Help Guides

The Charterhouse Aquatics Help Guides Blog provides comprehensive and practical advice on maintaining aquariums, offering expert tips, step-by-step guides, and product reviews to ensure a healthy and thriving aquatic environment for hobbyists and professionals alike.

Ideal Temperature Ranges for Freshwater & Marine Species
Advice

Ideal Temperature Ranges for Freshwater & Marine Species

One of the most critical aspects of aquarium care—whether for freshwater or marine systems—is maintaining a stable and species-appropriate temperature. Each fish, plant, coral, or invertebrate thrives within a specific...

Maintaining & Troubleshooting Your Aquarium Heating & Cooling Equipment
Advice

Maintaining & Troubleshooting Your Aquarium Heating & Cooling Equipment

In any aquarium—freshwater or marine—stable temperature is critical. Whether you’re using a heater to warm tropical fish or a chiller to keep corals cool, maintaining your temperature equipment is essential...

Effective Cooling Methods for Freshwater & Marine Aquariums
Advice

Effective Cooling Methods for Freshwater & Marine Aquariums

Maintaining stable water temperature is crucial in both freshwater and marine aquariums. While heating is essential in colder months, overheating is just as dangerous, especially during summer or when using...

Choosing the Right Heater for Your Aquarium (Freshwater & Marine)
Advice

Choosing the Right Heater for Your Aquarium (Freshwater & Marine)

A stable temperature is vital for the health and comfort of your aquarium inhabitants. Whether you keep tropical freshwater fish or sensitive marine corals, the right heater ensures consistency—especially in...

Maintaining and Troubleshooting Your Aquarium Lighting System
Advice

Maintaining and Troubleshooting Your Aquarium Lighting System

A reliable lighting system is crucial to the success of any freshwater aquarium—especially planted tanks. While choosing the right light is the first step, proper maintenance and timely troubleshooting ensure...

Choosing the Right Light Spectrum and Intensity for Your Aquarium
Advice

Choosing the Right Light Spectrum and Intensity for Your Aquarium

Lighting in an aquarium is about much more than just making your tank look good. The spectrum and intensity of light you choose can have a significant effect on the...

Understanding Different Types of Freshwater Aquarium Lighting
Advice

Understanding Different Types of Freshwater Aquarium Lighting

Lighting is one of the most important (and often overlooked) components of a freshwater aquarium. Whether you’re keeping a simple community tank or a thriving aquascape, the type of lighting...

Flow & Circulation Strategies for Aquariums
Advice

Flow & Circulation Strategies for Aquariums

Proper flow and circulation in your aquarium isn’t just about making the water move—it’s essential for a healthy, balanced environment. Whether you’re keeping tropical fish, shrimp, corals, or aquatic plants, understanding...

Aquarium Pump Maintenance & Troubleshooting Guide
Advice

Aquarium Pump Maintenance & Troubleshooting Guide

A healthy aquarium relies on good water circulation—and that means your aquarium pump needs to be working at its best. Whether you’re running a simple freshwater setup or a complex...

Beginner's Guide: What Does an Aquarium Pump Do?
Advice

Beginner's Guide: What Does an Aquarium Pump Do?

If you're new to fishkeeping, you've probably heard that you need a pump for your aquarium. But what exactly does an aquarium pump do, and why is it important? This...

Aquarium Substrate & Ornaments: How to Make Them Work Together
Advice

Aquarium Substrate & Ornaments: How to Make Them Work Together

Learn how to match your aquarium substrate with ornaments for a balanced, beautiful, and fish-friendly aquascape. Tips for gravel, sand, soil, and more.

🧒 Kid-Friendly Aquarium Decorations: Safe, Fun, and Full of Imagination
Advice

🧒 Kid-Friendly Aquarium Decorations: Safe, Fun, and Full of Imagination

Designing an aquarium for kids? Explore safe, colorful, and imaginative decorations that spark curiosity and create a magical underwater world for young aquarists.

