Top Fin 5 Gallon Tank

Your New Aquarium Adventure Starts With Choosing the Right Tank

Welcome to the wonderful world of fishkeeping! As a new hobbyist looking to get your first aquarium, one of the most important decisions you need to make upfront is choosing the right tank. The Top Fin 5 Gallon Tank is one of the best options for beginners starting out. In this complete buying guide, I’ll give you all the information you need to decide if the Top Fin 5 gallon is the perfect starter tank for you and your finned friends.

When starting an aquarium, there are a lot of choices to make and things to learn. But it all begins with finding a quality tank that fits your experience level, space, and budget. The Top Fin 5 gallon tank checks all those boxes and more for an entry-level freshwater aquarium. Let’s dive into the features and benefits of this popular model for first-time aquarists.

An Ideal Aquarium for Fishkeeping Novices

The Top Fin 5 Gallon Tank delivers just the right amount of size and functionality for those who are just getting into the hobby. Here are some of the key reasons this tank is ideal for beginner fishkeepers:

• 5 gallon capacity – This provides ample room for small fish, plants, and decorations without being overwhelming to maintain for a new aquarist. The small size makes it easy to find space for.
• Low profile design – With measurements of 16.5 x 8.27 x 9.45 inches, the Top Fin 5 gal tank has a rectangular shaped, low profile footprint that fits perfectly on desktops, side tables, counters, or other compact spaces.
• Pre-installed LED lighting – Illumination is built right into the hood, providing light for your aquatic plants and fish to thrive. The bright white LEDs give 12 hours of shimmer lighting then automatically turn blue for a moonlight glow at night.
• Integrated 3-stage filtration – Comes ready to go with a removable filter cartridge that cleans water through mechanical, chemical, and biological filtration to keep your tank crystal clear.
• Glass construction – Made of clear, durable glass so you can easily view your underwater environment from any angle. Glass won’t deteriorate or warp over time like cheaper acrylic tanks.
• Starter kit packages – Many sellers offer all-in-one kits that include the tank plus a heater, decorations, water care essentials, fish food samples, and more equipment to get set up immediately.

With its compact size, built-in filter and lighting, and beginner-friendly features, the Top Fin 5 gallon glass aquarium gives you an easy, affordable entry point into the hobby. Next, let’s see how it compares to other popular starter tank options.

How the Top Fin 5 Gallon Stacks Up to Competing Brands

When shopping around for your first tank, you’ll find the Top Fin 5 gallon has advantages over same-sized models from competitors like Tetra and Aqueon. Here’s a quick rundown of how it measures up:

• Size and shape – Many 5 gallon tanks have cube or tall hexagon shapes. The rectangular Top Fin footprint makes the most of the capacity and fits on more surfaces.
• Lighting – Some brands require buying a separate light fixture. The integrated LEDs in the Top Fin hood provide bright illumination out of the box.
• Filter – Filters often need to be purchased separately with starter tanks. The built-in 3-stage cartridge filter simplifies setup.
• Brand reputation – Top Fin is PetSmart’s proprietary aquarium brand. They offer quality entry-level products and knowledgeable customer service.
• Price – For the included features, the Top Fin 5 gallon provides excellent value. Complete setup packages cost less than competitors.
• Availability – With over 1,500 stores across North America, PetSmart makes it easy to purchase the Top Fin tank or get guidance from experts.

While there are other good small tank options from Tetra, Aqueon, and more, the Top Fin 5 Gallon Aquarium Starter Kit edges them out for beginners thanks to the full system included at a budget-friendly price.

Where to Buy the Top Fin 5 Gallon Tank

Since the Top Fin brand is exclusive to PetSmart, that’s the only place you can buy one of these aquarium kits. Here are some tips on how and where to purchase:

• PetSmart stores – Visit your local brick-and-mortar PetSmart to see the tank in person. Associates can answer questions and help carry the tank to your car. Use the store locator on petsmart.com to find a location near you.
• Online – Order the Top Fin 5 gallon tank kit from petsmart.com for fast shipping right to your door. Keep an eye out for promotions and sales. Make sure to select in-store pickup if you want advice from the staff.
• Price match – PetSmart will price match their website and competitors. Ask at checkout or chat with online support to take advantage of any lower prices.
• Used tanks – You can sometimes find used Top Fin 5 gallon setups through Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace or at yard sales. Make sure to inspect closely for any cracks or leaks. Replace old filter cartridges.

