Setting up my first tropical tank. Quick novice question!

[Dieu]

Hi. Have spent hours today getting the tank ready for our Siamese fighter (not being picked up for a few weeks). Ruddy hell, I haven't even got him yet, and it's cheaper and easier to own my dog and cat

I just want to get everything right, but my question is this. Now that I have treated the tap water and everything is ready, am I supposed to run the filter and heater 24/7 from now until the fish comes? And what about the lighting for the live plants?

Will eagerly await your replies - thanks!

[Dieu]

Tiny pieces of live plant are floating around, which I assume must be ok for the water? This has taken so long that my anal tendencies are creeping in! Don't want anything to mess it up!

[Boring12]

Filter and heater need to run non stop now, and the lights need to be on for no more than 8 hours a day. I'd personally leave the floating plants but if they start to discolour then get rid, don't want them rotting! Just make sure you test your water or get a store to do it regularly. Water change around 30% once a week using tap safe. Check the filter once a month and don't over feed and you should be set! Have fun