04 Where To Get Your Equipment
Description
This article is from the Beginning Fishkeeping FAQ, by Thomas Narten with numerous contributions by others.
04 Where To Get Your Equipment
All fish stores sell tank setups containing ``everything you need''
for one price. However, a smart shopper looks carefully at what the
package contains to be sure it includes only what you need (and
doesn't include things you don't). Packages vary from store to store,
some are more appropriate than others. Be especially wary of setups
bought at discount stores (e.g., ``Hartz'' brand). They often include
obsolete technology, noisy pumps, cheap heaters, etc.
Garage sales are a great way to get into the hobby cheaply. However, a
few cautions are in order. Before buying the tank, examine it closely
for cracks or scratches. Although cracks can be fixed, doing so is
more hassle (for a beginner) than it is worth. Don't buy a scratched
tank; algae will grow in the scratches making the tank look bad. Be
wary of really old equipment. It may no longer work well.
Before setting up the tank (especially if the tank is used), check it
for leaks. Fill it with water outside and leave it for a week. A leak
on your carport is a lot less of a problem than one in your living
room.
To clean the tank, NEVER use soaps or detergents. Use water and
nothing else. If you want to sterilize the tank, gravel, etc. wash
everything plastic in a mild bleach solution (use pure bleach, not one
with other additives). Rinse everything well in clean water, and let
everything soak a bit in a solution with a bit of added dechlorinator.
(Non-plastic) gravel can be sterilized through boiling.
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