How to Move an Aquarium

How to Move an Aquarium: A Complete Guide

Moving an aquarium can be a challenging task, especially if you have a large tank. Proper planning and care are essential to ensure the safety of your fish and the protection of your aquarium equipment. If you prefer to leave the heavy lifting to experts, Combo Services is here to help you move the aquarium. This guide will help you successfully move an aquarium in Toronto and the Greater Toronto Area (GTA).

Step 1: Preparation for the Move

Before you start, gather all the necessary materials:

• Buckets or containers for temporarily housing the fish.
• Plastic bags or air-filled containers to transport live plants.
• Siphon to drain the water.
• Packing materials like bubble wrap, towels, and foam for the tank and equipment.
• Aquarium-safe water conditioner to treat tap water at the new location.

Step 2: Remove Fish and Plants

Begin by carefully transferring your fish into buckets filled with the original tank water. It’s essential to use the same water to reduce stress on the fish. Next, gently remove any live plants and pack them in plastic bags with a bit of water to keep them moist.

Step 3: Drain the Aquarium

Using a siphon, slowly drain the water from the tank. Keep in mind that transporting a tank with water inside can be risky. It's best to transport the tank dry. Save about 50% of the original water in sealed containers if possible, to help quickly establish a familiar environment at the new location.

Step 4: Pack and Transport the Equipment

Disconnect and carefully pack all equipment such as filters, heaters, and lighting. Wrap each piece individually in bubble wrap or towels to prevent damage during transportation. For fragile or large aquariums, you might want to consider hiring professional moving services in Toronto or the GTA, especially if your tank exceeds 50 gallons.

Step 5: Moving the Aquarium

Transporting the aquarium itself can be tricky. Make sure to:

• Protect the tank by wrapping it in blankets or foam padding.
• Use a dolly for larger tanks to prevent injury or damage.
• Avoid lifting the tank by the edges to prevent cracking or breaking the glass.

For tanks larger than 75 gallons, it’s highly recommended to get help from professional movers who specialize in handling delicate and heavy items like aquariums.

Step 6: Setting Up at the New Location

Once you’ve arrived at your new home:

1. Place the tank in its new location before reassembling any equipment.
2. Add the saved water and then fresh, conditioned water until the tank is full.
3. Allow the water to settle and reach the appropriate temperature before reintroducing your fish.

Step 7: Reintroducing Fish and Plants

Carefully acclimate your fish to the new water conditions by floating them in their containers inside the tank for 15-20 minutes. Slowly add small amounts of tank water to their containers to adjust them to the new environment. Afterward, you can release the fish and reposition your live plants.

Conclusion

Moving an aquarium within Toronto or the GTA requires careful preparation and attention to detail. With proper planning and patience, you can safely relocate your tank and its inhabitants without major issues. For larger tanks or more complex setups, consider hiring professionals to ensure everything goes smoothly..l  We specialize in moving delicate and heavy items like aquariums, providing white-glove service to ensure everything arrives safely and securely. Whether you're relocating across Toronto or anywhere in the GTA, Combo Services will make sure your aquarium is transported with the utmost care. Contact us today to make your move stress-free!