambient temperatures. This is unreliable and misleading, as the average home fluctuates 2-3°f or more throughout the day. Cobalt rates The neo-therm on the ability to raise a tank 11°f above ambient temperatures, so you will never have to worry about overworking the neo-therm or it keeping up!
Last update on 2024-04-26 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
- Fully submersible
- Thermo safey control protects against running dry
- Will automatically turn off when water level dips too low
- TruTemp dial recalibrates the heater for precise temperature regulation
- Made of shock resistant and shatter proof glass for fresh or marine water
Last update on 2024-04-26 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
- FREESEA Aquarium Heater: 50w betta fish heater, voltage: 110~120V, is suitable for use in 1-10 gal betta fish turtle tanks and aquariums. The power cord is 5ft, long enough for indoor use
- Double Safety Protection: When the top part of the turtle tank heater is out of water it will auto shut off. When the actual water temperature is higher than 94°F, it will auto activate the overheating protection and stop heating
- External Controller: The betta fish heater is adjusted by an external controller, which you can mount on the outside edge of the tank. It’s convenient to adjust temperature that range from 63℉ to 94℉
- LED Temperature Display: Digital led temperature display shows the real-time temperature and error code on the screen. When the mini aquarium heater is heating, there indicator light above the digit is on red
- 12-month Warranty: We are committed to providing high quality products and better service with a 12-month warranty. If you have any questions about the turtle heater you receive, please feel free to contact us
Last update on 2024-04-26 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
FILTER
It is very important to maintain clean water in the aquarium for a healthy fish life. A tank filter does all the work for you by removing the contaminants from the water and purifying it simultaneously.
A 5-gallon fish tank does not require a big filter. Some kits already have incorporated filters into the aquarium, while with others you need to buy one separately.Here are my top 4 picks in the 5-gallon aquarium filters –
- FOR 4 GALLON aquariums: This Whisper Internal Power Filter uses small filter cartridges and adjusts easily to high or low water levels.
- 27 GPH PUMP: The internal 27 GPH pump cycles a 4 gallon aquarium more than 6 times per hour.
- TWO FILTERS IN ONE: Cartridge floss catches debris and fish waste, while Ultra-Activated carbon removes odors and discoloration.
- SPACE-SAVING DESIGN: Your aquarium can be flush to the wall with the internal filter designed to clip on your tank wall and be hidden by décor.
- EVERYTHING YOU NEED IS INCLUDED: This pack contains the hinged lid, tank clip, internal filter and filter cartridge.
Last update on 2024-04-25 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
- Aquarium filtration system that offers superior contact time with filter media and energy efficient pump lowers operating costs
- Quick and easy installation; we recommend that you clean aquarium filter every 2 weeks for maximum operation and efficiency
- Provides optimal mechanical; chemical; and biological filtration
- Comes equipped with AquaClear Foam; Activated Carbon Filter and BioMax and Cycle Guard for superior water quality
- Filtration volume is up to 7 times larger than comparable fish tank filters
Last update on 2024-04-26 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Last update on 2024-04-26 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
- Efficiently cleans and filters water
- Easy to install using suction cups and/or hanging clips
- Auto-start pump requires no priming, automatically restarts if power is interrupted and restored
- On average, change filter cartridge every 4 weeks
- Carbon Cartridge included for chemical filtration; removes odors and discoloration from water
Last update on 2024-04-25 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
HOOD
Complete vigilance on your part at all time is kind of impossible, therefore, you need something to prevent the fish from jumping off the aquarium. A hood does the exact thing for you.
It also reduces the amount of water that evaporates from the tank as it seals it completely, except the filter and heater section. If you are using a mini-sized aquarium of 5 gallons, use one of these hoods to seal your tank from the top-
- AQUARIUM HOOD WITH LEDS: Low-profile hood houses white LED lights that create a natural underwater shimmer effect.
- ENERGY EFFICIENT: Built-in LEDs – no bulbs to replace.
- FILTER COMPATIBLE: Cutouts in the back of the hood can accommodate a variety of filters.
- RANGE OF SIZES: Tetra LED Hoods are available in multiple sizes to accommodate most rectangular tanks.
- SIZE: This hood measures 16 inches wide by 8 inches deep.
