First Fish Tank

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CupcakesEtc

Feeder Fish
MFK Member
Sep 4, 2012
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St. Louis
Hi. I am setting up my first fish tank. It is a used tank that was given to me. It is 30 gallons and it came with a heater and powerhead (both used). I have done a lot of research on setting up a tank. I did the majority of the set up today. (I do not have any fish yet.) I bought a new filter. I plugged it in and it makes a sound but doesn't suck up water. I think there is something wrong, but if anyone knows if I'm doing something wrong, please let me know.

I plugged in the powerhead. (It is the kind that connects to an "under gravel lifting tube.") The lady at Petsmart said those aren't used as much anymore, but I don't know what is used instead. I plugged in the powerhead that I was given with the tank. The top part vibrates gently but it doesn't do anything else. I am starting to think it's broken, but again, if you know what I'm doing wrong, please let me know. I've searched around to see if powerheads are necessary in a fresh water tank. What do you think? If it is necessary, can you recommend a brand/model?

I plugged in the heater and within a minute, it was so hot that it melted the suction cups that held it on the side of the tank. I got it out of there ASAP.

Also, is a bubble maker necessary?

Overall, my fish tank set up didn't go so well. Any advice you can provide is appreciated.
 
fill the filter with water before you start it up.
 
do you know the brand and/or model for the equipment?

Sometimes my powerheads will start 'in reverse', but I unplug them (sometimes takes a second try) and they fix themselves. That only happens once in a long while. You don't need the powerhead, though you could power a sponge filter with it (or an air pump - which is also not usually required, but is useful for creating surface tension - which is required unless you have a heavily planted tank).
 
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