Aquarium Setup & Installation

Professional Aquarium Setup & Installation

Starting a new aquarium is exciting, but it can also be overwhelming with so many decisions about equipment, cycling, and stocking. Our professional aquarium setup and installation service takes the stress and guesswork out of the process, ensuring your new tank is set up correctly from day one.

Whether you're dreaming of a peaceful planted aquarium, a vibrant reef tank, or a community freshwater setup, we provide complete turnkey installation. From initial consultation through cycling, stocking, and training, we handle every detail so you can enjoy a thriving aquarium without the common beginner mistakes that lead to fish losses and frustration.

With over 20 years of experience setting up aquariums of all types and sizes, we've perfected the process. We know which equipment works best, how to properly cycle tanks, and how to choose compatible livestock. Our goal is to deliver a beautiful, healthy aquarium and give you the knowledge to maintain it successfully.

Setup Service Options

Freshwater Setup

Complete setup for community, planted, or specialty freshwater aquariums.

Tank placement
Equipment installation
Cycling process
Initial stocking
Timeline: 2-6 weeks
$200-$800

Saltwater/Reef Setup

Professional installation of marine fish-only or reef aquarium systems.

Live rock aquascaping
Reef equipment setup
Water chemistry
Coral placement
Timeline: 4-8 weeks
$500-$2,500

Planted Tank Setup

Specialized setup for high-tech planted aquariums with CO2 and advanced lighting.

Substrate layering
CO2 system setup
Plant selection
Lighting programming
Timeline: 3-6 weeks
$300-$1,200

Our Complete Setup Process

1

Consultation & Planning

1-2 hours

We discuss your goals, assess the location, recommend tank size and type, and create a detailed plan including equipment, livestock, and budget.

2

Equipment Sourcing

1-2 weeks

We source high-quality equipment, tanks, stands, and supplies. We can work with your existing equipment or provide everything needed.

3

Installation & Setup

2-6 hours

Professional installation of tank, stand, filtration, lighting, heating, and all equipment. We ensure everything is level, secure, and properly connected.

4

Cycling & Maturation

2-6 weeks

We establish beneficial bacteria through proper cycling, monitor water parameters daily, and ensure the tank is biologically ready for fish.

5

Stocking & Training

1-2 weeks

Carefully introduce fish and livestock in proper order. We provide complete training on feeding, maintenance, and equipment operation.

What's Included in Setup Service

Complete consultation and custom design
Tank and stand placement and leveling
All equipment installation and setup
Plumbing for sumps and filtration systems
Aquascaping with rocks, driftwood, or live rock
Substrate selection and installation
Water conditioning and initial fill
Complete cycling process management
Water parameter testing and monitoring
Initial livestock selection and acclimation
Owner training and care instructions
Follow-up visits and support

Why Choose Professional Setup

Done Right First Time

Avoid costly mistakes and fish losses by having experts set up your tank properly from the start.

Save Time & Stress

Skip the learning curve and frustration. We handle everything while you enjoy the results.

Professional Equipment

We recommend and install the right equipment for your specific tank type and goals.

Complete Training

Learn proper maintenance, feeding, and troubleshooting from experienced professionals.

Request a Free Quote

Fill out the form and we'll contact you within 24 hours

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Setup Pricing

Freshwater Setup

$200-$800

Saltwater/Reef Setup

$500-$2,500

Planted Tank Setup

$300-$1,200

Prices include labor, cycling, and stocking. Tank and equipment quoted separately.

Ready to Start?

(202) 768-7061

Free consultation available

Aquarium Setup FAQs

Common questions about professional aquarium installation

More questions about getting started?

Visit Our Complete FAQ Page

Ready to Start Your Dream Aquarium?

Let our experts handle the setup while you enjoy the results