On this page
Aquarium stores sell a lot of equipment, and starter kits often leave out what matters while including what does not. A handful of pieces cover almost every freshwater tank.
Key figures
- over 8 pounds Water alone per US gallon
- 76 to 81°F PetMD water temperature range for bettas
The essentials
| Item | Why you need it |
|---|---|
| Tank and sturdy stand | Water is heavy; a US gallon weighs over 8 pounds |
| Filter | Houses the bacteria that break down ammonia and nitrite |
| Water conditioner | Neutralizes chlorine and chloramine in tap water |
| Test kit | The only way to see ammonia, nitrite, nitrate and pH |
| Heater and thermometer | Needed for tropical fish; not for most goldfish |
| Lid | Stops jumpers and reduces evaporation |
| Bucket and gravel vacuum | For weekly partial water changes |
Heater sizing
PetMD’s betta care sheet suggests a heater of roughly 3 to 5 watts per gallon and recommends checking with a thermometer that the water stays in range, 76 to 81°F for bettas. It notes that a heater is worth having even in a warm home, because temperature swings are very stressful to fish.
Where beginners overspend
- Decorations and backgrounds before the tank is cycled
- Medicines for problems that are really water quality
- Chemical additives that promise instant cycling or perfect pH
- A tiny tank, which is harder to keep stable than a medium one
A larger tank holds more water, which dilutes mistakes. The RSPCA notes larger volumes have more stable temperatures and water conditions.
The aquarium care budget separates setup from recurring supplies. Before stocking, the new-tank cycle guide explains the biological work the equipment supports.
Questions people ask
What do I need to start an aquarium?
A tank and stand, filter, water conditioner, test kit, lid, bucket and gravel vacuum, plus a heater and thermometer for tropical fish.
Do all fish need a heater?
Tropical fish do. Goldfish and some other cold-water fish usually do not.
What size heater do I need?
PetMD suggests about 3 to 5 watts per gallon for a betta tank. Always confirm with a thermometer.
Are starter kits worth it?
Some are, but check the filter size and whether a heater and test kit are included. Kits often skimp on those.
Where these figures come from
- Betta Fish Care Sheet PetMD · petmd.com
- Choosing an aquarium for pet fish RSPCA · rspca.org.uk
Figures last checked September 2026.
