Top 5 Accessories to Upgrade Your Desktop Aquarium Setup
- PNW Custom
- Dec 5, 2025
- 3 min read
Updated: Jul 29
Your PNW Custom aquarium is designed to be successful right out of the box, but the right accessories can make owning a desktop aquarium even more enjoyable. Whether you're looking to simplify maintenance, improve stability, or give your setup a cleaner, more premium look, these are our favorite upgrades that make a real difference.
1. Micro Reef Controller
If there's one accessory that completely transforms the experience of owning a desktop aquarium, it's the Micro Reef Controller. Instead of manually adjusting equipment, the controller gives you complete control over your aquarium from one compact device. Whether you're at home or away, it gives you more confidence that your aquarium is running exactly the way it should.
With the Micro Reef Controller you can:
Schedule and dim your lights
Automatically control your heater with an external temperature probe
View your aquarium temperature in real time
Adjust your return pump speed and flow modes
Control multiple pieces of equipment from one simple interface
Compatibility: 40oz Micro Tank, 1 Gallon Small-In-One, and any aquarium with USB-powered equipment
2. Sump Cover & Drip Tray
Protect your desk while making maintenance stress-free. Water changes, coral placement, cleaning pumps: it all involves a little water.
Our custom Drip Trays catch those small drips before they reach your desk, helping protect wood surfaces while keeping your workspace looking clean. They're designed specifically for PNW Custom aquariums and blend seamlessly into the overall setup.
Compatibility: 40oz Micro Tank, 1 Gallon Small-In-One, 1.5 Gallon Small-In-One
The Micro Tank Sump Cover is designed to slide seamlessly over your existing sump, instantly transforming it into a sleek, modern display. It also helps reduce evaporation.
It creates a cleaner visual profile while still allowing quick and easy access whenever maintenance is needed. Just slide it on or off as needed.
Compatibility: 40oz Micro Tank
3. Master Tool Kit
The Master Tool Kit gives you everything you need to maintain, trim, and fine-tune your small reef with confidence. Each tool is crafted from stainless steel and laser-engraved with the PNW Custom logo, then housed in a compact, engraved carrying case that stores neatly in your reef stand or travel bag.
Need a larger version for your desktop reef? We also have an XL option available:
Compatibility: All Desktop Aquariums
4. Auto Top Off (ATO)
It's important to pay close attention to salinity in small tanks. With our polycarbonate lids and maintenance routine, topping off your aquarium is a simple task. However, our Micro Auto Top Off can make it even easier. Pair it with our ATO Water Container.
Compatibility: All Desktop Aquariums
5. Heater or Cooling Kit
If you keep your house at above 70°, or live in an especially cold environment, you may need to add a heater or a cooling kit.
Our heaters feature sensitive thermostats and slim form factors, ensuring stable temperatures with minimal footprint. Ideal for sensitive livestock like corals and small fish where every degree counts.
Our cooling kit uses efficient fans and thermal sensors to keep your water within a safe band. Think of it as air‑conditioning for your aquarium setup: consistent, quiet, and essential in warmer rooms.
Compatibility: All Desktop Aquariums
Compatibility: 40oz Micro Tank, 1 Gallon Small-In-One, 1.5 Gallon Small-In-One, 5 Gallon Small-In-One XL
Ready to Get Reefing?
Every PNW Custom aquarium is designed to succeed right out of the box, so none of these upgrades are required. But if you're looking to simplify maintenance, automate your setup, or create a cleaner, more premium display, these accessories are some of the best investments you can make.
Whether you're running a 40oz Micro Reef or a 5 Gallon Small-In-One, these upgrades help make reef keeping even more enjoyable.
