Beginner’s Guide: How to Set Up an Aqua One Freshwater Aquarium

If you’re starting your journey into freshwater fishkeeping, Aqua One aquariums are a fantastic choice. Known for their user-friendly design, integrated technology, and stylish finishes, they’re perfect for beginners. Whether you’ve picked an AquaNano, AquaVue, or a full cabinet setup like the OakStyle, this guide will walk you through how to set it up correctly—so you can build a healthy, thriving aquatic environment from day one.

What You’ll Need

Before setting up your Aqua One aquarium, gather the essentials:

• ✅ Aqua One aquarium (e.g. OakStyle 85, AquaNano 40, AquaVue 60)

• ✅ Filter (usually included)

• ✅ LED lighting (usually included)

• ✅ Aquarium heater (for tropical fish)

• ✅ Thermometer

• ✅ Dechlorinator/water conditioner

• ✅ Substrate (gravel or sand)

• ✅ Plants & decorations

• ✅ Water testing kit (ammonia, nitrite, nitrate, pH)

• ✅ Fish food

• ✅ Fish net, algae scraper, and siphon hose

Step-by-Step Setup Guide

1. Choose the Right Location

Place your aquarium on a stable, level surface away from direct sunlight, drafts, or heat sources. If using an OakStyle or Aqua One cabinet, ensure the floor can support the weight when full of water.

💡 Tip: Avoid placing it near windows to prevent algae growth from natural light.

2. Install Equipment

Unbox the aquarium and:

• Rinse the tank with warm water only—no soap.

• Position the filter and heater (if required) according to the manual.

• Fit the LED light in the lid or canopy.

⚠️ Do not plug anything in yet.

3. Add Substrate & Decorations

Rinse the substrate (gravel/sand) thoroughly to remove dust, then:

• Add 1–2 inches of substrate.

• Position rocks, driftwood, and plants before filling.

• Secure live plants into the gravel or use plant weights.

4. Fill the Aquarium with Water

Slowly fill the tank using a plate or plastic bag to prevent disturbing the substrate:

• Add room-temperature tap water.

• Use Aqua One water conditioner to remove chlorine and heavy metals.

5. Start Your Filter and Heater

Now plug in your:

• Filter – make sure water is flowing and there are no leaks.

• Heater – set the temperature to 24–26°C (75–79°F) for tropical species.

✅ Allow 24–48 hours for the temperature and water chemistry to stabilize.

The Nitrogen Cycle: What You Must Know

Before adding fish, you need to cycle your aquarium, allowing beneficial bacteria to grow. This process removes harmful ammonia from fish waste.

3 Key Stages:

1. Ammonia rises (from fish waste or added ammonia)

2. Nitrite spikes as bacteria begin converting it

3. Nitrate forms, which is less toxic and removed via water change.

Cycling Tips:

• Add a bacteria starter to speed up the process

• Use a test kit to monitor ammonia, nitrite, and nitrate

• Cycling can take 2–4 weeks, so be patient

🧪 Only add fish once ammonia and nitrite levels read 0 ppm

Choosing Your First Freshwater Fish

Once the tank is cycled, begin stocking slowly. Great beginner fish for Aqua One tanks include:

• Guppies

• Platies

• Neon or Cardinal Tetras

• Corydoras Catfish

• Betta Fish (AquaNano tanks)

❗ Never add too many fish at once—go slowly to avoid shocking the ecosystem.

Maintenance Routine

To keep your Aqua One tank healthy:

Common Beginner Mistakes to Avoid

• ❌ Overfeeding

• ❌ Adding too many fish too soon

• ❌ Skipping water changes

• ❌ Forgetting to cycle the tank

• ❌ Mixing incompatible species

Conclusion

Setting up an Aqua One freshwater aquarium is rewarding and fun when done right. With quality gear, a little patience, and consistent care, you’ll soon have a vibrant aquatic world in your home. Whether you’ve chosen an OakStyle, AquaNano, or AquaVue, you’re well on your way to becoming a confident fishkeeper.