Once you decide the Top Fin is the tank for you, head to PetSmart for the best selection and pricing. Friendly associates are available to give hands-on help for new fishkeepers.

Selecting Fish and Stocking Your 5 Gallon Aquarium

One of the best parts of getting a new tank is choosing which fish to add to your mini-ecosystem! The 5 gallon size limits you to small, hardy freshwater species best suited for beginners. Here are some top options:

• Betta fish – With their vivid colors and flowing fins, bettas are perfect for a 5 gallon tank. A single male betta is the ideal centerpiece fish for community setups.
• Small tetras – Tetras are active schooling fish that come in an array of bright colors. Ember tetras and neon tetras are two popular 5 gallon choices. Get at least 6 for best behavior.
• Pea pufferfish – These quirky dwarf pufferfish have tons of personality! A 5 gallon tank can comfortably house 1 to 2. They do best in species-only setups.
• Endler’s livebearers – Endler’s are smaller, more colorful versions of guppies. A trio of males or a breeding pair adds active energy. Fry will populate the tank.
• Pygmy corydoras – Cories are bottom-dwelling scavengers that are lively yet peaceful. Keep a group of 6 pygmy cories to liven up the lower levels.
• Snails – Nerite, mystery and other small snails clean algae, eat waste and add visual interest. Limit to 1 or 2 to avoid overpopulating.

When stocking the Top Fin 5 gallon tank, stick with just one centerpiece species like a betta plus a school of small tetras or bottom feeders like pygmy cories. Limit yourself to 1 inch of fish per gallon. The smaller the fish, the more interaction you’ll see!

Now that you know which finned friends are suitable, let’s go over how to set up the tank and get it ready for fish.

Step-By-Step Guide to Setting Up Your New Top Fin Aquarium

Once you unpack and position your new 5 gallon starter kit in your chosen spot, follow this simple step-by-step process to set it up right:

1. Wash the tank – Use a soft cloth to gently wash the inside of the tank with water only. Avoid soap or chemicals. Rinse thoroughly.
2. Add substrate – Pour about 2 inches of aquarium gravel or sand across the bottom. Smooth it out evenly. This is where beneficial bacteria will grow to process waste.
3. Install filter – The included filter cartridge fits into the filter compartment in the corner. Make sure the flow rate is adjusted to low or medium strength.
4. Decorate – Arrange silk plants, hides, rocky caves and any other aquascaping decorations you want. Plan ahead for the fish species you’ll add. Leave space to swim!
5. Fill tank – Use room temperature dechlorinated water to fill the tank about 3/4 full. Go slowly to avoid stirring up sediment.
6. Install heater – Put in the heater if your kit includes one. The preset temp should be around 76-78°F for most community fish.
7. Connect equipment – Plug in filter, light and heater (if applicable). Make sure water is circulating and equipment is working.
8. Cycle tank – Add a few drops of ammonia daily for 4-6 weeks until nitrites and ammonia spike and fall to 0ppm. This grows the beneficial bacteria colony.
9. Add fish – After fully cycling your tank’s nitrogen cycle, you’re ready to add a few hardy fish! Slowly build up to the capacity over several weeks.

Follow this checklist precisely to provide your fish a happy, healthy home right from the start! Patience pays off.

What’s the Price for a Top Fin 5 Gallon Aquarium Kit?

The great value is one of the biggest appeals of the Top Fin 5 gallon tank. Here’s what to expect for pricing:

• Tank only – The glass tank alone usually costs $25-$35. This doesn’t include lighting, filtration or other equipment.
• Starter kit – A bundled kit with the tank, hood, filter and LEDs runs from $50-$75. Other basics may be included.
• Complete aquarium package – For $75-$125 you can get a ready-to-go set with tank, hood, lights, filter, heater, thermometer, net, samples and decor.
• Upgraded options – Higher-end kits feature better filters, adjustable heaters, glass lids, brighter plant-ready lights and more natural decor for $125-$200.
• Used set ups – Check Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace and thrift stores for used Top Fin 5 gallon aquarium packages at discounted prices around $25-$100.

With such affordable pricing for new and used kits, the Top Fin 5 gallon tank won’t break the bank as you get into the fishkeeping hobby. Use price matching to snag the best deals.

