FAQs
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What Is the Best Aquarium Setup for Beginners?
If you’re new to fishkeeping, we recommend starting with a freshwater tropical aquarium. These tanks are easier to maintain than saltwater systems and offer a wide variety of colourful and hardy fish. A typical beginner setup includes:
- Glass or acrylic aquarium (minimum 60 litres)
- Internal or external filtration system
- Heater to maintain 24–26°C for tropical species
- Aquarium LED lighting
- Substrate and aquatic plants
- Starter-friendly fish like tetras, guppies, or mollies
We supply complete beginner kits, with optional delivery and setup services anywhere in Dublin and surrounding counties.
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How Much Does It Cost to Set Up an Aquarium in Ireland?
The cost depends on the type of aquarium and your preferences. Here’s a breakdown:
- Freshwater tropical aquarium setup: From €200–€800
- Coldwater tanks: Starting from €150
- Marine reef tanks: Typically €1,000–€5,000+
- Custom aquariums: Price on application, based on design and size
We offer bespoke packages and flexible payment options for larger builds. All our equipment is sourced from trusted aquarium brands like Red Sea, AquaOne, and TMC.
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How Often Should I Clean My Aquarium?
Proper maintenance is key to keeping your fish healthy. For most tanks, we recommend:
- Weekly partial water changes of 10–20%
- Filter maintenance every 2–4 weeks
- Glass cleaning with algae scrapers as needed
- Substrate vacuuming to remove waste build-up
Marine aquariums require more precise water parameter control, including testing for ammonia, nitrites, nitrates, pH, and salinity. We offer maintenance plans across Dublin and Leinster, including water testing and livestock health checks.
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What Fish Can I Keep Together in an Aquarium?
Choosing compatible species is essential. Here’s a quick compatibility guide:
Tropical Freshwater Fish
- Tetras, guppies, mollies, platies, corydoras, and gouramis usually mix well.
- Avoid aggressive species like cichlids, unless kept in species-specific setups.
Coldwater Fish
- Goldfish, white cloud minnows, and weather loaches do well together.
Marine Fish
- Clownfish, gobies, blennies, chromis, and firefish are reef-safe.
- Ensure compatibility with invertebrates and coral species.
Our team offers personalised stocking plans to match your aquarium's volume, filtration capacity, and lighting.
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Do You Install Custom Aquariums in Dublin and Nationwide?
Yes, we specialise in custom-built aquariums for homes, offices, schools, and commercial premises. Our service includes:
- On-site consultation and 3D design render
- High-quality glass or acrylic builds
- Bespoke cabinetry to match your interior
- Advanced filtration systems (sump, UV, protein skimmers)
- Professional delivery and installation
We install across Dublin, Wicklow, Meath, Kildare, and nationwide upon request. From wall-mounted aquariums to large feature displays, we offer stunning aquascaping tailored to your vision.
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What Is the Difference Between a Marine and Freshwater Aquarium?
Freshwater Aquariums
- Easier to maintain
- Cheaper equipment and livestock
- Ideal for beginners
Marine Aquariums- Require saltwater mix and specific filtration
- Host a wider range of vibrant fish, corals, and invertebrates
- Ideal for advanced hobbyists
We stock everything you need to get started, including RO water, marine salt, live rock, and pre-mixed saltwater.
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Can I Buy Fish Online in Ireland?
Yes, we offer a live fish delivery service across Ireland. All livestock is packed safely with oxygen and insulation for secure overnight shipping. Our fish are:
- Tank-raised and health-checked
- Acclimatised to aquarium life
- Sourced from ethical breeders and farms
We deliver marine, tropical, coldwater fish, invertebrates, and corals direct to your door. We also offer click and collect from our Ballymount store.
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Do You Offer Aquarium Maintenance Services?
Yes, our professional aquarium maintenance services are available throughout Dublin and surrounding counties. We service:
- Tropical freshwater tanks
- Coldwater tanks
- Marine reef systems
- Custom installations
Our service plans include:
- Routine water changes
- Livestock monitoring
- Filter and pump cleaning
- Water testing and rebalancing
- Emergency callouts for tank issues
We provide scheduled monthly maintenance or one-off deep cleans.
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What Should I Feed My Fish?
A balanced diet is essential for health and colour. We recommend:
- Tropical flake or pellet food
- Frozen foods like bloodworm, brine shrimp, and daphnia
- Marine fish diets with spirulina and krill
- Supplemental feeds for coral and invertebrates
We stock leading brands such as Vitalis, Ocean Nutrition, and Tetra. Our team will advise on the best feeding routine based on your species.
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Do You Sell Aquariums and Accessories in Dublin?
Yes, we carry a full range of aquarium tanks, stands, filters, lighting, heaters, decorations, and fish food at our Ballymount showroom. Popular products include:
- Nano tanks
- High-end reef setups
- Cabinet aquariums
- Custom-built systems
- Complete starter kits
All accessories are available for nationwide delivery or collection. Our staff are happy to guide you through selecting the right setup.Do You Stock Coral, Live Rock and Marine Invertebrates?
Yes, we are one of the few marine aquatics specialists in Ireland stocking:
- Soft corals, LPS, and SPS corals
- Live rock and reef base
- Cleaner shrimp, snails, and hermit crabs
- Anemones and feather dusters
We quarantine and condition all coral and invertebrate livestock before sale to ensure high survival rates in your tank.
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Why Choose Reef Lounge Aquatics?
- Decades of experience in the Irish aquarium industry
- Premium livestock from ethical sources
- Fully equipped showroom in Ballymount, Dublin
- Expert customer support and guidance
- Nationwide delivery for equipment and livestock
- Custom tank design, installation and maintenance
Whether you're building a dream reef tank or starting your first tropical setup, we’re your go-to aquatics specialists in Ireland.
Can't find your question?
Call us now: 085 715 9044