20 Gallon Tank Equipment Suggestions

[son2fu]

im looking to get a new 20 gallon tank( as my first).
I would like to know what I should get
filter
heater
ect.

 

[xoedusk]

Welcome.

Here's what I would suggest. I probably left something out:

1. Filter. One that won't break. Make sure it is rated for 20 gallons.
2. Heater. It is safer to get two 50 watts rather than one 100 watt. In case one decides to go crazy. But of course one heater would be easier.
3. Water testing kit. Make sure it has pH, ammonia, nitrite, nitrate. API Freshwater Master Test Kit would be great.
4. Substrate. Rocks are good for a beginner.
5. Caves/plants for hiding. Reduce stress.
6. Fish net.
7. Gravel Vac. Keep your substrate clean.
8. Food. For your fish.
9. Algae scraper. Though this can wait.
10. Dechlorinator. So your tap water is safe to add to the tank.

You may want to invest in a quarentine tank. Do a search if you don't know what this is.

Now you will need to cycle your tank first before you add the fish you want. If you are unsure of what this is, I suggest you read up on the pinned topic here in the the "Beginners Questions." This is very important.

Good luck. Let us know how it goes.

 

[son2fu]

any particular brands for the equipment?

 

[dwarfgourami]

Also:

buckets for water changes (2 should do you)

plastic measuring jug or similar for pouring water into tank, mixing medicine in etc

plastic sheet for the floor

 

[xoedusk]

In my experience, quality correlates with price in fish equipment. Don't get a filter that costs 3 dollars.

 

[Gazoo]

any particular brands for the equipment?

There are many good brands but I use AquaClear power filters and Visi-Therm heaters.

Don't forget a thermometer. It's important to know the water is in the correct temperature range. I would also recommend a strip light and a few different types food so the fish get variety in their diet.

Although it seems like all of the accessories add up to a lot of dough, you will get many years of use out of them if you stick with the hobby.