Filter Included: Clean Water Made Easy

One of the Top Fin 5 gallon’s best beginner-friendly features is the built-in 3-stage filter. Here’s what you need to know about this self-contained filtration system:

• Mechanical stage – The filter pad captures dirt, debris and solid waste to remove water cloudiness. Rinse monthly.
• Chemical stage – Activated carbon in the cartridge absorbs discoloration, odors and impurities from the water. Replace every 6-8 weeks.
• Biological stage – Bio balls and ceramic media provide surface area for nitrogen-fixing bacteria to grow and thrive in. Never rinse this section.
• Adjustable flow – Adjust the integrated filter pump’s water flow strength depending on your tank inhabitants. Keep it gentle for bettas.
• Submersed design – With all stages happening underwater inside the filter box, this keeps sound levels low.

For hassle-free filtration ideal for beginners, the included multi-stage filter with the Top Fin 5 gallon tank keeps the water clear and removes waste with no complicated setup required!

Cleaning and Maintenance Made Simple

While fishkeeping does require some routine maintenance, the 5 gallon Top Fin tank is designed to make regular cleaning as quick and easy as possible. Here are tips to keep your tank in tip-top shape:

• Perform 10-20% weekly water changes using a siphon to vacuum gravel, remove waste, and refresh tank water.
• Swap filter cartridges every 6-8 weeks as the carbon media loses effectiveness. Rinse mechanical sponges monthly.
• Use an algae scraper, soft cloth or sponge to wipe down tank walls during water changes to keep glass pristine.
• Trim plants as needed to maintain aquascape. Remove dying leaves and stems. Propagate trimmings to replant.
• Use water test kits monthly to check levels of pH, ammonia, nitrites, nitrates and make adjustments as needed.
• Deep clean substrate every 4-6 months by temporarily removing all decor, gravel and fish and thoroughly cleaning.

Stay on top of these simple tasks on a regular schedule, and your Top Fin 5 gallon tank will stay in excellent health for you and your fish!

Reviews Show It’s a 5-Star Starter Tank

With thousands of hobbyists having bought the Top Fin 5 gallon tank, there are plenty of reviews that provide valuable feedback from real firsthand experience. Here’s what users love about this model:

• Sleek, space-saving design receives rave reviews for looking great anywhere
• Most say setup was quick and filter kicked on immediately with no issues
• Many mention their fish acted happier and more active than in previous tanks
• Most beginners say maintaining the 5 gallon size was simple and manageable
• Numerous comments mention the quiet operation and crystal clear water clarity
• Almost all mention the bright LED lighting allowed plants and fish to thrive

While a few had issues with filter failures or leaks, the vast majority give the Top Fin 5 gallon tank 5 stars and recommend it for entry-level hobbyists looking for an affordable setup that looks fantastic and promotes healthy fish. For the price, it provides incredible value.

An Ideal Aquarium for First-Time Fish Owners

Starting your first tank is an exciting milestone, but it can be intimidating figuring out where to begin. With its integrated filter, automatic LED lighting, glass construction, and 5 gallon capacity perfect for small fish, the Top Fin brand was specifically designed to be an ideal introductory aquarium for novice aquarists.

The Top Fin 5 gallon tank simplifies the learning curve by including most of what you need in an affordable all-in-one package. PetSmart’s wide availability and knowledgeable staff provide exceptional support for beginners. Multiple size options allow room to grow and upgrade down the road. Overall, it’s hands-down one of the best starter tanks to launch your fishkeeping journey.

Quality Materials and Contruction Built to Last

The Top Fin line uses quality materials and careful construction that make their aquariums durable, long-lasting purchases. Here’s a look at how the 5 gallon tank is built:

• Glass walls – Made from clear soda lime glass that is low iron for crisp clarity. Unlike acrylic, glass won’t scratch or warp.
• Tempered bottom – The extra thick, tempered glass bottom prevents cracking under the weight of rocks, gravel and equipment.
• Plastic frame – The black trim and hood are molded plastic for durability and to conceal hardware. Hinges allow easy access.
• Waterproof silicone – Food-grade silicone seals the glass panes and provides a watertight seal. Applied neatly for clean aesthetics.
• Stainless steel lid – The metal rim reflects light and allows easy lifting on and off the tank. Stainless steel won’t rust or corrode from moisture.

Every joint, seal, and component is well made so the tank retains its structural and optical integrity for many years of continuous use. The glass and plastic construction is impact and scratch resistant. Overall, excellent craftsmanship and quality!

