A 100 gallon fish tank is a great size aquarium for both beginners and experienced aquarists. With its generous capacity, a 100 gallon tank provides ample space for fish to swim and decorate with live plants and decor. But exactly what are the dimensions of a 100 gallon aquarium? And what considerations should you make when getting one for your home? This comprehensive guide will cover everything you need to know about the size and setup of a 100 gallon fish tank.
What Are the Dimensions of a 100 Gallon Aquarium?
The dimensions of a 100 gallon fish tank can vary, as there are a few common footprints used by manufacturers. Here are some standard sizes:
Standard 100 Gallon Tank Dimensions
- 48 x 24 x 24 inches (Length x Width x Height)
- 60 x 18 x 24 inches
- 72 x 18 x 22 inches
As you can see, the length ranges from 4 to 6 feet, while the width is 1.5 to 2 feet. The height is usually between 22 to 24 inches. Generally, the bigger the base footprint, the shorter the tank height.
The 48 x 24 x 24 inch size is the most common, as it offers a large surface area for swimming and decorating while not taking up too much floor space in a room. The 60 x 18 x 24 inch footprint is a little more unconventional but gives more horizontal swimming space. The 72 x 18 x 22 inch dimensions prioritize length over height.
So in summary, while a 100 gallon tank can come in different shapes, they average 4 to 6 feet long by 1.5 to 2 feet wide and stand about 2 feet tall.
| 100 Gallon Tank Size | Length x Width x Height |
|---|---|
| Standard | 48 x 24 x 24 inches |
| Horizontal | 60 x 18 x 24 inches |
| Long | 72 x 18 x 22 inches |
Where to Place a 100 Gallon Aquarium in Your Home
A 100 gallon tank is quite large, so make sure you have adequate space for it before purchasing one. Here are some tips on placement in your home:
- Check the floor plan and measure the area you intend to place it. Confirm the tank will fit dimensions-wise.
- Ensure the floor is level and sturdy enough to hold the weight of a 100 gallon tank, which can be over 1000 lbs when filled.
- Pick a location away from direct sunlight, which can cause algae growth.
- Avoid areas with high traffic or that are too noisy, as this stresses fish.
- Place near a power outlet or use an extension cord rated for aquarium appliances.
- Leave space around the aquarium for maintenance and cleaning access.
- Use a stand specifically sized to properly hold and distribute the tank’s weight.
Some ideal spots are in living rooms, family rooms, dens, or aquarium rooms. Just remember to account for the tank’s large footprint. Having a dedicated aquarium room is great for larger tanks.
How Much Does a 100 Gallon Fish Tank Weigh?
A critical question when getting a large tank is: how much does a 100 gallon aquarium weigh? Here’s a breakdown:
- Empty 100 gallon glass tank – 150 to 200 lbs
- Empty 100 gallon acrylic tank – 80 to 100 lbs
- Filled 100 gallon tank – over 1000 lbs
Glass is heavier than acrylic but more affordable. Once filled with water, decor, substrate, and fish, expect a total weight over 1000 pounds. Make sure your tank stand and flooring can handle the load. A proper stand distributes the weight evenly to avoid buckling or cracking.
Always place the tank on a level surface. The immense weight of a filled 100 gallon aquarium can cause stands and floors to shift and warp over time. Monitoring for levelness and structural integrity is key.
What Fish Can Live in a 100 Gallon Tank?
A 100 gallon aquarium provides ample room for both small and large fish species. Here are some popular fish options:
- Large Cichlids – Oscars, Jack Dempseys, Green Terrors, etc.
- Catfish – Pictus, Corydoras, Pleco species.
- Characins – Silver Dollars, larger Tetras, Giant Danios.
- Livebearers – Mollies, Platies, Swordtails.
- Barbs – Tiger and other large Barbs.
- Rainbowfish – Boesmani, Australian Rainbowfish.
- Sharks – Redtail and Rainbow Sharks (need lots of swimming space).
- Goldfish – Common and Comet Goldfish (not fancy varieties).
- Pufferfish – Congo, Fahaka and other large species.
Avoid overstocking by selecting fish appropriate for a 100 gallon tank. Mix species with similar temperaments and water condition needs. Large aggressive fish may require a 100 gallon tank to themselves. Smaller community fish thrive in large groups.
Equipment Needed for a 100 Gallon Aquarium
Setting up a new 100 gallon tank involves getting the right filtration, heating, and other equipment to keep fish healthy. Here are recommended supplies:
- Canister Filter – A large external canister filter rated for 100+ gallon aquariums. Models like the Fluval FX6 or Eheim Pro 4+ are excellent choices.
- Aquarium Heater – Heaters between 200 to 300 watts appropriately heat 100 gallons. Choose adjustable submersible heaters.
- Powerheads – Circulation pumps like Hydor Koralia provide proper water flow.
- Lighting – LED aquarium lighting gives the light output needed for this deep tank size. Go for full spectrum.
- Thermometer – Crucial for monitoring water temperature. Get an accurate glass thermometer or digital probe.
- Gravel Vacuum – A good siphon vacuum makes gravel cleaning easy in a large tank.
- Algae Scraper – Long handled scrapers allow you to reach all glass surfaces in a deep 100 gallon aquarium.
Invest in quality equipment suited for the tank volume to keep water clean and fish healthy. Don’t skimp on filtration and lighting for a 100 gallon system.
