What to consider when buying a used tank?

RayAllen3422

RayAllen3422

New member
I am getting back into the hobby and looking to purchase a used tank. What are some things I should ask and consider before buying a tank? I am thinking about doing a 75 or 90 gallon reef ready tank. Thanks for any insight!!!
 
I know it seems obvious, but make sure it holds water and always be prepared to reseal if needed. Lots of scammers out there if you're buying from somewhere like craigslist.

If you're planning on drilling the tank, check to see if it is tempered glass. I've had to take some polarized sunglasses and a laptop with me to pick up a tank, because a lot of people aren't sure of this.
 
Yes, I keep an eye out for them all the time. A lot of people don't realize that a used tank isn't worth much, though and want an arm and a leg for them!

Looks like you're pretty close to me too...I actually have a 75 for sale right now. let me know if that's the route you're going. I want it out of my house, so would give you a good deal! lol
 
I like to see it with water in it. Look for chips, scratches, missing silicone and any braces or trim is not cracked. Personally if I thought the tank needed resealed I would take a pass on it. Good luck
 
as far as the copper. is that really a big deal. because what if you bought the tank and the person lied and did run copper. would you not be able to keep a reef tank
 
anthonys51 said:
as far as the copper. is that really a big deal. because what if you bought the tank and the person lied and did run copper. would you not be able to keep a reef tank
Click to expand...


That is what I was told. Copper is toxic to many things especially corals I believe. Others may chime in.
 
If you buy a tank & stand combo, make sure the stand is level and true in all dimensions - front to back, side to side & corner to corner. A warped stand surface is dangerous for some aquarium designs.

If you're buying a light fixture, remember ballasts wear out over time so don't pay top dollar for an older unit.
 
Any used tank you buy if it doesn't have water in it and up and running have them fill it with water and then you can test all of the pumps that come with it to make sure they are in working order and that the tank does not leak.

Good luck in your search there are some great deals to be had.
 
Dkuhlmann said:
Any used tank you buy if it doesn't have water in it and up and running have them fill it with water and then you can test all of the pumps that come with it to make sure they are in working order and that the tank does not leak.

Good luck in your search there are some great deals to be had.
Click to expand...


Thanks I can't wait to get a tank so my reef build can begin!!!
 
I just did the same back in March of this year. I've been away for about 10 years or so and decided to get back into it. Have fun and enjoy the ride!

You need to get over 50 posts that way you can see the for sale section. Your 50 posts have to have meaning, not like "I agree" or "following along" you get the point. So I'd get busy and active in some threads helping others or asking questions. Maybe start a thread on some things you would like to know, or better yet do a thread on your journey to getting back in the hobby. A blog type thread.
 
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
 
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