Fluval 10531A1 SEA EVO XII Aquarium Kit Review

If you’re in the market for a better aquarium set-up, it’s worth checking out the Fluval 10531A1 SEA EVO XII Aquarium Kit.

Based on tester feedback, it’s effortless to assemble, easy to maintain and boasts of a sleek design that will uplift nearly any home decor.

With that said, not everyone has such a good experience. Some users had the tank leak, while others disliked the lack of key accessories. Are these deal-breakers or just bumps in the road?

We discuss all that and more, so read on for an in-depth look at the Fluval 10531A1 SEA EVO XII Aquarium Kit.

Fluval 10531A1 SEA EVO XII Aquarium Kit: The Details

Specs

• Weight: 28.8 lbs.
• Dimensions: 22 x 11.5 x 15 inches.
• Capacity: 13.5 gallons.
• Lighting: Yes.
• Glass or Acrylic: Glass.
• Accessories: Safe, low-voltage transformer; circulation pump with output nozzle; foam filter block with handle; BioMax insert; activated carbon insert.
• Warranty: Two-year limited warranty.

Features

Capacity

The Fluval SEA EVO XII Aquarium has a capacity of 13.5 gallons, serving as a medium-sized tank.

There’s ample room for many fish, as well as sparse decorations, without danger of it taking over an entire portion of your living room.

Since many common species require 10 gallons in total, this will suit most of your fishkeeping goals.

Three-Stage Filtration

The kit also provides a three-stage filtration system, including the mechanical, chemical, biological media you’ll need.

All the media is oversized to catch as much filth or debris as possible.

More specifically, there is a foam filter block to help capture particulates, algae, and any other debris; an activated carbon chamber for chemical filtrations, so as to dissolve organics that would reduce the water quality or discolor it.

And, finally, there are Biomax rings that ensure good bacteria thrives.

Lighting

The SEA EVO XII includes an LED lighting system with 14000K LED, which delivers optimal conditions for coral growth, color, and conditioning.

There are also daylight and night options, which can be alternated with the touch of a button. The lighting fixture is waterproof and made of aluminum, guaranteeing both safety and durability.

The system features 31 LEDs in total, providing you with excellent views, as well as a strong environment for plant life to thrive.

Canopy

Finally, there is a canopy that encloses the top of the aquarium, ensuring jumpy fish stay put.

It also features a little door to make feeding times easier, along with several lights, so you always have the best views.

Accessories:

• Fully integrated LED lighting system.
• Safe, low-voltage transformer.
• Circulation pump with output nozzle.
• Foam filter block with handle.
• BioMax insert.
• Activated carbon insert.

Fluval 10531A1 SEA EVO XII Aquarium Kit Review

The Positives

Convenient

Users of the Fluval SEA EVO XII Aquarium Kit really enjoyed the ‘one-stop shop’ nature of this kit, eliminating the need for secondary purchases.

Along with the tank, you have all the equipment needed for diving into fishkeeping.

Believe it or not, some kits come with everything but the tank, leaving you to fend for yourself to find everything else you need, resulting in more time and money spent. Luckily, that is not the case here.

If this is your first venture into owning fish or a big aquarium, it’s a great place to start. This aquarium kit will take out some of the guesswork that comes with putting together a new tank, and for a beginner, that’s important.

Good Capacity

Users also enjoyed the tank’s capacity. This definitely is a step up from the fishbowl you may have owned as a kid.

This capacity also allows you to add as much plant and coral life (or little statues, if that’s your thing) to the tank, enhancing your pets’ environment.

Those using this tank won’t have to compromise too much on the pets and decoration they want to include, thanks to this tank’s capacity.

Your fish will be happier, as a result, thanks to their new, spacious home. Just make sure the plants can hold up to saltwater – as this tank is not suited for freshwater.

Easy to Maintain

This Fluval aquarium kit is very easy to maintain. For everyday care, you need only feed your fish, ensure there are no malfunctions with the pump or filter, and check the temperature of the water.

Once a week, you should clean out the protein skimmer with a simple rinse, change 10% of the water, and scrub the glass as necessary.

About once a month, you should change the filter and replace all the media. That’s rather straightforward, and there are very few parts to disassemble.

Whether or not you’re new to fishkeeping, cleaning and maintaining a tank can easily become a daunting process. Fluval has made it all the easier to keep both you and your fish happier with a tank that’s less trouble to own.

Easy to Set-Up

This kit is very easy to assemble. To begin, you should verify that all the equipment is present, via the list included in your box.

