A chance to build a dream tank...

swany said:
If you are planning on putting it next to a wall, the best thing I did for the tank is build a "stage" in the back of it. It is about a foot high and 10" wide and 6' long.
Click to expand...

Oops, should have replied to this in the other posts, but GREAT IDEA!

The only issue is that this needs to be child-safe (18 month old running around) and the cables can't be exposed since we have a pet rabbit and they chew cables relentlessly. Electrocution is the leading cause of preventable death in pet rabbits :sad:
 
I think you could manage this tank under 2000 dollars.

Look around on Craigslist for used tanks. I once saw a 265g going for 500 dollars.
 
Remember this is Canadian Dollars too, so the number goes up by about 15-25% on the exchange, and also prices do tend to be higher here. The 180g tank, glass top and stand is $1,800 new.

Also, I'm weird about used tanks. I just don't trust them not to explode a day or two after I fill them.
 
I completely understand your fear of used tanks. Even though I suggest people buy used tanks, I don't like buying used tanks myself. I say this because new tanks are fairly expensive and not everyone has the skill to build their tanks (which saves a LOT of money)

I personally would steer away from inline heaters for a tank of your size, as you would need at least 3.
 
i buy used because they are so much cheaper and i inspect before i buy... i have never had a leaky tank or never had a bad used tank experiance... i also find that you save way to much money buying used... is it possible to save way to much... but back on track, if i were to get my dream tank i would take a crack at building one and it would be around 400 gallons...
 
Yeah, I've considered having a custom really long tank made, like a 8' L x 18" D x 18" T 135g which would give lots of swimming room without being too tall or deep to plant.

I'm not sure why, but in my head that seems like it would be a great looking tank.
 
i have a 6'x18"x18" tank (100g) in my basement.. havent set it up yet but it's going to be an EXCELLENT cichlid tank.


the superlong normal height tank will be nice for LOTS of smaller fish, you know?
 
Yeah that was my thought too. There is a local custom tank maker here as well.

Hmm, I was hoping to get a pre-made cover from AH Supply, but I wonder if they make oddball sizes to order or not...
 
just to let you know making a stand and hood take very little effort and cost much less to do them your self... it sound like you know something about building so i would suggest you make your own stand and hood... also i can never find a stand that looks nice so in making one i can make it look how i want and make it as sturdy as i want
 
Dedicated GFCI - excellent choice
Dual Heaters - of course
UPS - not necessary
Custom Plumbing - Another great idea

Here's a few ideas off the top of my head.

I'd leave yourself room for change/additions. Make the room/area bigger then you need. Being cramped always sucks. Put in a lot of outlets on the GFCI circuit. You can never have too many. Ventillation??? Water aging tank? Lots of storage of course. Alternate viewing lights. Depending on what you want, maybe a day/night thing. Colors? Room lightinmg???

Don't forget to post pics. How about some work in progress ones so we can all post our valueless advice. lol
Have fun :dance:
 
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