55 gallon tank: size, liters and setup numbers
The 55 gallon is the classic 4 foot tank. It gives fish plenty of swimming length, but it is only about 13 inches front to back, which limits aquascaping depth and some larger fish.
| Typical dimensions | 48 × 13 × 21 in 121.9 × 33 × 53.3 cm |
|---|---|
| Volume | 55 US gallons 208.2 liters |
| Realistic water after substrate and decor | About 46.8 gal About 177 L |
| Water weight | About 459 lb About 208 kg |
| Gravel for a 1 inch bed | About 36 lb About 16 kg |
| Gravel for a 2 inch bed | About 72 lb About 33 kg |
| Heater (room 8°F / 4.4°C cooler) | 150 W |
| Heater (room 15°F / 8.3°C cooler) | 2 × 150 W |
| Filter flow (4 to 6 times per hour) | 220 to 330 GPH 833 to 1,249 L/h |
Dimensions vary a little between brands. For exact numbers, measure your tank and use the calculators below.
Plan the rest of your 55 gallon tank
Common questions
- How many liters is a 55 gallon tank?
- A 55 gallon tank holds about 208.2 liters when filled to the brim. With substrate and decorations, the real water volume is usually closer to 177 liters.
- How much does a 55 gallon tank weigh when full?
- The water alone weighs about 459 pounds (208 kg). Glass, substrate and rock add more on top, so choose a stand rated for the full weight.
- What size heater does a 55 gallon tank need?
- If your room stays around 8°F below your target water temperature, a 150 W heater is a good fit. For colder rooms, around 15°F below target, go with 2 × 150 W.