1. By: Kristen McKnabb

2. Step 1: Aquarium and Aquarium materials Wash the aquarium gravel, rocks, and other decorations. Do not use soap or detergents they are highly toxic to fish. To wash the gravel put in a colander over a plastic pan or bucket and add water. Stir the gravel with the water and drain it.

3. Step 2: Adding Water Fill the aquarium approximately one-third full with room temp. water from a clean bucket. Always add AquaSafe (one teaspoon per 10 gallons of water).

4. Step 3: Connecting Air Lines Connect the air line tubing from the air pump to any air outlets located inside the aquarium, such as air stones or decorations. By using a CheckValve, you can safely locate your air pump underneath your aquarium.

5. Step 4: Decorations and Plants Aquascape your aquarium with live and/or plastic plants, rocks, and ornaments. These should be arranged in such a way that the equipment will be concealed or at least will not detract from the appearance of the aquarium. If you are adding live plants, make sure that the water is warm enough for them.

6. Step 5: Add Balance of Water Fill the aquarium to the near top and leave some air space between the water and the cover.

7. Step 6: Filter, Heater, Thermometer, and starting your aquarium equipment f you are using any outside filters, fill them with filter materials or filter cartridge. Position them according to instructions and make certain their siphon is free of air. Be sure to open the filter lid and fill the filter with water in order to “prime” the pump. Secure the heater as directed and place the thermometer as far away from the heater as possible. Plug in your air pump, power filter and heater. Check the air outlets and adjust the settings. Adjust the thermostatic heater to the proper temperature, checking periodically. It will take some time for the temperature to stabilize and you may have to adjust your setting. Important: Do not switch on the heater when it is not immersed in water in the tank. The heating element can malfunction and overheat and the glass tube can shatter if placed in water while hot.

8. Step 7: Adding the fish Immediately float the bags in your aquarium for 15 minutes. DO NOT pour the water from the bag into your aquarium. Also, be sure to add SafeStart® before you add fish to your aquarium