2nd hand tank, good or bad?

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Natural_Born_Killer

Feeder Fish
MFK Member
Dec 2, 2008
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Netherlands
Hi :)

Currently I have a 100x40x40 fish tank. Got it from a friend who had to move countries. After having it I am now really into the world of aquaria and want to expand.

Been looking at all the options and what I wanted to know is what do you all feel about 2nd hand tanks that you can buy online? Seen a few really nice 200x50x50 tanks for a decent price (far cheaper than ones that are brand new).

Is this a sensible option or is it just a big mistake?

Any advice, tips, past experiences etc is all extremely appreciated :)
 
second hand tanks are much more reasonable than new ones. some need to be resealed but thats not a huge job. acrylic may need buffed but both materials last ages. good way to go in my opinion.
 
If you can find a good second hand tank for a better price than new, GO FOR IT. Out of my 8 tank going right now only 2 were purchased brand new.
 
Yeah, I think the guy at the petshop just freaked me out... kept going on about how and what could go wrong (leaks, lights not working, etc) and how much more expensive it would be to fix all that.
 
hahaha, that is probably true - that and i'm quite gullible...

well, any tips on when i choose the 2nd hander what to watch out for?
 
Natural_Born_Killer;2497080; said:
Yeah, I think the guy at the petshop just freaked me out... kept going on about how and what could go wrong (leaks, lights not working, etc) and how much more expensive it would be to fix all that.
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If it doesnt hold water don't buy it lights not working could be replacing the bulb or simply checking the wiring. Not very expensive at all.
 
You want something BIG. Leaking tanks should be bought depending on cost of materials to repair and time spent doing it. Sometimes those end up being worth it.
 
Out of my 20+ fish tanks only two are bought new, its funny that the one I bought new has been the only one to spring a leak.

Things to look out for....
1. Scratches, this is my number one problem because you basically can't fix them, its not worth time and money.
2. Leak or bad silicone. Ask if it holds water or when was the last time it held water, if were buying a big expensive tank I would prolly ask to see it filled with water. If you see that the silicone is peeling/falling off, it needs resealed even if it holds water it will get worst. Also algae can get in there in look bad. If it does leak or looks bad and your ok at DIY, then you can get some great deals. Many people don't know how to or don't want to take the time to reseal a tank and you can steal their tanks for cheap!!! Its not that hard to do check the DIY forum.
3. Broken or cracked glass , personally unless it a big tank and super deal (free) I wouldn't bother fixing it. Its really hard for me, I can never get the glass out of the trim and then of course you have to reseal the whole tank.
4. Make sure the trim is OK and the center braces are intact. If any braces that run over the water in the middle of the tank are broken the tank can bow and possible bow to much and break.

Hope you find some great deals!!!
 
seen quite a few of them online for about 300ish Euros (living in The Netherlands) size about 1.5 - 2m.

very tempted by the 2m ones but facing the issue of what exactly to put it on... but i'll cross that bridge when i get there i suppose.

most of the ones i've seen being sold are still full up and many even come with the fish still inside! so, i suppose that is a good sign.
 
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