So, you’re wondering, “How much is a 55 gallon fish tank?” The cost of a 55-gallon fish tank itself can range from $60 to $150, but the total 55 gallon aquarium setup price will include many other essential items, easily pushing the final bill into the several hundred dollar range. This article will break down all the factors influencing the 55 gallon fish tank cost and help you budget effectively for your new aquatic home.
Deciphering the 55 Gallon Aquarium Price
When you’re looking at buying a 55 gallon tank, the price isn’t just for the glass or acrylic box. It’s the starting point for a whole ecosystem. The 55 gallon aquarium price can vary based on several key aspects, including the material, brand, and whether it’s sold as a standalone tank or part of a kit.
Material Matters: Glass vs. Acrylic
One of the most significant factors in the 55 gallon fish tank cost is the material.
55 Gallon Glass Tank Cost
- Pros:
- Scratch-resistant: Glass is much harder to scratch than acrylic. This is a big plus if you have active fish or tend to bump against the tank.
- Clarity: High-quality glass offers excellent clarity, allowing for a crystal-clear view of your underwater world.
- Stiffness: Glass is rigid and doesn’t bow outwards, even when filled with water. This means you don’t need as much bracing, though larger tanks still benefit from it.
- Cost: Generally, glass tanks are more affordable than their acrylic counterparts. The 55 gallon glass tank cost will typically be lower.
- Cons:
- Weight: Glass is significantly heavier than acrylic. This can make moving and setting up the tank a more challenging task.
- Brittleness: While scratch-resistant, glass can shatter if dropped or subjected to a sharp impact.
- Curved fronts: Many glass tanks have a traditional rectangular shape. While some have slight bow-fronts, they are less common than with acrylic.
55 Gallon Acrylic Aquarium Price
- Pros:
- Lightweight: Acrylic is much lighter than glass, making it easier to transport and set up, especially for a large tank like a 55-gallon.
- Impact-resistant: Acrylic is much less likely to shatter than glass. It’s more forgiving if accidentally bumped.
- Shapes: Acrylic can be molded into various shapes, including attractive bow-fronts and corner tanks, offering more aesthetic options.
- Cons:
- Scratch-prone: This is the biggest drawback. Acrylic scratches much more easily than glass. Using abrasive materials for cleaning will quickly dull its clarity.
- Cost: The 55 gallon acrylic aquarium price is typically higher than a comparable glass tank.
- Flexibility: Acrylic can bow outwards slightly under the pressure of water, which is why acrylic tanks often have more substantial bracing.
- Clarity over time: While clear initially, minor scratches can affect the long-term clarity.
Table 1: Material Comparison for 55 Gallon Tanks
| Feature | 55 Gallon Glass Tank | 55 Gallon Acrylic Tank |
|---|---|---|
| Scratch Resistance | High | Low |
| Weight | Heavy | Lightweight |
| Impact Resistance | Low (brittle) | High |
| Cost | Lower | Higher |
| Shape Options | Mostly Rectangular | More Diverse (bow-fronts) |
| Maintenance | Easier cleaning | Careful cleaning needed |
Brand Influence on 55 Gallon Fish Tank Prices and Options
Like most products, aquarium brands come with varying reputations for quality, durability, and customer service.
- Premium Brands: Companies like Marineland, Fluval, and Aqueon often command higher prices. These brands typically use thicker glass or higher-quality acrylic, have better silicone seals, and may offer improved bracing.
- Budget Brands: You might find less expensive options from lesser-known manufacturers. While they can be a good way to find the cheapest 55 gallon fish tank, it’s crucial to research reviews to ensure the quality is still acceptable. A cheap tank that leaks is no bargain.
Beyond the Tank: Essential Components of a 55 Gallon Aquarium Setup Price
The tank itself is just the beginning. A functional aquarium requires a host of other equipment. The 55 gallon aquarium setup price is a sum of these parts.
Filtration: The Heartbeat of Your Aquarium
A robust filter is non-negotiable for a healthy aquarium. For a 55-gallon tank, you’ll need a filter that can process at least 5-10 times the tank’s volume per hour.
Filter Types and Costs:
- Hang-on-Back (HOB) Filters: These are popular for their ease of use and effectiveness.