How Much Does It Cost to Set Up a 100 Gallon Aquarium?
A 100 gallon fish tank setup can cost $1000 to $2000 depending on the equipment chosen. Here’s a rough breakdown:
- 100 Gallon Glass Aquarium – $350 to $600
- Filter – $150 to $400
- Heater – $50 to $100
- Lighting – $100 to $300
- Substrate and Decor – $100 to $500
- Stand – $200 to $600
- Plants, Fish, Supplies – $100 to $500
With high-end gear, the total can reach $2000 or more. Options like acrylic instead of glass and advanced lighting add cost. Buying used tanks and equipment saves money for those on a budget.
Maintenance is also a consideration. Equipment, water changes, fish food, and replacing filter media costs more for a large 100+ gallon tank. But the spectacular aquarium display is worth it for many hobbyists.
Setting Up and Cycling a New 100 Gallon Aquarium
Once you get the tank and equipment, properly setting up and cycling the aquarium is crucial. Here is an overview of the process:
- Assemble and level the stand, then place the tank on top.
- Add substrate like gravel or aquasoil. Slope gently towards the rear.
- Install filter, heater, thermometer, lighting, and other equipment.
- Fill tank with dechlorinated water slowly to avoid disturbing substrate.
- Decorate with rocks, driftwood, plants. Create hiding spots for fish.
- Start filter and heater. Adjust temperature to around 76-82°F for tropical fish.
- Cycle tank by dosing pure ammonia to feed beneficial bacteria growth.
- Test water parameters daily. Wait until tank fully cycles before adding any fish.
- Stock tank slowly over several weeks once the cycle completes. Avoid adding too many fish at once.
- Perform regular partial water changes and tank maintenance. Enjoy your new 100 gallon aquarium!
Take things slowly and be patient when starting up a new system. Rushing the process can sabotage water quality and clarity in a large tank.
Maintaining Proper Water Parameters in a 100 Gallon Aquarium
The water parameters you need to monitor and maintain in a 100 gallon freshwater tank include:
- Temperature – Keep the temperature stable between 76-82°F for most tropical fish. Use the aquarium heater and thermometer.
- pH – Ideal pH is around 7.0 to 7.5 for community tropical tanks. African cichlid tanks prefer higher pH around 8.0-8.4.
- Ammonia – Toxic to fish. Keep ammonia at zero ppm by testing regularly and performing partial water changes.
- Nitrite – Also toxic. Level should measure at zero ppm once the tank cycles.
- Nitrate – Only remove via water changes. Aim for 20 ppm or less.
- GH/KH – General and carbonate hardness. Important for live plants and buffering pH.
Test with an aquarium water test kit. Correct any parameters outside ideal ranges. This prevents disease and keeps fish thriving.
Performing Routine Maintenance on a 100 Gallon Tank
Don’t let the large size deter you – routine maintenance is essential on a 100 gallon aquarium. Follow this schedule:
- Partial Water Changes – Change out 25-30% of the water weekly. Use gravel vacuum to remove debris.
- Filter Maintenance – Rinse mechanical media monthly. Replace chemical media like carbon every 2-3 months.
- Glass Cleaning – Clean inside glass weekly or when visible algae appears. Use algae scraper.
- Substrate Cleaning – Stir gravel to prevent dead spots. Remove and replace substrate annually.
- Prune Plants – Trim any overgrown live plants. Remove decaying plant matter.
- Test Water – Check temperature and parameters weekly or if any issues arise.
- Inspect Equipment – Make sure filter, heater and other gear are running properly.
- Inspect Fish – Check fish health, treat any illness quickly. Remove dead fish immediately.
Don’t skip water changes and filter rinsing. This keeps the large water volume clean and clear for fish to thrive.
Conclusion
With its spacious 100 gallon capacity, this size aquarium allows you to create an eye-catching freshwater habitat. From dimenions to placement, setup, stocking, and maintenance, make sure you fully understand how to care for a large tank before getting one.
A 100 gallon aquarium takes commitment but provides a stunning aquatic environment when properly managed. Do your research, invest in quality equipment, perform routine upkeep, and your fish will thrive for years to come!
Common Questions about 100 Gallon Aquariums
What size tank stand do I need for a 100 gallon aquarium?
You need an aquarium stand or cabinet made specifically to support a 100 gallon tank. It should match the footprint dimensions of your tank size. Sturdy steel or wood stands with a center brace are best to prevent buckling.
Is a 100 gallon tank suitable for beginners?
Yes, as long as you research proper setup and care for a large system. The bigger water volume makes maintaining stable water parameters easier than smaller tanks. Focus on hardy fish species and don’t overstock.
How many fish can I put in a 100 gallon aquarium?
You can house 20-40 smaller schooling community fish. Or a single showpiece fish like an Oscar cichlid. Never overstock as overcrowding stresses fish and crashes water quality. Add fish slowly over time.
Do I need two filters for a 100 gallon tank?
One large external canister filter like a Fluval FX6 should be sufficient. Extra circulation from powerheads ensures proper filtration. Adding a second filter provides extra mechanical and biological filtration.
How often should I change the water in a 100 gallon aquarium?
To keep nitrates under 20 ppm, perform 25-30% water changes weekly, changing out 25-30 gallons. Test nitrates often and change water accordingly. Proper stocking levels and not overfeeding helps reduce waste buildup.