Optimum Stand Height

[algaeguy]

Hi there!

I'm desingining a new system (120 gallons, 48" x24" x24" tall), and I'm curious about the "optimum" stand height for comfortable viewing. I realize that there are lots of variables, such as the height of the viewer, the need for access under the tank, etc.

However, these things not withstanding, is there such a thing? I was thinking around 36"-38". How high are your stands?

I'm trying to get it right from the start THIS time, so any feedback would be appreciated!

Thanks!

Scott

 

[marino420td]

I just built a stand for my new 120 and I made it 36" high. I don't have it set up yet but I believe this will be a nice height. It will be easy to view from a sitting position as well as standing.

 

[algaeguy]

Cool! Sounds like I'm on the right track!

Thanks!

Scott

 

[HippieSmell]

36" high on my soon-to-be 120 as well.

 

[Sk8r]

Yep, and you've got to service it: we use a painting ladder, and are glad it's no taller.

 

[BlueStag]

36 to 38 is perfect. Tall enough for most skimmers(It's a pain to find out later that you can't get a skimmer cause the stand is too short.) But not too tall that you can't work inside of the tank.

 

[BigManBud]

What they said...mine is 36 too and its good for viewing and not too bad for working in it either.

 

[BigJPDC]

I went with 39.5 on mine. Since you are calling all the shots, figure out who will do the most viewing, and what the most comfortable height would be for them. And don't forget to add the height of the tank into your overall equation.

I hated the idea of spending all this money and then bending over every time I wanted to watch the fish. I went with as high as I could make it before the top of the back of the tank began to get into view, so I could minimize the footprint of the seaswirl.

HTH

jp

 

[algaeguy]

Excellent points by everyone.

My house has really high ceilings, but, as luck would have it, the place where I'm locating the tank has the lowest ceilings in the house!

I actually considered 39" at one point, but with a 24" high tank and lighting canopy, it was too close to the ceiling when you open up the top.

I think 36" will probably do the trick.

Thanks again, folks! Great information!

scott