Aquarium Maintenance
Saltwater Aquarium Maintenance Schedule: Daily, Weekly, Monthly Tasks
A printable maintenance routine that keeps reef parameters stable and livestock thriving with minimal effort.
In this article
Consistent, modest maintenance beats occasional heroic interventions. Use this schedule as a baseline; adjust for bioload and coral demand.
Daily (5 minutes)
- Visually inspect every fish — behavior, color, breathing rate.
- Check temperature and salinity on the controller.
- Top off evaporated water (or verify the ATO).
- Feed measured portions, observe pickiness or aggression.
Weekly (30 minutes)
- Test alkalinity, calcium, magnesium, nitrate, phosphate.
- Empty and rinse the protein skimmer collection cup.
- Wipe display glass.
- 10–15% water change with mixed and aerated saltwater.
Monthly (90 minutes)
- Replace filter socks or floss.
- Clean powerhead impellers in vinegar.
- Rinse return pump.
- Inspect and replace ATO sensors.
Track every task automatically with our Aquarium Maintenance Tracker.
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