Space behind the tank...how much should I leave?

[Linda C.]

Tom just came home about 1/2 hour ago with that 120 that Krazy K passed on. So kewl, the guy threw in the lights, refractomer/ballasts/pH pen and a box of misc. goodies for $50.

Before I fill this tank does anyone know the Best amount of space to leave behind the tank? I want to leave about 6-7 inches but Tom thinks that is too far. I want to be able to hang on those trays for the air pumps that turn on by themselves if the power goes out. Any thoughts? (and just don't side with Tom because you feel bad for him)

 

[jallard]

I dunno I think toms right :lol:

4-6" is prolly enough

 

[monti-mike]

for those trays 6" should be good (i always go with a little more if u have the space) good for air cirulation..

 

[Linda C.]

tank is 1/2 full right now...lol...I made the space far enough to stick my head behind the tank to peek at what goes on back there. I can't do that with the 180 and I sometimes hold a mirror to see the back....really nice mushrooms and other corals that floated/fell live back there.

Tom actually said it was fine (maybe he just gave up ;-)

 

[Dave ESPI]

8 inches is perfect. for big tanks, ya never know when you have to sneek a makor replumb back behind it, or do some work that makes it easier when you have a bit of space.

 

[michaelg]

I agree, more space is better. Many times I've needed to work behind the tank and hate not having room.

 

[vmiller]

I left enough space behind my 180 to walk behind it comfortably. The location of my 125 didn't allow for that much room, but I can still squeeze back there if I need to.

I think it's a great convenience being able to get behind the tank relatively easily, but I don't think it's a necessity.

Are you going to run these tanks on a common sump?

 

[Coral007]

I agree that any amount of space that you can leave behind it for maintenance or for curiosity would definately be suggestable if you have the room to manage it. I always want to peek behind my tanks and see what those little critters are up to.

 

[Sk8r]

If you want to add a hang-on refugium, consider that.

 

[xian]

My 125 will have limited space behind it as it will be in the dining room.

 

[Coral007]

Sometimes aesthetics do win out over convenience.