Uprading from 150 to 350. Need help deciding
- Thread starter larryfl1
- Start date
I recently ordered a very similar tank(96x36x24). I kept it 24" to help with gas exchange like you mentioned and so I dont have to run 400 watt halides. As you probably already know the deeper the tank the more expensive it gets expontentially. Im upgrading from a 180 btw.
PS another benefit that Im hoping for is I will have a taller stand, giving me more access to the sump and/or allowing for a bigger sump.
Just my $.02
PS another benefit that Im hoping for is I will have a taller stand, giving me more access to the sump and/or allowing for a bigger sump.
Just my $.02
My tank dimensions are similar at 96W x 36D x 27H and with the paneling & cabinet doors covering the top inch & bottom inches or so it looks closer to 24" tall & I don't think it looks stretched at all. The problem I have with 30" or more in height is the inconvenience of reaching the bottom of the tank when something falls, etc. If you have the space I would increase the front to back depth to as large as you can and not worry so much about the height. In my opinion this creates more "fish friendly" swimming areas and way more options for the aqua-scape.
BigOldReef
New member
I had a 96x33x24 tank. Which I thought was kind of short and stubby looking. I had the opportunity to have the tank remade and I opted for 96x33x28. I can reach the bottom of the 28, its a stretch but I can reach it.
My tank is an open top, so it has a stainless steel frame and full access. Since there is only a 3" splash strip around the top edge reaching down the front to scrub coraline is doable - not enjoyable - but doable. I had a 300g 30"Tall fish only tank with standard acrylic openings, and reaching the bottom of that tank was darn near impossible without lying on top of the tank and putting my shoulder into the tank.
My tank is an open top, so it has a stainless steel frame and full access. Since there is only a 3" splash strip around the top edge reaching down the front to scrub coraline is doable - not enjoyable - but doable. I had a 300g 30"Tall fish only tank with standard acrylic openings, and reaching the bottom of that tank was darn near impossible without lying on top of the tank and putting my shoulder into the tank.
Znut Reefer
Premium Member
I would go with the same as Greg recommended 96x36x27. You'll love the width of 36. Mine is 120x36x30 which I don't mind working in it as long as they make ladders and tongs to reach the bottom.
sedor
New member
I'd prefer a slightly shorter and wider tank personally. Height really doesn't do much for your animals and it just creates issues when you want to stick your arm in quickly and pull something from the bottom of the tank. The dimensions you initially stated sound great, congrats on the upgrade :thumbsup:
I did a center calfo with 2 drains and 2 returns when I ordered mine. I will be waveboxing it though. If you are using powerheads I dont think, center vs corner, would matter too much except the visual aspect. Corner overflow benefit is you can see your overflow to make sure everything is functioning properly but on the same hand it also isnt very attractive to guests. An external calfo price is what kept me from going that route.
i think having it in the center may be a nightmare if there is an issue.. at 8ft it puts it at 4 ft from either end and the tank will be tight to the back wall..
i think i may have to do 2 corner overflows but keep them only a few inches in depth from the back.. this way from the end you will only see a few inches of overflow and i can use acrylic to block the view....
or inset them from each end about a foot so that you cant see it at the end but it is easily reachable from the sides to do maintenance....thoughts???
i think i may have to do 2 corner overflows but keep them only a few inches in depth from the back.. this way from the end you will only see a few inches of overflow and i can use acrylic to block the view....
or inset them from each end about a foot so that you cant see it at the end but it is easily reachable from the sides to do maintenance....thoughts???
I strongly suggest you look at the BeanAnimal overflow. http://www.beananimal.com/projects/silent-and-fail-safe-aquarium-overflow-system.aspx
It is very safe, and super quiet...a lot more quiet than a durso.
It is very safe, and super quiet...a lot more quiet than a durso.
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