Mixing Ornaments and Live Plants: How to Balance Beauty and Function
Advice

Mixing Ornaments and Live Plants: How to Balance Beauty and Function

Want a lush planted tank with stylish ornaments? Learn how to blend live plants with decorations to create a thriving, balanced, and eye-catching aquarium.

Aquarium Backgrounds: The Unsung Hero of Tank Design
Advice

Aquarium Backgrounds: The Unsung Hero of Tank Design

Want to take your aquarium to the next level? Learn how backgrounds enhance your tank’s depth, hide equipment, and complete your aquascape—plus the best types to choose.

🛠️ How to Secure Aquarium Ornaments Safely and Effectively
Advice

🛠️ How to Secure Aquarium Ornaments Safely and Effectively

Don’t let your décor shift or tip over! Learn how to safely secure aquarium ornaments to prevent damage, stress to fish, and layout disruptions.

Aquascaping Mistakes to Avoid When Using Ornaments
Advice

Aquascaping Mistakes to Avoid When Using Ornaments

Don’t let poor decoration choices ruin your aquarium! Learn the most common aquascaping mistakes involving ornaments—and how to avoid them for a balanced, healthy tank.

🧭 How to Choose the Right Size Ornaments for Your Aquarium
Advice

🧭 How to Choose the Right Size Ornaments for Your Aquarium

Struggling with aquarium décor proportions? Learn how to choose the perfect ornament size for your tank and fish, from nano setups to large aquascapes.

📅 Aquarium Decoration Tips by Season: How to Refresh Your Tank All Year Round
Advice

📅 Aquarium Decoration Tips by Season: How to Refresh Your Tank All Year Round

Keep your aquarium looking fresh year-round with seasonal decoration ideas. From spring florals to cozy winter caves, explore ways to style your tank by season.

🧊 Minimalist Aquascaping: How to Use Ornaments Sparingly but Effectively
Advice

🧊 Minimalist Aquascaping: How to Use Ornaments Sparingly but Effectively

Less is more in minimalist aquascaping. Learn how to decorate your aquarium with just a few well-chosen ornaments to create a clean, modern, and visually striking underwater space.

🧪 DIY Aquarium Decor: Safe Homemade Ornament Ideas for Creative Aquarists
Advice

🧪 DIY Aquarium Decor: Safe Homemade Ornament Ideas for Creative Aquarists

Want to personalise your tank? Discover how to make safe, fish-friendly DIY aquarium decorations using household items and non-toxic materials.

Beginner’s Guide to Decorating a Freshwater or Saltwater Aquarium
Advice

Beginner’s Guide to Decorating a Freshwater or Saltwater Aquarium

New to fishkeeping? Learn how to decorate your freshwater or saltwater aquarium step by step. Includes tips on choosing safe ornaments, layout ideas, and species-specific considerations.

🧜 Build a Fantasy Tank: Creative Themed Aquarium Decoration Ideas
Advice

🧜 Build a Fantasy Tank: Creative Themed Aquarium Decoration Ideas

Ready to turn your aquarium into an epic scene? Discover the best themed aquarium ornaments—from pirate ships to mythical ruins—and how to design your own fantasy tank!

🐠 Fish-Specific Ornament Recommendations: What Your Species Really Needs
Advice

🐠 Fish-Specific Ornament Recommendations: What Your Species Really Needs

Not all fish need the same type of decoration. Explore the best aquarium ornaments for bettas, cichlids, plecos, tetras, and more—tailored to their unique behaviours and needs.

How to Clean and Maintain Aquarium Ornaments Without Harming Your Tank
Advice

How to Clean and Maintain Aquarium Ornaments Without Harming Your Tank

Keep your aquarium looking its best! Learn how to clean aquarium ornaments safely without disturbing water chemistry or stressing your fish.

🐟 Best Hiding Spots: Ornaments That Support Fish Behavior and Reduce Stress
Advice

🐟 Best Hiding Spots: Ornaments That Support Fish Behavior and Reduce Stress

Discover the best aquarium ornaments that provide essential hiding spots for your fish. Learn how caves, driftwood, and decorations help reduce stress and promote natural behavior.