Next, you’ll plug in the pump, connect the tubing, and attach it to the tank. Then, insert the media into its necessary compartments after rinsing the carbon and the BioMax media thoroughly.

If you’ve purchased a heater, that installation process takes place as you attach the protein skimmer. Next, you simply add in the saltwater, arrange your sand and rocks at the bottom, and then connect the lighting.

Carefully add your fish into the tank – and you’re ready to go! You won’t be left fumbling around with random components since instructions are easy to follow.

Quality Design

Users loved the design of this aquarium. The sleek glass tank boasts of a “honeycomb” design, which helps conceal the filtration area from sight, improving the overall aesthetic.

The design is very modern, but also suits other styles of decor. Thanks to its simplistic, clean construction, you won’t have to worry about it clashing with your interior design.

Its size also makes it convenient to set in a variety of locations without hogging up all the room. With a streamlined design, it makes placement all the easier.

Great for Beginners

Given the price, its ease of use, and the filtration already included in the box, this Fluval aquarium checks all the boxes for beginners.

It’s small enough so that it’s not too overwhelming to start out on, but has enough room to keep your fish happy.

Backed by a two-year warranty, users can worry even less. Fluval promises to replace or repair your aquarium should you come across any damages or issues caused in the manufacturing process.

A good warranty shows the company stands by their product and has their customer’s backs should things not go as planned. For beginners, this is especially helpful.

The Negatives

No Heater

This aquarium kit, unfortunately, does not include a heater. You will have to buy this separately, as most saltwater tanks do require one.

While this isn’t the most expensive aquarium kit on the market (under $200 on Amazon), once you add $15 to $100, depending on the heater, this becomes more substantial.

No Timer

Several testers noted that the lighting system does not have a timer – a feature they expected. If you want to turn off the lighting or switch it from the day to night setting, you must do so manually.

You cannot schedule the lights to alternate and cannot limit their exposure.

This is definitely an oversight by Fluval, as many comparable tank kits feature timers as a standard accessory. No one wants to be dealing with the lighting system every day.

Plastic Pieces

Users loved the modern, sleek design of this Fluval aquarium, but some users pointed out that they didn’t like some of the cheaper parts used in its construction.

Most comments were about the plastic covering for the filter. Users thought this plastic seemed to be flimsier, than other parts of the aquarium. This caused worries of breaking for some users.

If Fluval upgrades these parts to be sturdier, this tank will be less of a cause for worry.

Beware of Lemons

Not only did some users have issues with the tank cracking and leaking, but they also had trouble with the lighting system malfunctioning and corroding.

While this wasn’t the majority experience, it’s worth mentioning. While there is always the risk of cracks and leaks when you have a glass tank, the lighting system should not be malfunctioning after only a few months of use.

These issues seem to be due to the salt. However, since this kit is labeled as a saltwater aquarium, it’s a worrisome flaw in the design.

Here’s a video showing what the Fluval SEA EVO XII Aquarium Kit looks like out of the box.

Overall Verdict

After going over all the positives and the negatives, we are cautiously recommending the Fluval 10531A1 SEA EVO XII Aquarium Kit.

It’s the perfect size for multiple fish, it’s easy to maintain and assemble, and provides you with numerous helpful accessories.

The price is exceptionally reasonable for a saltwater tank, and it serves as an ideal one-stop shop for fishkeeping.

Nonetheless, the lack of heater and timer definitely give us pause. While you may never experience an issue, there are cases where the tank cracks and the lighting erodes.

For the price, it’s a great investment with some risk involved. It’s wise to maintain a close eye on your kit once it arrives, and be sure to use the warranty if any issues arise.

Where to Buy the Fluval 10531A1 SEA EVO XII Aquarium Kit

Fluval has shown that they’re a brand that’s not going anywhere as they continue to stay on top of the market with their modern aquariums like the Fluval SEA EVO XII.

They have a wide variety of aquatic products available and are a known brand amongst aquarists, retailers and enthusiasts.

Thanks to their line of affordable and accessible products, Fluval has continued to grow in popularity over the years, making items like the Fluval SEA EVO XII Aquarium Kit available both in-store and online.

While it’s usually best to check pet, aquatic, or specialty stores, you can start your search with the following online retailers.

• PetCo (from $227)
• Big Al’s Pets (from $159)
• Saltwater Aquarium (from $159)

And of course, you can also find this aquarium kit on Amazon.

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That’s the end of our Fluval SEA EXO XII Aquarium review. Tempted to give it a try?