Very hard water, how do members here manage it?

[DuzMano]

Root tabs and liquid fertiliser are among the considered monthly expenses, along with food, meds and water treatments lol

I'd love a 3ft, and maybe it's possible in the space I have available if it's turned 90 degrees, but think it would look a bit silly sticking out the alcove like that... But maybe it'd work but seriously, I have a spot, a plan and no further room other than in a music studio but then the fish would have to like my music which I very much doubt... I'm sure loud bass would be most hideous for them Lmao

[Martinspuddle]

Keep you eye on eBay. Quite often you'll find someone having a clear out at rock bottom prices.

Foods, apart from frozen a lot of us use Heron's Pet World | Premium fish food

API full test kit, don't use test strips, they can be very inaccurate. Other than water dechlorinator, cycling treatments, I wouldn't worry to much about any 'meds' until you really need them.

Vibrations and aquatic fauna don't generally mix.

[Martinspuddle]

Have you read our aquarium cycling guide?

How to cycle your aquarium

[DuzMano]

I have watched some vids and also intending to go at least a month if not two before I introduce any animalia. I'll also be sure to check out the guide here when I get started with the project and be sure to invest in a master kit.

I'm wondering if there's any members locally that would be willing to part with some used filter medium... Though using a bottle bacteria isn't a huge additional expense and possibly something worth having in case.

[Martinspuddle]

I have watched some vids and also intending to go at least a month if not two before I introduce any animalia. I'll also be sure to check out the guide here when I get started with the project.

Good, glad to here it. You wouldn't believe some of the bad advice that has been given before now, especially from some stores.

I'm wondering if there's any members locally that would be willing to part with some used filter medium... Though using a bottle bacteria isn't a huge additional expense and possibly something worth having in case.

Nearer the time put a post up in the wanted section. Unfortunately off hand, I can't remember if there's anyone up your way. Failing that, some aquatic stores will supply you for a fee.

[DuzMano]

I have a maidenhead aquatics in a fairly local garden centre and also a couple of local specialist shops near the town. I'll be avoiding the 'big box' stores except for the sundry items like water treatments and ferts and tabs etc that may prove cheaper from there due to the buying power and will be the same no matter where I buy it from.