- Average Cost: $30 – $80
- Considerations: Ensure the GPH (gallons per hour) rating is sufficient. You might need a larger HOB for a 55-gallon.
- Internal Filters: Submersible filters placed inside the tank.
- Average Cost: $20 – $60
- Considerations: Less common for primary filtration on tanks this size, but can be used as a secondary filter.
- Canister Filters: These are the gold standard for larger tanks like a 55-gallon, offering superior filtration and customizable media.
- Average Cost: $80 – $200+
- Considerations: More initial cost and slightly more complex to set up, but often more efficient and require less frequent maintenance than HOBs. They are excellent for maintaining water clarity and health.
Heating: Maintaining a Stable Environment
Most tropical fish require a stable water temperature.
- Submersible Heaters:
- Average Cost: $20 – $50
- Considerations: You’ll need a heater with a wattage appropriate for your tank size. For a 55-gallon, a 150-watt to 200-watt heater is generally recommended, depending on your room’s ambient temperature.
Lighting: For Plants and Ambiance
The type of lighting depends on your goals.
- Basic LED Lighting: For fish-only tanks or low-light plants.
- Average Cost: $30 – $70
- Aquascaping/High-Light Plant Lighting: More powerful LEDs for plant growth.
- Average Cost: $70 – $200+
- Considerations: If you plan on a planted tank, invest in good lighting.
Substrate: The Foundation of Your Aquarium
This is what goes on the bottom of the tank.
- Gravel:
- Average Cost: $20 – $40 for a 55-gallon tank
- Considerations: Easy to clean and readily available.
- Sand:
- Average Cost: $30 – $50 for a 55-gallon tank
- Considerations: Preferred by many bottom-dwelling fish and can look very natural. Requires a different cleaning approach.
- Specialty Substrates: For planted tanks, nutrient-rich substrates can add significantly to the 55 gallon fish tank cost.
- Average Cost: $50 – $100+ for a 55-gallon tank
Decorations & Live Plants: Aesthetics and Enrichment
These provide hiding places for fish and create a visually appealing environment.
- Decorations (artificial plants, driftwood, rocks, ornaments):
- Average Cost: $20 – $100+
- Live Plants:
- Average Cost: $30 – $150+ (depending on type and quantity)
Water Conditioner and Test Kits: Essential for Health
- Water Conditioner: Removes chlorine and chloramines.
- Average Cost: $10 – $20 per bottle (lasts a long time)
- Test Kits: Crucial for monitoring ammonia, nitrite, nitrate, and pH levels.
- Average Cost: $20 – $40
Accessories: The Little Things
- Gravel Vacuum/Siphon: For water changes and cleaning.
- Average Cost: $15 – $30
- Buckets: Dedicated buckets for aquarium water.
- Average Cost: $5 – $10 each
- Thermometer: To monitor water temperature.
- Average Cost: $5 – $15
The Cost Breakdown: Estimating the 55 Gallon Aquarium Setup Price
Let’s put it all together to get a clearer picture of the 55 gallon aquarium setup price.
Table 2: Estimated Cost of a 55 Gallon Aquarium Setup
| Component | Estimated Low Cost | Estimated Mid-Range Cost | Estimated High Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| 55 Gallon Tank | $60 | $90 | $150 |
| Filter | $40 (HOB) | $120 (Canister) | $200+ (High-end Canister) |
| Heater | $25 | $35 | $50 |
| Lighting | $30 (Basic LED) | $70 (Mid-range LED) | $150+ (Plant Growth LED) |
| Substrate | $25 (Gravel) | $40 (Sand) | $70 (Planted Tank Substrate) |
| Decorations/Plants | $30 | $70 | $150+ |
| Water Conditioner | $15 | $15 | $15 |
| Test Kit | $25 | $25 | $25 |
| Gravel Vac/Bucket | $20 | $25 | $30 |
| Total Estimated Cost | $270 | $490 | $940+ |
Note: These are estimates and can fluctuate based on sales, brands, and specific choices.
This table highlights that the average cost 55 gallon aquarium setup can range from around $270 for a basic setup to over $900 for a more advanced or planted tank.
