How to move an aquarium in Maryland

Moving an aquarium definitely seems like an intimidating task. Especially if you have a large tank. However, with proper organization, it is certainly achievable to safely move an aquarium in Maryland, with all its contents. And if you’re relocating across the country, think about re-homing your fish and purchasing new ones when you get settled. Or you can check with your local fish store to see if they can board your fish and ship them overnight, as soon as you have your aquarium placed in its new location. With the best moving companies in Maryland, you can know all about moving an aquarium in Maryland.

The required equipment to move an aquarium in Maryland

Firstly, you need the know what equipment you need in order to move an aquarium. You will certainly need:

• Siphon hose
• Fishnets
• Containers to transport water
• Water Conditioner
• Air pump
• Padding
• Wet/dry vacuum
• Hand cart
• Leveling shims

It is important to prepare all those items so that you can get your aquarium ready for the relocation. And movers in Gaithersburg MD will gladly help you to move your fish tank!

Prepare your aquarium

There are a few things that you need to know when moving a fish tank. For the beginning, you need to make sure that the floor in your aquarium’s new home can support the weight and is level. Also, make sure that there is an electrical supply nearby. Because you need to connect the air pump for the aquarium. As for huge or uniquely shaped aquariums, you need to be sure that the doorways and stairwells are wide enough. So that you have enough turning space in tight corners. And, most importantly, check the water supply in your new location in order to compare pH, alkalinity, and other water chemistry parameters.

Move an aquarium in Maryland

You should what is the most important thing to do if you want to relocate your fish, live plants, or reef inhabitants with you. That is to save and transport as much of the water as possible, which is about 75% to 80% of the tank water. Because it will definitely reduce the stress on your aquarium inhabitants. Additionally, it will help to re-establish the biological balance as soon as you set your aquarium up in its new place. You can achieve this by using 5-gallon buckets with snap-on lids. Also, if you plan to use tubs in order to transport water, make sure that they are sturdy. So that you can pick them up when they’re filled. If you have small or medium-sized fish, you can transport them in fish bags. But you need to put those bags in coolers or styrofoam shipping containers in order to maintain the right temperature. You can always ask for help from local movers in Maryland when it comes to transporting your aquarium!

Tips for moving your fish

Now we will list some basic tips for moving your fish:

• You should use battery-operated air pumps in containers with large fish when moving over long distances
• If you decide to use fish bags, make sure to fill 1/3 with water and 2/3 air
• We strongly recommend a double bag in order to prevent punctures
• Place bags on their sides to increase swimming space

If you are relocating your aquarium long distances, you can always consult with long-distance movers in Maryland and find the best way to safely relocate your fish tank!

The Move

Start with unplugging the heater and allow it to cool for half an hour before detaching it from the aquarium. You can use this time to check the heating tube for algae and mineral deposits. If there are any of those, make sure to remove them while the heater is still wet. Next, you should remove filtration equipment and circulation pumps. Bear in mind that you need to keep the biological media wet. You can do so by placing it in aged aquarium water. Or a sealed container. Afterward, siphon the aquarium water that you intend to take with you into transport containers. Then gently remove décor items and if there are any artificial plants. Also, inspect the décor in order to make sure that no fish are hiding in a cavity. It is very important to know that you shouldn’t place rocks or heavy objects in containers. Because those can be harmful to your fish during transport. Since they may shift and injure your fish.

Set up your aquarium in your new home

When you arrive in your new home, you should prepare the perfect location for your aquarium. First, place the stand in its new location and use shims to level it. And make sure that it’s stable and that doesn’t wobble. You can also replace background material on the tank if needed before putting it on the stand. There should be enough clearance behind the aquarium for filters, overflow boxes, and other equipment. As soon as the tank is placed on the stand, you can add gravel, sand, or rockwork. As well as some other artificial decorations.

Don’t forget to install power strips, heater, and filters. Firstly, fill the tank approximately halfway with old water, pouring it onto a plate or shallow bowl in order to avoid disturbing the gravel. Afterward, add plants or some other items. Then you can add the remaining old water. And gradually introduce the fish. Lastly, fill the aquarium with new conditioned water and install filters, circulation pumps, and heater. Then you can put covers and lighting. However, you should leave the light off for a few hours in order to give your fish a chance to adjust to their new surroundings.

We hope that this will help you to move an aquarium in Maryland. After you have safely moved your fish tank, you can relax and enjoy your new home.