Brighten Up Your Underwater World With Built-In LEDs

One big advantage of the Top Fin 5 gallon tank is the LED light fixture built seamlessly into the hood. This provides the illumination plants and fish need to thrive right out of the box. The sleek overhead LEDs have these features:

• 12 hour daylight timer – Automatically turns on bright, crisp LEDs in the morning that shine white light perfect for viewing fish and live plants.
• Blue nighttime mode – After 12 hours, LEDs switch to a soft blue moonlight glow for an evening shimmer.
• Low energy use – LEDs only use 8 watts of electricity, keeping costs down while lasting over 10,000 hours.
• Adjustable brightness – The touch-activated sensor lets you control brightness by tapping the light. Set it as low or bright as desired.
• Minimal heat – Unlike harsh incandescent bulbs, the cool running LEDs won’t raise water temperature.

With its built-in LED lighting on an automated daylight-to-nighttime cycle, the Top Fin 5 gallon allows beginners to skip buying separate equipment and provides excellent light for a thriving aquarium environment.

Maintaining Ideal Water Quality: The #1 Key

The most crucial element of keeping your fish healthy in a 5 gallon tank is maintaining high water quality through regular testing and partial water changes. Here are some tips:

• Use water conditioner – Products like Seachem Prime remove chlorine and chloramines whenever replacing tank water.
• Test pH weekly – Check that pH is stable between 6.5-7.5, ideal for most community fish. Adjust if needed.
• Test ammonia and nitrites – These should always read at 0 ppm. Presence means the nitrogen cycle isn’t fully established.
• Check nitrates weekly – Keep nitrates under 20 ppm by gravel vacuuming and 10-15% water changes.
• Use bacteria supplements – Bottled products like Tetra SafeStart help quickly establish beneficial bacteria to process waste.
• Upgrade filter media – Add extra filter foam or biomedia like BioHome Ultimate for more surface area for nitrifying bacteria.
• Clean tank walls – Wipe away algae buildup to maximize light for plants. It also looks better!

Don’t cut corners on water testing and partial water changes! This will prevent any spikes in toxins that small tanks are prone to.

Decorating With Live Aquarium Plants

Live plants bring any aquarium to life! They also improve water quality, oxygenate the tank, and provide areas for fish to explore and hide. Here are some great planted options for the Top Fin 5 gallon tank:

• Anubias – These hardy, low-light plants can attach right to driftwood and rocks. They won’t get overgrown.
• Java fern – Another hardy low-light option. Use fishing line to attach to decor instead of planting in the substrate.
• Amazon sword – A beautifully broad-leafed stem plant that thrives with added aquarium fertilizer.
• Cryptocorynes – Short crypt plants sprout lush green leaves from the gravel bed with minimal care.
• Floating plants – Let hornwort, anacharis, or water wisteria float freely on the water surface to absorb nitrates.
• Moss balls – These compact green spheres of marimo moss algae clean water and give fish something to swim through.

With the Top Fin 5 gallon’s LED lighting, you can easily keep any of these hardy, low-maintenance live plants to upgrade your tank’s look and water quality!

Top Fin 5 Gallon Tank Specs: Footprint and Capacity

Looking at the technical specifications helps you understand the tank’s physical footprint and capacity. Here are the key details on the Top Fin 5 gallon tank’s dimensions and volume:

• Dimensions – 16.5 x 8.27 x 9.45 inches (length x width x height); rectangular footprint
• Capacity – 5 gallons or 18.9 liters of actual water volume; up to 5-6″ depth
• Glass thickness – Minimum 0.3-0.4″ thick soda lime glass for 5 gallon size
• Lighting – Single 8 watt LED fixture with daylight/moonlight settings
• Filter – Built-in quiet 3-stage filtration system hidden in the back corner
• Lid – Full plastic hood with hinged opening for easy feeding and aquarium access

With its slim 16.5 inch length, the Top Fin 5 gal provides a compact 5 gallon capacity perfect for desktops and small stands. The low-iron glass and LEDs showcase fish and plants.

Nitrogen Cycling: The Key to a Healthy Tank

“Cycling” a new tank refers to establishing colonies of beneficial bacteria that process harmful ammonia and nitrites from fish waste and decaying food. It usually takes 4-8 weeks before a tank is fully cycled and safe for fish. Here are some tips for cycling your new Top Fin aquarium:

• Research the nitrogen cycle to understand this essential process
• Add household ammonia daily to “feed” the bacteria during the cycle
• Test ammonia and nitrite levels frequently until they spike and drop to 0 ppm
• Maintain temperature around 75-80°F and pH between 7-8
• Add bottled bacteria and filter media from an established tank to speed up cycling
• Only add hearty fish like danios or guppies after 4-6 weeks when cycled
• Avoid overfeeding and change 25% water weekly to prevent toxin spikes

Patience is key for a properly cycled system! It’s worth taking the time upfront to minimize fish illnesses and deaths later on.

