Keeping a thriving reef tank isn’t just about beautiful corals and colorful fish—it’s about consistent, smart maintenance. A simple reef tank maintenance checklist helps you stay ahead of algae, nutrient spikes, and equipment failures so your reef stays stable and stress-free.

Daily & Every-Other-Day Reef Tank Tasks

These quick checks only take a few minutes but make a huge difference in long-term stability.

• Visual livestock check: Look for torn fins, closed polyps, labored breathing, or sudden aggression. Early detection saves livestock.
• Temperature: Confirm your heater and cooling fans are keeping the tank in its ideal range (usually 76–79°F for most mixed reefs).
• Top off evaporated water: Use RO/DI water only. If you don’t have an auto top-off yet, add it to your upgrade list—it’s one of the best stability tools.
• Quick equipment scan: Make sure return pumps, wavemakers, skimmers, and lights are running and not making unusual noises.
• Feed carefully: Feed small amounts your fish will finish in 1–2 minutes to avoid nutrient spikes and nuisance algae.

Pro tip: Keep a small towel, algae scraper, and turkey baster near the tank. You’re far more likely to do quick, helpful maintenance when the tools are within reach.

Weekly Reef Tank Maintenance Checklist

Weekly tasks keep nutrients under control and your system looking crystal clear.

• Test core parameters: Check salinity, alkalinity, calcium, magnesium, nitrate, and phosphate. Log your results in a notebook or app to spot trends.
• Water change (10–15%): Match temperature and salinity before adding new saltwater. Siphon detritus from the sump and low-flow areas of the display.
• Clean the glass: Use a magnetic scraper for daily film algae and a razor or plastic blade for stubborn spots.
• Empty and clean the skimmer cup: Rinse with warm water; avoid soap. Check that the skimmer is still producing a consistent, dark skimmate.
• Blow off rocks: Use a turkey baster or powerhead to blast detritus from rockwork before the water change so it can be exported.
• Inspect livestock and corals closely: Look for tissue recession, pests, or unusual behavior. Catching issues now is much easier than after a full outbreak.

For a deeper dive into keeping your water chemistry stable, see our guide on reef tank water parameters.

Monthly & Seasonal Deep-Clean Tasks

These less frequent jobs protect your equipment investment and keep your reef system running smoothly.

Monthly Checklist

• Clean powerheads and pumps: Soak in a vinegar solution, then scrub off calcium buildup. Restored flow often improves coral health and reduces dead spots.
• Change or rinse mechanical filtration: Replace filter socks, floss, or pads before they become nitrate factories.
• Check and calibrate equipment: Verify heater accuracy, calibrate refractometers, and review light schedules.
• Review dosing: As corals grow, they consume more alkalinity and calcium. Adjust dosing pumps based on your latest test results.

Every 3–6 Months

• Deep-clean the sump: Remove accumulated detritus, salt creep, and any unused equipment.
• Replace carbon and other media: Old media becomes less effective; follow manufacturer guidelines and your tank’s nutrient trends.
• Inspect plumbing: Check for salt creep, leaks, and brittle hoses. Fix small issues before they become emergencies.

If you’re planning a new build or upgrade, our reef tank setup guide walks through choosing equipment that’s easier to maintain long term.

Putting Your Reef Tank Maintenance on Autopilot

The best checklist is the one you’ll actually follow. Print your reef tank maintenance checklist and keep it in your stand, or use a phone reminder app. Combine automation (auto top-off, dosing pumps, timers) with consistent observation, and you’ll spend more time enjoying your reef and less time fixing problems.

Want to fine-tune your routine by tank size and stocking level? Check out our reef tank maintenance schedule for sample plans you can adapt to your system.

With a clear, realistic maintenance plan in place, your reef tank can stay stable, vibrant, and ready to grow for years to come.