If you have purchased an aquarium complete set, this automatically comes with all the equipment you need for your tank. If you do not have a complete set, read on to find out about the minimum equipment you need: a filter, heater and air pump. You should also consult your specialist retailer for advice.
One important thing to note is that you should always install the technical equipment in your aquarium before adding any plants and other decorative items. When conducting care activities like partial water changes make sure that you switch off the technical equipment first!
Heater
Most aquarium fish and aquatic plants come from the tropics or subtropics and need a water temperature of 22 – 28°C.
The stick heater should ideally be placed near the filter diffuser to enable an almost consistent temperature throughout the aquarium. It must never be embedded into the substrate!
The water temperature must be constantly monitored, e.g. using a digital thermometer or strips that can be attached to the glass.
Aeration
An air pump supplies the aquarium with air and therefore with vital oxygen for all the living organisms in the water. This is particularly important at night when plants consume oxygen instead of producing it, or if the aquarium does not contain any natural plants due to the stock of fish. It is also advisable to use the air pump in the event of emergency situations where there is a lack of oxygen or when treating the fish with medication.
An air pump can also be used to operate decorative items that are suitable for an aquarium. Whether a treasure chest or a shipwreck with slowly rising air bubbles, these kinds of accessories can make the underwater world even more exciting, especially for children.
HT heaters keep aquariums at the perfect temperature
The TH Digital is a simple and reliable means of measuring the water temperature in your aquarium
Tetra APS aquarium air pumps are quiet yet extremely powerful
Filter
A differentiation is made between mechanical filtration using foam and floss for clear water, biological filtration by bacteria and chemical filtration, e.g. using active carbon. The filter is the heart of an aquarium and an essential item! The water movement caused by the filter furthermore enriches the water with oxygen.
Filters come in two possible versions: internal and external filters. Smaller aquariums are usually equipped with an internal filter, whereas larger ones are equipped with an external filter.
Alternatively, you can choose to use an air-operated foam filter, which works using an air pump. This is particularly recommended for breeding tanks and aquariums with a low level of water flow.
Source: Tetra
