Check out my top 5 DIY essencials
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Top Picks
The EcoPlus 396 powerhead pump is a crucial item for the DIY aquarium owner. This 396 gph pump has been featured several times, including our canister filter and gravel vac videos. The lower intake portion comes with a detachable sponge filter and cover. The intake and output of the pump are 1/4 in. and threaded, perfect for attaching custom pieces found from the hardware store. Use it as a regular internal powerhead for circulation, or as the driving force of your next project. Under $25 bucks and can last for years. A DIY must have!
Silicone
Teflon Tape
1/2 in.Bulk head
PVC Parts
Ryobi Drill
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ViaAqua Heaters
ViaAqua makes an exeptional heater for a great price. A built-in thermostat with temperature read out will help you maintain that perfect 75-80 F aquarium. Its solid construction and ease of adjustment allows you to sit back and spend time on other more important aspects of your hobby.
When keeping a tank full of live plants, having a nutrient rich substrate can make a world of difference. Eco-Complete provides a macro and micronutrient rich planting medium that will benefit all heavy root feeding aquatic plants.
Powerheads are a DIY aquarists best friend. I personally like the pumps made by Aquatop because they are versitile and reliable for a great price. Your only limit is your imagination when it comes to constructing a vast array of different mechanical and biological filters using this as the driving force!
The SunSun JVP-110 is an inexpensive and reliable 528 gph wavemaker pump perfect for tanks 20 - 55 gallons in size. I often dislike the strong pin point flow coming from traditional powerheads, these SunSun pumps create a wider range of water displacement without ruining the calm feel of my tanks.
Many aquatic plants require a decent amount of iron for healthy growth, stable activity and maintaining beautiful red coloring of leaves. Adding laterite to the base layer of your substrate will help give plants the iron they need to thrive!