Aquarium service: what to know

What the job involves, what changes the price, and what to ask a pro.

What aquarium service is

A technician cleans the tank, tests the water, changes part of the water, and checks filters, heaters and equipment for a home or office aquarium. Regular service keeps the water chemistry stable and the fish and plants in good health.

Signs you need it

  • Your tank water is cloudy, smells or has algae that keeps coming back
  • You are not sure whether the water chemistry is stable enough for your fish
  • Your filter, heater or pump is making noise or is not working as it should
  • You have a large tank or a saltwater tank that needs regular care
  • You are away often and need someone to maintain the tank while you are gone

What the pro does

  • Asks about the tank size, the fish and plants, the equipment and the service history
  • Tests the water for the key levels and records the results with you
  • Removes part of the water and cleans the gravel, decor and glass as needed
  • Cleans or rinses the filter media using tank water, not tap water
  • Checks the heater, pump, lights and other equipment and reports any problem
  • Gives you the test results, the service notes and a plan for the next visit

What changes the price

Every job is different, so we do not publish prices. These are the things that move the quote up or down.

  • The tank size, the water volume and the number of tanks
  • Whether the tank is freshwater or saltwater, and the equipment it uses
  • Whether water testing, equipment checks or a deep clean are included
  • How often the service is needed and whether a regular schedule applies
  • Whether the technician must travel to a home or office
  • Whether water changes, filter parts or replacement equipment are included

What a written quote should spell out

  • The tank size, the service type and the steps included
  • Whether water testing and a written test report are included
  • Whether filter cleaning, equipment checks and a deep clean are included
  • Whether replacement parts or water conditioners are included
  • The cancellation terms and the schedule for regular visits

Questions to ask before you hire

  • What water tests do you run, and what results do you look for?
  • How do you clean the filter without killing the good bacteria?
  • Will you check the heater, pump and other equipment?
  • How do you handle a tank that is showing signs of illness or stress?
  • What water do you use for changes, and do you treat it?
  • How often should my tank be serviced for the fish and plants I have?
  • Can you work with my aquarium vet or a fish specialist if needed?

Red flags

  • Cleans the filter under tap water with no care for the bacteria
  • Changes a large share of the water at once with no check of the fish
  • Will not test the water or does not share the results
  • Adds chemicals to the tank with no label or no explanation
  • Does not ask about the fish, the plants or the equipment before starting

What you can do yourself

You can test the water with a basic kit, change a small part of the water on a schedule, and rinse filter media in tank water. Hire a technician for a deep clean, regular testing, equipment checks or a large or saltwater tank. For sick fish, consult a veterinarian who treats fish.

Licenses and permits

A license is often not required for aquarium service, but rules differ by state and city. Ask for proof of training, such as an aquarium maintenance course, and photos of work on tanks like yours.

Aquarium service questions

How often should an aquarium be cleaned?

It depends on the tank size, the fish load and the filtration. Ask the technician for a schedule, and track your water tests so you can see the trend over time.

Can the filter be cleaned with tap water?

It is better to rinse the filter media in tank water, because tap water can remove the bacteria that keep the water stable. Ask the technician how they clean your filter.

What if my fish are sick?

Separate the sick fish if you can, test the water, and call a veterinarian who treats fish or an aquatic specialist. Tell the technician about the symptoms and the test results.

About this guide

This national guide is written and checked by infinibell. Rules and conditions differ by place, so local pros are credited on guides for the cities they serve, not on national ones.

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