How to Create Depth and Dimension Using Aquarium Ornaments
Advice

How to Create Depth and Dimension Using Aquarium Ornaments

Want to make your aquarium look bigger and more dynamic? Learn how to use ornaments and aquascaping techniques to add depth and visual interest to your tank.

Transform Your Tank: The Ultimate Guide to Aquarium Ornaments
Advice

Transform Your Tank: The Ultimate Guide to Aquarium Ornaments

Discover how aquarium ornaments can enhance your fish tank's beauty, create hiding spots for your aquatic pets, and improve tank health. Explore top ornament ideas with Charterhouse Aquatics.

Top 10 Must-Have Christmas Gifts for Aquarium Enthusiasts from Charterhouse Aquatics
Advice

Top 10 Must-Have Christmas Gifts for Aquarium Enthusiasts from Charterhouse Aquatics

The holiday season is the perfect time to delight the aquarist in your life with gifts that enhance their aquatic hobby. Charterhouse Aquatics offers a curated selection of products suitable...

Why Tropical Fish Keeping is the Best Hobby for Beginners
Advice

Why Tropical Fish Keeping is the Best Hobby for Beginners

Diving into the world of tropical fishkeeping is an exciting adventure! Whether you’re a newbie or just looking to refresh your skills, this guide will help you get started on...

How Many Water Changes Will It Take to Beat Algae?
Advice

How Many Water Changes Will It Take to Beat Algae?

Algae: the eternal nemesis of aquarists everywhere. It seems like no matter how hard you try, those green invaders always find a way to take over your beautiful tank. But...

Can I Stop My Fish Digging Up My Plants?
Advice

Can I Stop My Fish Digging Up My Plants?

So, you've got a beautiful aquarium setup, lush green plants, and then BAM – your fish decide to turn your carefully arranged aquascape into their personal playground. If you're frustrated...

Can I Mature a New Aquarium Filter Quickly? Here's How!
Advice

Can I Mature a New Aquarium Filter Quickly? Here's How!

Starting a new aquarium is exciting, but waiting for the filter to mature can be a bit of a drag. The good news is that there are ways to speed...

A Beginner Reefkeeper's Shopping List: Everything You Need to Get Started
Advice

A Beginner Reefkeeper's Shopping List: Everything You Need to Get Started

Starting a reef aquarium can seem like a daunting task, but with the right tools and supplies, it’s a fun and rewarding hobby. Whether you're a complete newbie or transitioning...

Beginners Guide to Successful Fishkeeping: Dive In and Swim Smoothly
Advice

Beginners Guide to Successful Fishkeeping: Dive In and Swim Smoothly

Welcome to the wonderful world of fishkeeping! Whether you're a newbie or just looking to refresh your skills, this guide will help you get started on the right fin. Keeping...

Transform Your Tank with Tropica Aquarium Live Plants
Advice

Transform Your Tank with Tropica Aquarium Live Plants

Aquarium plants do more than just make your tank look beautiful – they play a crucial role in maintaining a healthy environment for your fish. If you're looking to add...

Dive into Aquarium Hardscaping: Tips and Tricks for a Stunning Aquascape
Advice

Dive into Aquarium Hardscaping: Tips and Tricks for a Stunning Aquascape

Are you ready to take your aquarium to the next level? Aquarium hardscaping is an exciting way to transform your tank into a stunning underwater landscape. Whether you’re a newbie...

Keep Your Tank Pristine: When to Change Your Reverse Osmosis Filters
Advice

Keep Your Tank Pristine: When to Change Your Reverse Osmosis Filters

Maintaining clean and pure water in your aquarium is crucial for the health of your fish and corals. One of the best ways to ensure top-notch water quality is by...

Dive Into Coral Fragging: Grow and Share Your Reef Aquarium’s Beauty
Advice

Dive Into Coral Fragging: Grow and Share Your Reef Aquarium’s Beauty

Coral fragging is an exciting aspect of maintaining a reef aquarium. Not only does it allow you to propagate your favorite corals, but it also promotes coral health and diversity...

