How often should I do water changes on a PNW Custom tank?

We recommend a 30-50% water change once a week. This is the perfect amount to replenish the tank with clean water and nutrients.

Is a small aquarium harder to maintain than a large one?

A poorly designed small tank can be challenging, but a properly designed desktop aquarium is very manageable. PNW Custom tanks are specifically built to help maintain stable water conditions, and because the water volume is smaller, maintenance is quicker and more predictable. Many beginners find small tanks easier to stay consistent with long-term than larger systems.

What parameters should I monitor?

Salinity and temperature are the most critical parameters to monitor in small aquariums. Stable salinity and temperature keeps everything else more predictable. We recommend a Hanna Salinity Checker and Temperature Probe.

Maintenance Tips & Tools

Keep Your Desktop Aquarium Thriving

This page is your go-to maintenance resource for PNW Custom desktop aquariums, designed to help you build confidence, prevent common issues, and keep your tank healthy long-term. Whether you’re running a 40oz Micro Reef, Small-In-One, Peninsula, or Small-In-One XL, these tips are tailored specifically to the way our tanks are designed and how they perform best.