Questions
Answered, candidly.
If something isn't covered here, write us. We'd rather you ask now than guess later.
The basics
We're for people who want a beautiful planted freshwater aquarium but don't want to spend three months on forums learning what to buy. Beginners and intermediate hobbyists. Office and home setups. Apartments, studios, cafes.
Not at this time. We specialize in beginner-friendly freshwater planted aquariums. For advanced reef systems or specialty livestock, we'll refer you to a specialist.
Northwater is based in the Seattle area. In-person installation is available locally; virtual consultations and async plans are available anywhere.
Engagements & materials
No, you purchase materials directly. We design the plan, give you the exact shopping list, and never mark up products. This keeps the relationship honest and the cost transparent.
A modest beginner planted tank typically lands between $400 and $1,200 in materials, depending on tank size, lighting, hardscape, and livestock. Our service fees are separate and start at $59.
Yes. If you book a setup within 30 days of your live consult, the consult fee is credited toward your installation.
The process
Most beginner installs take 3–5 hours on-site. The tank then needs to cycle, typically 2 to 6 weeks before livestock should be added. We walk you through this in the care plan.
No. Setup is only scheduled after every required item has arrived. This avoids the all-too-common situation of showing up to install a tank without substrate or a working filter.
Some plant melt during cycling is normal. We'll explain what's expected. We can't guarantee livestock outcomes, but our 30-day support add-on covers the first month of questions, photo check-ins, and parameter guidance.
Disclaimers
No. Visual concepts are design direction, not guaranteed outcomes. Real plants grow in their own time, hardscape varies, and livestock behavior is its own thing. The render shows you the vibe. The tank earns its final look over weeks.
Yes, behind the scenes, to organize briefs and draft initial recommendations. Every plan is reviewed and verified by a human before it reaches you. We treat AI as an efficiency tool, not the brand promise.
Still have a question?
Write us. We answer every email personally.