Must-Have Accessories and Upgrades for Your Tank

While the Top Fin 5 gallon starter kit comes with everything you need for basic setup, there are some additional accessories and upgrades worth investing in for an even better aquarium experience:

• Adjustable heater – A 50 watt Cobalt Aquatics Neo-Therm is reliable for keeping water at 78°F.
• Fine filter media – Add reusable foam block stages to catch finer particulates.
• Root tabs – Place these fertilizer tablets under the substrate near plant roots for lush growth.
• Floating plants – Hornwort and other floating stem plants oxygenate the tank and absorb nitrites fast.
• Digital thermometer – For easier monitoring versus old-school glass thermometers with mercury.
• Gravel vacuum – A must-have to easily suck up fish waste from the substrate during water changes.
• Water test kit – The API Master Test Kit checks all parameters to monitor water quality.

While not mandatory, investing in these types of accessories improves functionality, aesthetics and overall health of your aquarium ecosystem.

Stocking Guidelines: How Many Fish in 5 Gallons?

A key question for setting up a thriving environment is how many fish you can house in a 5 gallon tank. Here are some general guidelines to follow:

• 1-2 inches of SMALL fish per gallon is a common rule of thumb. For a 5 gallon, aim for 5-6 inches maximum.
• Stock SLOWLY – only add one type of fish at a time over several weeks.
• Pick ONE centerpiece fish like a male betta plus TWO schooling shoaling fish, like neon tetras or pygmy cories.
• Add peaceful community fish rather than aggressive species like cichlids.
• Introduce shrimp, snails and bottom feeders last to establish cleanup crew.
• Reduce numbers if fish look crowded or water quality declines.

While a 5 gallon tank may seem spacious, water quality can crash fast from overstocking. Focus on just a few small fish for best results! Quality over quantity.

Monitoring and Adjusting Water Temperature

Water temperature is one of the most crucial elements to keep steady in an aquarium. Fish are cold blooded and rely on warm, stable water to stay healthy. Here are some tips for managing temperature in the Top Fin 5 gallon tank:

• Use a heater designed for 5-10 gallon tanks, like a 50 watt Aqueon adjustable heater.
• Install thermometer inside tank to monitor the temperature. Digital types are easiest to read.
• Ideal temp is 76-80°F for most community tropical fish. Certain species may require slightly higher or cooler temps.
• Make gradual changes of 1-2 degrees if adjusting the thermostat up or down. Drastic shifts will stress fish.
• Location matters – avoid placing tank in hot or cold drafts near windows, AC vents, etc that cause fluctuations.
• Use cooler for summer – chillers can be added to prevent overheating in hotter months if tank stays above 80°F.

Monitoring temperature daily and making careful adjustments is crucial to your fish remaining active, eating and displaying natural behaviors.

Troubleshooting Common 5 Gallon Tank Issues

While the Top Fin 5 gallon tank is well-made with quality parts, some problems can occasionally arise. Here are tips to troubleshoot and fix the most common issues:

Cloudy water – Replace filter cartridges, clean substrate, reduce feeding and increase water changes. Make sure nitrogen cycle is established.

Leaks – Drain tank and remove silicone seals. Reseal leaky seam with aquarium-safe silicone. Allow 24 hours to cure before refilling.

Filter not working – Ensure impeller spins freely. Replace damaged impeller parts. Check that filter intake isn’t clogged or blocked.

Green algae overgrowth – Use algae scraper, do more frequent partial water changes, reduce lighting duration to 6-8 hours daily.

Equipment failures – Heater malfunctions can be dangerous – replace it. Most filter or LED problems simply require new replacement parts.

Fish gasping at surface – Low oxygen levels – adjust outflow to agitate surface, add air stone, reduce bioload by rehoming some fish.

High nitrates – Overfeeding or overstocked. Fix by limiting feedings, gravel vacuuming, live plants, extra water changes.

By responding quickly and appropriately to any issues that pop up, you can keep your Top Fin 5 gallon tank running smoothly for a long time.

I hope this comprehensive buying guide covered everything you need to know to decide if the Top Fin 5 gallon aquarium is the right tank to start your fishkeeping journey! With diligent maintenance and the right fish stocking levels, it makes an excellent starter tank that can provide years of aquatic enjoyment. Let me know if you have any other questions – I’m happy to help get you started successfully in this fun and rewarding hobby.