38 gallon tank: dimensions & setup math
36 × 12 × 20 inches (L × W × H). Rounded planning dimensions; measure your tank.
38 nominal gal · about 422.37 lb with water, estimated glass and 2-inch gravel.
Estimated working water uses 85% of nominal: 32.3 US gal. The volume tool instead applies 85% to geometric volume. Neither is a measured fill.
Eight answers for this tank
- Tank volume
37.4 US gallons · 141.58 litres
- Gravel & substrate
50 lb gravel for a 2-inch bed
- Heater wattage
114–190 W planning range
- Filter flow
152–228 GPH for a community
- Stocking guide
432 in² surface · 36-inch swimming length
- Water changes
8.07 US gal for a 25% water change
- Dechlorinator dose
3.8 mL Prime for 38 US gal of new water
- Filled weight
About 422.37 lb filled (without stand)
Plan around this footprint
This 38 gallon plan uses 36 × 12 × 20 inches and 432 in² of floor. Compared with the 37 gallon (360 in²), its footprint is 20% larger. Medium setup: place equipment so water circulates along the full length, including behind hardscape.
Dimensions and limits
Aqueon size chart. Listed dimensions are representative, not exact catalog measurements. Names identify marketed sizes; geometry explains why the calculated gallons can differ. Weight excludes the stand, rocks and equipment.