A healthy aquarium isn't the result of occasional big clean-ups; it's the product of small, consistent habits. This simple checklist breaks maintenance into daily, weekly, and monthly tasks so nothing slips and your tank stays stable all year round.
Daily Tasks (2 Minutes)
- Feed your fish only what they finish in about two minutes
- Do a quick head-count and watch for unusual behaviour or signs of illness
- Check the temperature on your thermometer
- Confirm the filter and heater are running normally
- Remove any obvious uneaten food or debris
💡 Pro tip: Feeding time is the best moment to health-check your fish. Active, eager feeders are usually healthy; a fish that ignores food is often the first sign of a problem.
Weekly Tasks (20–30 Minutes)
- Change 20–30% of the water with dechlorinated, temperature-matched water
- Vacuum the substrate surface to remove waste
- Wipe algae off the front glass
- Test your water (ammonia, nitrite, nitrate, pH), especially in newer tanks
- Trim dead or dying plant leaves
- Top up evaporated water (with dechlorinated water)
Monthly Tasks (30–45 Minutes)
- Rinse mechanical filter media in old tank water, never under the tap
- Replace exhausted filter floss or carbon if used
- Inspect the heater, filter, lights, and tubing for wear
- Check and clean the filter impeller if flow has dropped
- Review your stocking and feeding habits
Every Few Months
- Deep-check equipment and replace anything worn
- Replace airstones and worn tubing
- Calibrate or replace test kits past their expiry date
- Review your overall setup and plan any upgrades
The One Rule That Ties It Together
Consistency beats intensity. A 20% water change every week does far more for your fish than a massive clean once a month. Build these habits into your routine and aquarium keeping becomes easy, predictable, and genuinely relaxing.
Find test kits, gravel vacuums, filter media, and water conditioners in our Aquatics range.
