How to Clean a Fish Tank Like a Pro? | Full Guide + AMC vs DIY

Cleaning a fish tank isn’t just about making it look good—it’s about keeping your fish healthy and stress-free. If your tank water is cloudy, has algae build-up, or the fish are hiding more than usual, it’s time for a deep clean. In this complete guide, we’ll walk you through how to clean a fish tank like a pro and explain when it’s better to hire an AMC (Annual Maintenance Contract) service—especially if you're in Pune.

 

Why Regular Cleaning Is Crucial

• Removes excess waste and uneaten food

• Keeps ammonia, nitrites, and nitrates under control

• Prevents algae overgrowth

• Enhances the health and color of fish

• Improves oxygen flow and filter performance

 Step-by-Step: How to Clean a Fish Tank Like a Pro

1. Gather Tools and Supplies

• Algae scraper or magnetic cleaner

• Gravel vacuum or siphon

• Bucket (used only for aquarium)

• Aquarium-safe glass cleaner

• Filter brush

• Fresh dechlorinated water

• Beneficial bacteria supplement

2. Turn Off All Electrical Equipment

Switch off filters, heaters, and lights. Safety first!

3. Clean the Glass from Inside

Use an algae scraper or magnetic cleaner to remove buildup from tank walls. Avoid using kitchen sponges—they may contain chemicals.

4. Vacuum the Substrate

Use a gravel vacuum to remove debris from the bottom.

• Don’t disturb the gravel too much if it’s a planted tank.

• Siphon out 20–30% of the water at the same time.

5. Clean the Decorations & Hardscape

Take out any plastic decor or rocks with heavy algae and scrub gently. Don't use soap—only rinse with tank water.

6. Clean the Filter (But carefully!)

• Rinse only the sponges or media with tank water (never tap water).

• Replace filter media only if it’s too clogged and non-functional.

 This step is crucial for preserving beneficial bacteria.

7. Top Up with Treated Water

Add dechlorinated water slowly to match the tank’s temperature. Check the pH, ammonia, and nitrate levels after refilling.

8. Add Beneficial Bacteria

Boost your biofiltration by adding live bacteria—especially after large water changes.

9. Wipe the Outer Glass and Restart Equipment

Use a microfiber cloth and aquarium-safe glass cleaner. Restart the filter and heater once the water is full.

 How Often Should You Clean a Fish Tank?

Task	Frequency
Wipe inner glass	Weekly
Gravel vacuum & water change	Every 1–2 weeks. Preferably monthly.
Filter cleaning	Monthly
Deep decor clean	Every 2–3 months

DIY Cleaning vs. AMC (Annual Maintenance Contract)

Feature	DIY	Blessings AMC Pune
Time Required	30–90 minutes	15 minutes (we do it for you)
Expertise Needed	Medium to High	Professional and reliable
Cost-Effective	Yes (if done correctly)	Long-term saving with expert care
Emergency Support	No	Yes – emergency visits possible
Water Testing	Often skipped	Included with AMC

 Why Choose Blessings Aquarium AMC in Pune?

• 20+ years of experience in fish tank servicing

• Custom AMC plans for homes, offices, and villas

• Expert team trained in planted, monster, and biotope tanks

• On-time visits, detailed reports, and health checks for fish.

  
  

Knowing how to clean a fish tank like a pro can help keep your aquatic pets healthy and your tank beautiful. But if you’re short on time or handling a large setup, it’s smart to opt for professional AMC services—especially with a trusted name like Blessings Aquarium in Pune.