What to look for buying used?

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big_aug

New member
So I'm doing my research and looking to put together my first tank. I've been browsing craigslist/Facebook for tanks while I'm reading up.

What things should I be wary of? I have no experience and I'm worried about buying a big *** tank that is some how defective. Perhaps I'm paranoid. I buy used stuff all the time, but it's stuff I have a lot of experience with.

Any checklists or rules or thumb? For example, I saw a nice looking 125g tank with a nice wokd stand, sump, etc but id be scared to buy it. I'm not ready to buy yet, but I just want to keep my eyes open.

Thank you!
 
Right off the bat I would not buy a used tank without seeing it full of water. You'll never be able to tell if it is 100% leak proof empty.
 
If you have a LFS (local fish store) nearby, and they have used tanks, simply ask them their policy should you take it home and discover it leaks. If they are willing to refund that's obviously okay.

ALWAYS leak test any aquarium (new or used). Preferably outside. Should something catastrophic happen, you won't damage your house, office, etc.
 
I bought my 180g from craigslist. The main thing I wanted was to see it up and running with healthy corals and fish. I had a fear of buying a system that had copper in it. Also didn't want to buy someones neglected tank and deal with algae and nutrient packed live rock.
 
crawlerman said:
I bought my 180g from craigslist. The main thing I wanted was to see it up and running with healthy corals and fish. I had a fear of buying a system that had copper in it. Also didn't want to buy someones neglected tank and deal with algae and nutrient packed live rock.
Click to expand...

I'm close to you actually. Im in Wheeling, WV.
 
big_aug said:
I cant figure out how to edit my posts to correct typos...
Click to expand...

Not sure if you need a post count but when viewing your posts in the forum, you'll see an "Edit" button right next to the "Quote" button on the bottom right of your single post.
 
RobZilla04 said:
Not sure if you need a post count but when viewing your posts in the forum, you'll see an "Edit" button right next to the "Quote" button on the bottom right of your single post.
Click to expand...

Definitely a post count thing as I looked everywhere. I'll farm a few here :cool:
 
crawlerman said:
I bought my 180g from craigslist. The main thing I wanted was to see it up and running with healthy corals and fish. I had a fear of buying a system that had copper in it. Also didn't want to buy someones neglected tank and deal with algae and nutrient packed live rock.
Click to expand...

Are there any good shops in Pittsburgh? I can't PM you because it requires 10 posts.
 
big_aug said:
Im only a couple hours from Aquarium Adventure in Columbus. Mayne I'll just everything there.
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JMO, but NO!!!!!

IME, they are overpriced to say the least. Check out Aaron and the folks at Rivers to Reefs at Morse and Cherrybottom in Gahanna.
 
billdogg said:
JMO, but NO!!!!!

IME, they are overpriced to say the least. Check out Aaron and the folks at Rivers to Reefs at Morse and Cherrybottom in Gahanna.
Click to expand...

Thanks. Suggestions are needed. It will be a while before I buy anything but id like to have a lot of options when the time comes.
 
If you are careful about buying used you should be fine. If the seller isn't willing to fill an aquarium or plug in a pump, then walk away.

I set up a 180g tank I got used and everything I needed I got used or from 'going out of business sales' or our local club raffle! The only thing I bought new was a 1hp chiller, not many of them on the used market and the few that were out there were too far away or way too used!
 
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