Are all tanks created equal?

[Dante]

Howdy all,

I'm looking to get into a bigger system and I'm just starting to check out different tanks. The dimensions I like are 48x18x20, predrilled. There are quite a few manufacturers out there (Hagen, Seastar, Oceanic, All Glass, IA, etc) and I'm wondering what people's experience has been with some of these brands (or others) in terms of quality. What have you liked/not liked etc. I'm concerned about glass colour, seals, overflows, etc. Any comments would be greatly appreciated.

 

[hsosa]

Im not sure but if you can buy a used tank. save you cash flow . I got a 100gallon but I just got my 300gal. I got it for $850. I was looking at $1800-2000 +tax. Its in my garage. It works for me. I can spend the other 1k on lights and pumps.

 

[Len]

Empirically speaking, not all tanks are created equal. However, I've seen All Glass, Oceanic, LeeMar, and IA tanks that are going strong well over a decade. I think any of these manufacturers designs tanks that sufficiently well-built to outlast the lifespan of most of the critters we keep.

Each manufacturer will use roughly the same thickness and type of glass for their "standard" tanks. I'd always go with the tank with the thicker glass. A few like IA offering better/clearer glass such as Starphire. It costs a lot more, so it's up to you if it's worth it.

Sealwise, they all do the job well IME. A lot of these manufacturers also have similiar features in their new tanks such as beveled edges and parameter bracing on top. I'd look for these features if I was buying a tank myself. Some brands have fancier overflow designs, but I'm accustomed to the simple "box with a hole" design and don't have experience with these new overflows.

FWIW, I own a LeeMar 120g right now and am happy with it. Black silicon joints, top perimeter bracing, rear center 6"x6" oveflow (I'd have gotten a 6"x8" in hindsight), and beveled edges/corners. It's close to 10 years old.

 

[Dante]

A guy at my LFS said some tank makers keep their costs down by cutting up used building windows to make their tanks. Also, suggested some tanks can look a little green. Anyone know what exactly Starfire glass is?

 

[PeeJ]

that seems like a gamble to use used windows. i know if my tank fails, and my upstairs floods, im ganan sue like crazy. seems like a gamble to safe a couple bucks on used glass