Exploring 55 Gallon Tank Starter Kit Cost
Many pet stores and online retailers offer 55 gallon tank starter kit cost options. These kits can be a convenient way to get started, as they usually include the tank, a basic filter, a heater, and sometimes even a hood with lighting.
Pros of Starter Kits:
- Convenience: All the essential components are bundled together.
- Potential Savings: Kits can sometimes offer a slight discount compared to buying each item separately.
- Beginner Friendly: Designed for those new to the hobby, often including basic instructions.
Cons of Starter Kits:
- Lower Quality Components: The included filter, heater, or lighting might be basic or of lower quality, potentially requiring upgrades sooner rather than later.
- Limited Customization: You get what’s in the box; there’s no room for choosing specific brands or features.
- May Not Include Everything: Some kits might omit crucial items like substrate or decorations, meaning you still need to purchase those separately.
When considering a 55 gallon tank starter kit cost, carefully check what’s included and research the brands of the components. If the included items are of good quality, it can be a great starting point for the cost of 55 gallon fish tank setup.
Finding the Cheapest 55 Gallon Fish Tank and Options
If budget is a primary concern, you can look for ways to reduce the initial outlay.
Where to Find the Cheapest 55 Gallon Fish Tank:
- Online Retailers: Amazon, Petco, PetSmart, and specialized aquarium supply websites often have sales.
- Local Fish Stores: While sometimes pricier, they can offer expert advice and sometimes have used equipment.
- Used Marketplaces: Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace, and aquarium forums are excellent places to find used tanks and equipment. Be sure to inspect thoroughly for leaks and damage. A used tank can significantly lower the 55 gallon fish tank prices and options.
Tips for Saving Money:
- Buy Used: A used tank, filter, and heater can save you a lot of money. Just ensure they are in good working order.
- Wait for Sales: Keep an eye out for holiday sales or seasonal promotions.
- Start Basic: Opt for a glass tank with basic lighting and a reliable HOB filter initially. You can always upgrade later.
- DIY Decorations: Collect smooth stones (ensure they are aquarium-safe) or driftwood from nature (after proper preparation) for free decorations.
Factors Affecting the 55 Gallon Aquarium Setup Price
Beyond the components themselves, other factors can influence your total spending.
Tank Stand: Support and Aesthetics
A 55-gallon tank filled with water weighs over 500 pounds. You absolutely need a sturdy, level stand designed to support this weight.
- Basic Stands:
- Average Cost: $80 – $150
- Cabinet Stands: Offer storage and a more finished look.
- Average Cost: $150 – $400+
You can sometimes find stands bundled with tanks or as part of starter kits, which can affect the 55 gallon tank starter kit cost.
Maintenance Costs Over Time
While the initial purchase is a significant expense, remember that ongoing maintenance also incurs costs.
- Replacement Filter Media: Cartridges, sponges, etc.
- Water Treatments: More water conditioner, occasional supplements.
- Electricity: For filter, heater, and lights.
- Fish Food: Depending on the type and number of fish.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: What is the cheapest way to set up a 55 gallon fish tank?
The cheapest way is often by purchasing a used glass tank and stand, along with used but functional filtration and heating equipment. Starting with basic gravel substrate and minimal decorations also helps.
Q2: Can I buy a 55 gallon tank for under $100?
Yes, you can often find a new 55-gallon glass tank for under $100, especially during sales. Used tanks are also frequently available in this price range.
Q3: What is included in a 55 gallon tank starter kit?
Typical starter kits include the tank, a hood with lighting, a filter, and a heater. Some may also include substrate, a thermometer, and water conditioner. Always check the product description carefully.
Q4: How much does a 55 gallon glass tank cost versus an acrylic one?
A 55-gallon glass tank typically costs between $60 and $150, while a 55-gallon acrylic aquarium price is generally higher, ranging from $100 to $250 or more, due to the material’s cost and manufacturing process.
Q5: Are starter kits worth the money for a 55 gallon aquarium setup?
They can be convenient and offer some savings, especially for beginners. However, it’s crucial to assess the quality of the included components. If they are low-quality, you might end up spending more in the long run on upgrades.
By carefully considering each component and exploring different purchasing options, you can successfully set up a beautiful 55-gallon aquarium without breaking the bank. The cost of 55 gallon fish tank setup is an investment in a rewarding hobby.