Have you been thinking about getting a small fish tank for your home or office but aren't sure about the weight? A 5 gallon tank is one of the most popular starter sizes, but how heavy will it be once it's filled with water, gravel, and decorations?
In this article, we'll break down the average weights of all the components that make up a typical 5 gallon fish setup. By the end, you'll know exactly how much weight to expect when setting up your new nano reef or betta bowl. Let's get started!
A Look Inside a Standard 5 Gallon Tank
A 5 gallon glass aquarium on its own usually weighs between 7 to 10 pounds empty. Most common brands like Tetra, Aqueon, and MarineLand fall within this weight range.
The tank is made of glass which gives it some heft while still keeping it lightweight enough to move around. Plastic tanks would weigh even less at around 5 pounds or less without water.
Adding the Substrate
A basic gravel or sand substrate is one of the first items added to a new tank. On average, a 5 gallon tank uses around 1-2 pounds of substrate. Pebbles tend to weigh a bit more than playsand.
Some decorative substrates like Fluval Stratum plant substrate pack more weight at around 3 pounds for a 5 gallon amount. So plan for 1-3 pounds added by the substrate.
Decorations and Hardscape
Decorating options vary widely depending on the fish and plant choice. A basic setup may include only a few river rocks weighing less than 1 pound total.
A planted tank or reef with driftwood, rocks, coral skeletons and other decor could add 5 pounds or more of hardscape items. Live plants also contribute some additional weight.
Heating and Filtration Equipment
Most 5 gallon tanks include a simple hang-on-back or sponge filter that weighs around 1 pound including biomedia and tubing. A basic submersible heater adds another 3/4 pound on average.
Advanced reef tanks use canister filters, protein skimmers, chillers and lighting rigs that greatly increase the equipment load. But a basic fish tank setup keeps filtration lightweight.
The Big Kahuna - Water Weight
The water itself is where the real weight comes into play. A standard 5.5 gallon aquarium holds about 5 US gallons of water when filled to the rim. Each gallon of water weighs approximately 8.34 pounds.
So 5 gallons of water alone adds a hefty 41.7 pounds to the total weight. Remember - that's just the water. All the other components are on top of that baseline figure.
Putting It All Together
Let's tally up a typical weight estimate for a fully set up 5 gallon freshwater or nano reef aquarium:
- Glass Tank: 8 lbs
- Gravel/Sand Substrate: 2 lbs
- Decorations/Hardscape: 5 lbs
- Filter & Heater: 2 lbs
- 5 Gallons of Water: 41.7 lbs
Total Estimated Weight = 58.7 lbs
A 5 gallon saltwater tank may weigh a couple pounds more with additional equipment. But on average, you're looking at around 60 pounds for a typical complete 5 gallon fish tank.
Weight Distribution and Lifting Concerns
The good news is that aquarium weight is nicely distributed across the broad, flat bottom surface area of the tank. This prevents stress on any one point like lifting a heavy bucket.
Even a 60 lb filled 5 gallon tank feels lighter than expected when lifted with care from the bottom edges. Two average adults working together experience no issues moving it around safely.
For one person lifting, be sure to keep the tank close to your body for stability as you stand up straight. And never attempt to lift along the long edges - always support from the bottom. With care, a 5 gallon tank poses no serious lifting concerns.
Comparisons to Other Tank Sizes
At 60 lbs fully setup, a 5 gallon aquarium is relatively lightweight compared to larger tank sizes. Here's a quick rundown of average weights:
- 10 gallon tank: 15-17 lbs empty, 75-80 lbs full
- 20 gallon tall tank: 22-25 lbs empty, 110-115 lbs full
- 29 gallon tank: 28-32 lbs empty, 145-150 lbs full
- 55 gallon tank: 38-42 lbs empty, 230-240 lbs full
- 100+ gallon tank: 55+ lbs empty, 500+ lbs full
So while a 5 gallon tank may seem daunting weight-wise at first compared to say, a simple 1 gallon betta bowl, it's actually one of the lighter tank options available. For small spaces or DIY fishkeeping, the 5 gallon size is very manageable from a lifting standpoint.
Lifting Tips and Techniques
Here are some best practices for safely lifting and moving a full 5 gallon aquarium:
- Use proper lifting technique - knees bent, back straight, lift with legs. Avoid twisting.
- Have a friend help - each of you support the tank from opposite bottom corners or edges.
- Test the weight empty first before filling to get a feel for it.
- Drain some water for moving if needed - top it back up once in place.
- Place the tank as close to the edge as possible when lifting from a table or stand.
- Use aquarium safe dollies, carts or moving pads for transporting longer distances.
- Consider a enclosed tank base or rimmed lid for added stability if moving frequently.
- Don't rush - take your time, be steady and focus on proper form above all else.
Follow these tips and lifting a 5 gallon full tank poses no greater risks than a heavy bucket of water. Just take precautions and leverage a spotter whenever possible. Safety should be the top priority over haste.
H4: FAQs About 5 Gallon Tank Weight
Here are some common questions answered:
Q: Is a 5 gallon tank too heavy for me to handle alone?
A: No, not at all. At around 60 pounds total, a 5 gallon tank distributes weight well and feels lighter than expected. Just use care and proper lifting techniques.
Q: Will my desk or shelf support the weight?
A: Yes, in most cases. Distribute the weight evenly and don't overload a small surface. Wood or particle board may require additional bracing. Glass-topped surfaces like some Ikea tables are perfect.
Q: What's the lightest setup I can do in 5 gallons?
A: A Walstad-style planted tank uses inert gravel or sand only with low tech plants weighing around 50 pounds total very comfortably.
Q: Can I lift the tank with just one hand?
A: No, always use both hands and keep the tank close for full control and stability. Don't attempt one-handed lifting.
Q: Will my young kids be able to help move it?
A: Only with direct adult guidance and supervision. The weight is heavy for small children. Emphasize team lifting at all times.
In summary, while a 5 gallon tank has some noticeable weight when full, it remains one of the most practical and manageable starter sizes for fishkeeping. Proper procedures ensure safe and easy mobility around the home or office.
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