What to consider when buying a used tank?

[RayAllen3422]

The local forum is good because you can also look at someone's post history. I feel like if they are active and invested in the hobby they are less likely to be a scammer, and more reasonable about prices generally.
I don't worry about copper on tanks. I might check for it if I was using a lot of used PVC, but I don't think that enough can get in the silicon to make any diff

That's good to know. I plan to create my own plumbing so used PVC shouldn't be an issue.

 

[A1t2o]

The local forum is good because you can also look at someone's post history. I feel like if they are active and invested in the hobby they are less likely to be a scammer, and more reasonable about prices generally.
I don't worry about copper on tanks. I might check for it if I was using a lot of used PVC, but I don't think that enough can get in the silicon to make any diff

Completely agree. Copper is a trace element that is used by corals, too much will kill them but traces of it will be used and should benefit your tank.

 

[ca1ore]

I would never buy a used tank without seeing it filled first. A tank that leaks is structurally compromised; no amount of resealing is going to fix that even if it 'appears to hold water for a while'. Prior copper is irrelevant as neither glass nor silicone absorbs it.

Also keep in mind that folks generally 'underestimate' age and/or usage. It's also fundamental to the human condition to 'ask more for my used gear than I'd be willing to pay for yours'.

 

[NJAB]

Craigslist isn't too bad I bought my 75Gal on it, but you just have to inspect it really well before buying and of course avoid all the people that believe their tanks are worth more then they really are I got mine for $40 and the stand from someone else for $20 (solid wood). I don't know if anyone's mentioned it but run your fingers along the silicone seams to make sure there not brittle or cracked and also use the flashlight on your phone to help you find the scratches and don't be afraid to walk away if anything is not to your liking

 

[RayAllen3422]

Craigslist isn't too bad I bought my 75Gal on it, but you just have to inspect it really well before buying and of course avoid all the people that believe their tanks are worth more then they really are I got mine for $40 and the stand from someone else for $20 (solid wood). I don't know if anyone's mentioned it but run your fingers along the silicone seams to make sure there not brittle or cracked and also use the flashlight on your phone to help you find the scratches and don't be afraid to walk away if anything is not to your liking

Thanks for the input. I have noticed a lot of overpriced items on there.

 

[rfurst]

You mentioned you were looking for a reef ready tank but usually that just mean it has undersized drains / returns. Much better to consider basic tank and the drilling for the drain and return size you want. It's easy to drill a tank.

 

[JaihWill]

This post has really been helpful

 

[RayAllen3422]

What to consider when buying a used tank?

You mentioned you were looking for a reef ready tank but usually that just mean it has undersized drains / returns. Much better to consider basic tank and the drilling for the drain and return size you want. It's easy to drill a tank.

Yeah. I'm scared to drill. If you want to fly to Virginia and drill one for me feel free. [emoji12]

 

[champion6sigma]

I regretted buying a used tank because of the scratches and blemishes I didn't see right away, and the few I did see. It was a red sea and so, not many to choose from.

My second tank, every single part is new, no problems, no worries, no reduced life span on parts, and warranties.

There's probably going to be some killer deals coming up. You just have to be ready and strike when they present themselves.

 

[RayAllen3422]

I regretted buying a used tank because of the scratches and blemishes I didn't see right away, and the few I did see. It was a red sea and so, not many to choose from.

My second tank, every single part is new, no problems, no worries, no reduced life span on parts, and warranties.

There's probably going to be some killer deals coming up. You just have to be ready and strike when they present themselves.

You mean Black Friday deals.

 

[champion6sigma]

Sure, black friday, or any specials or holiday. Marine depot just had a big discount on veterans day. Of course nothing ever applies to certain fixed price brands....but for just a simple tank or tank/stand. There are deals everywhere.

At my LFS
90 GALLON TANK ONLY PRICE $ 199.99, with glass tops and light- 259.99 and with stand- 399.99