Living Aquariumby SaltwaterAquariumBlog
Prototype v53

YOUR SALTWATER AQUARIUM STARTS HERE

One step closer
to your own ocean.

Build your saltwater setup, one decision at a time. Explore 12 lessons, try the interactive tools, and see your choices come together.

Go at your own pace.
12 guided lessonsYour equipment summary

See how it works 39 seconds

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Read the demo transcript

An interactive guide to explore how to set up a saltwater aquarium. To navigate, click “Open All Lessons.” Jump ahead or back to a specific topic. Use the Continue and Back buttons to move through the tutorial step by step. Many steps have interactive elements to explore, like the sand-depth slider, the live-rock estimator, the pump location tool, and the heater setting tool. Want to learn more? Each step links to an article for more information. At the end, review your choices in the summary. Or return to any step to make a change.

Setup Guide · Lesson 1 of 12 · Preflight

Leak test

Step 1 · PreflightMake sure the aquarium holds water

Product 1 · Setup Guide

Set up the aquarium, one decision at a time.

This lane ends with a setup plan. Fish selection and compatibility live in the next products, so we can explain each physical step properly here.
Lesson 1 of 12Source Step 1 · Leak test
All lessons
Step 1

Preflight

Make sure the aquarium holds water

Test with freshwater somewhere a leak would cause minimal damage before the aquarium reaches its final location.
Open the source guidance for Step 1. Opens in a new tab.Read the complete guide step
This happens before the tank reaches its final room

Use freshwater in a garage, patio, or another place where a leak would cause minimal damage. The purpose is to check the tank—not to make saltwater.

Visual leak-test demonstrationThe aquarium starts completely emptyStart the fill when you are ready to inspect the aquarium in stages.

Marking these cards is practice only. This guide cannot inspect your aquarium or confirm it is leak-free.

Setup choices stay with your aquarium profile.

Teaching and planning only: this guide cannot inspect the aquarium, test water, verify electrical safety, prove cycle readiness, or clear an animal through quarantine.