we have a 55 gallon tank do we fill it to the top with water? I was told yrs ago you dont?

Answer 1

If you get it too high, you might reduce the amount of surface area, cutting off the air/gas exchange. I try to fill mine just above the black support strip. This will keep the white mineral deposits from forming where everyone can see them.

Answer 2

I fill any tank so that the water level is hidden by the plastic strip around the top. Any less makes the filter work harder to pull up the water if you use a hang-on power filter. The water level should be high enough that when the water comes out of the filter it makes a ripple effect across the top of the water, which increases surface area for oxygen/CO2 exchange. You don't want a "waterfall" effect where the water drops into the water. This makes more noise than anything, and disturbs less surface area, so it provides less oxygen. If you use a tank cover, it also splashes water onto the cover making it necessary to clean it more often.

Answer 3

Hi, It's really a matter of personal choice. However if you have a light that sits on the top, you might accidentally have some wires come into contact with water, if you fill the tank over the black plastic rim. Well lets just say that could be a very shocking experience.

Answer 4

I have 55 and 100 gal tanks. I keep mine full, the water level is at the bottom of the plastic band areund the tank top. never had any problems

Answer 5

I leave 1/4 inch between the plastic rim and the water level that way if there is a crack in the tank (god forbid) I can spot it :)

Answer 6

you should not fill it up all the way leave at least a 1 or 2 inches from the water.

Answer 7

its not a problem just make sure you have a cover so that a fish might not fall over if he/she attempts to jump out