You many also find aquarium set-ups for great prices at yard sales or through classified ads. To cut down on fluctuations in temperature, a location away from direct sunlight or room heating device is best. All materials utilized when starting will need to be cleaned and rinsed of any detergents. This includes the tank, gravel and other substrate, rocks, plastic plants and ornaments. The lighting cycle and water temperature are very important when trying to maintain a natural environment in an aquarium.
Timers can be very useful, especially on weekends and vacations.
Also, since most schools lower the room temperature when closed, a heater with an adjustable thermostat is necessary. A battery-operated or electric fish feeder is helpful to keep fish properly fed on weekends and holidays. A filtration device, internal or external, will remove ammonia and particles of debris from the tank, keeping the environment healthy and reducing the likelihood of disease. When acquiring your fish from a pet store, only purchase ones which appear healthy, from tanks in which there are no signs of sickness. The fish should be transported as quickly as possible with minimum temperature change.