Tank Cycling
After adding the water to your aquarium and assembling the filter, aerator, and heater, you will need to cycle your tank. Cycling your tank will help you create a stable nitrogen cycle, which is needed to insure your fish's survival. To cycle your tank, simply run the filter and aerator without stopping for up to 3 weeks. The chart below will help you decide how long to cycle your tank.
5 Gallons - 4 days
10 Gallons - 8 days
15 Gallons - 8 days
20 Gallons - 12 days
30 Gallons - 12 days
40 Gallons - 14 days
40 Gallons - 14 days
50 Gallons or larger - 21 days
5 Gallons - 4 days
10 Gallons - 8 days
15 Gallons - 8 days
20 Gallons - 12 days
30 Gallons - 12 days
40 Gallons - 14 days
40 Gallons - 14 days
50 Gallons or larger - 21 days