Last update on 2024-04-26 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
- Standard glass canopy set
- Comes with a clear "cut-to-fit" back splash, hinge and clear lid handle, allowing maximum illumination of the aquarium
- Measures 16-inch length by 8-inch width
Last update on 2024-04-26 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
- aquarium HOOD WITH LEDS: Low-profile, hinged hood houses white LED lights that create a natural underwater shimmer effect.
- ENERGY EFFICIENT: Built-in LEDs – no bulbs to replace.
- FILTER COMPATIBLE: Cutouts in the back of the hood can accommodate a variety of filters.
- RANGE OF SIZES: Tetra LED Hoods are available in multiple sizes to accommodate most rectangular tanks.
- SIZE: Measures 24 inches wide by 12 inches deep.
Last update on 2024-04-26 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
STEP 4: ADD WATER TO THE TANK
Adding water to the tank doesn’t mean that you add it directly to the tank. You need to keep a lot of things in mind before pouring the water.
The first step is to clean the tank. Do not use soap, shampoo or other harsh materials to clean it as it might kill the fish.The next thing to be careful about is to dechlorinate the water as tap water may contain chlorine which could be harmful for the fish.
Keep in mind to maintain a recommended pH level.
Even after following the above steps, you need to add the water in portions.To learn more about the water addition process, check out our other article dedicated to the 5-gallon tank set-up process on our website.
STEP 5: INTRODUCE FISH AND OTHER CREATURES
Just like the addition of water demands a lot of care, the introduction of fish to the water too requires special attention.
You cannot be too reckless about adding the fish as even the subtlest of changes in the surrounding environment may kill it. To learn more about adding fish and other creatures into the tank, check our website.
A 5-gallon fish tank may be small, but you can still add a variety of fish to it without any problem. Here are some fish species which you can buy-
Fish combinations recommended for a 5-gallon tank-
- 1 Betta Fish, 1 Amano Shrimp, 1 Nerite Snail
- 2 Kill Fish
- A bunch of Micro Rasboras
For snail tank or shrimp tank-
- 10 Cherry Shrimps
- 5 Nerite Snails
You can keep multiple:
- Tetras,
- Rasboras, and
- Betta Fish in the fish tank as they all are small-sized species.
Fish species which you can easily keep in a 5 gallon fish tank are:
- Betta Fish, White Cloud Mountain Minnow, Honey Gourami, various Micro Rasboras, Dwarf Puffer, Dwarf Frog, Clown KillFish, Least KillFish, Dwarf Crayfish, Endler’s Livebearer, Rosy Loach, Cherry Red Shrimp, Ghost Shrimp, Crystal Red Shrimp, and Nerite Snail.
STEP 6: MAINTENANCE PROCEDURE
Last but not the least is the proper maintenance of the tank. It is not a very difficult task to maintain a small 5-gallon fish tank.
Thanks to its micro size, the maintenance time and procedure is comparatively very less complicated. The important things to keep in mind are to feed the fish regularly, check that all the equipment are working properly, follow the changing behavioral patterns of the fish and take action as soon as you detect any negative changes, clean the tank at regular intervals, cycle it to continue the growth of good bacteria for fish nourishment, etc.
Let me know which fish tank you purchased and what kind of marine animals have you kept or are thinking of keeping in you 5 gallon aquarium.Apart from that, if you want any other help, just reach me on the website. I will assist you immediately.
FAQs
What is the typical size of a 5-gallon fish tank?
The typical size of a 5-gallon aquarium tank is 16 X 8 X 10 inches.
Can I keep gecko in my Koller Panaview 5-Gallon Aquarium?
No. A gecko requires a size of at least 10- gallons. A 5-gallon aquarium size will be too small for creatures like gecko.
Will a marine fish be adequate for my Marineland ML90609 Portrait Aquarium, 5-Gallons?
Yes, you can keep marine fish in the fish tank as it does not require a protein skimmer.
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My son has a 5 gallon tank with a male betta, 4 neon tetras, 2 rocks, 2 fake plans s and 1 real plant. We vaccumed the gravel a week ago and changed 50% of the water. It’s so cloudy, has algae, and only 7 days later. Can I get some shrimp to help with algae? I’m afraid that’s too much for the tank. This 5 gallon has required so much maintenance that I’m considering going up to a 10 gallon. But will that size be easier to maintain?
Thank you,
Sarah Walker