Used equipment

[pescarlover]

I am hoping to start my SW tank soon. I am still gathering info. I was at lfs store today, they have a 90 gal used tank with everything to start up. I do know all the specifics of what brands it included, but it did have stand, canopy, pumps etc for $900.00.

He said it was all there. My main concern is it safe to buy used, should there be any concerns or things to look out for? I can tell by looking at components it has been used for awhile (I say it looks like scum, but that is because I lack a better term). The store will clean it, guarantee for 90 days, and assemble for a fee.

So, would this be an option, or do components wear out fast. Also worry about contamination, etc.

Any thoughts appreciated. I want FOWLR.

 

[sumoschro]

even though they say that they will clean it, that doesnt mean you should go with what they say and just set it up....give it a cleaning of your own if you dont think they will do a good job. I am not in the saltwater deal, but i can tell you that the major thing to look out for in used tanks are scratches or cracks in the glass, and broken parts. trust me, its a pain in the butt to have to order parts for a filter or something, took them forever to get it to me too...

 

[latazyo]

900 dollars doesn't seem like that great of a deal for a 90g to me

a concern that I would have about the used tank would be if the pet store used copper medications in it

 

[Phildo]

I agree, that $900 doesn't sound like that good of a deal.
A couple years ago I sold my 90 gal setup for about $450 and it had everything. How much is a new setup, I'd seriously look into it.