Why Hikari Aquarium Foods Are the Best Choice for Your Fish
Advice

Why Hikari Aquarium Foods Are the Best Choice for Your Fish

Hey there, fish enthusiasts! Let’s talk about something crucial to your fishy friends’ happiness and health: their diet. If you’re looking for top-notch aquarium food, Hikari is a brand you...

Keeping Your Aquarium Happy While You’re on Holiday
Advice

Keeping Your Aquarium Happy While You’re on Holiday

Hey there, fellow fish lover! Planning a holiday and worried about leaving your aquatic buddies behind? No worries! With a bit of prep, you can ensure your fish stay happy...

Help! My Fish Are Fighting: A Guide to Restoring Peace in Your Tank
Advice

Help! My Fish Are Fighting: A Guide to Restoring Peace in Your Tank

Hey there, fish fans! So, you’ve set up your awesome aquarium, and everything seemed peaceful…until it wasn’t. Suddenly, your fish are acting like they’re in an underwater boxing match. Don’t...

Thinking of Getting a Pet Fish? Here’s What You Need to Know Before Diving In!
Advice

Thinking of Getting a Pet Fish? Here’s What You Need to Know Before Diving In!

Hey there, future fish enthusiast! Considering bringing home a finned friend? Awesome choice! Before you take the plunge, let’s dive into some key facts you should know about keeping pet...

Essential Tips: Avoid These 10 Common Aquarium Mistakes for Beginners
Advice

Essential Tips: Avoid These 10 Common Aquarium Mistakes for Beginners

Are you new to the world of aquariums and excited to set up your own underwater paradise? While starting an aquarium can be incredibly rewarding, it’s important to avoid common...

Adding New Fish to Your Aquarium: A Beginner's Guide
Advice

Adding New Fish to Your Aquarium: A Beginner's Guide

Hey there, fellow fish enthusiasts! So, you've got your tank all set up and you're ready to expand your aquatic family with some new finned buddies. Adding new fish to...

Getting Along Swimmingly: Understanding Aquarium Fish Compatibility
Advice

Getting Along Swimmingly: Understanding Aquarium Fish Compatibility

Hey fellow fish enthusiasts! So, you've got your dream aquarium all set up and you're ready to start adding some new aquatic pals. But before you dive in, let's chat...

Choosing the Right Aquarium Size: Avoiding Overcrowding Issues
Advice

Choosing the Right Aquarium Size: Avoiding Overcrowding Issues

So, you've decided to dive into the wonderful world of aquariums—congrats! Whether you're a newbie or a seasoned aquarist, one of the first decisions you'll face is choosing the right...

Comprehensive Guide to Salifert Aquarium Test Kits
Advice

Comprehensive Guide to Salifert Aquarium Test Kits

Maintaining a healthy and thriving aquarium requires diligent water quality management. Salifert Aquarium Test Kits are a top choice for hobbyists and professionals alike due to their precision, ease of...

Saltwater Aquarium Algae Reactors: Essential Tools for a Healthy Reef Tank
Advice

Saltwater Aquarium Algae Reactors: Essential Tools for a Healthy Reef Tank

Maintaining a clean and healthy reef tank can be challenging, especially when it comes to controlling algae growth. Algae reactors are powerful tools designed to combat this issue by fostering...

What You Need to Know About Reef Aquarium Dosing
Advice

What You Need to Know About Reef Aquarium Dosing

Maintaining a thriving reef aquarium requires more than just basic care; it demands precise control over water chemistry. Reef aquarium dosing is a crucial practice to ensure that corals and...

What You Need to Know About Calcium Reactors
Advice

What You Need to Know About Calcium Reactors

Maintaining stable calcium levels is crucial for the health and growth of corals and other invertebrates in reef aquariums. Calcium reactors offer a reliable and efficient method to ensure consistent...

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