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Glass tops not really fitting

6K views 34 replies 7 participants last post by  Boredomb 
#1 ·
Today I bought two glass tops from petco for my 55. When got home I realized one was cracked and the other seems too short. It doesn't fit in the area for the top. I can get it to sit above it, but it takes a long.time to get it centered. Should I return both? Also I'm confused on how to program my timer. The fixture I bought comes on as soon as you plug it in.
 
#3 ·
With regards to the glass top, If it was damaged in the box when you bought it then yes take it back. If it was something you did well it is up to you as to wether or not to take it back and try and get a replacement.
If you do not keep fish which are really known jumpers then you can always leave the tank open topped, just adds a bit to evaporation.

The timer could be that you have to pull the tabs up to shut it off and down for on, I had that issue with my timers for my saltwater tank.
 
#4 ·
Thanks I think we've figured out the timer, as for tops I measure them and they're a inch too long. Do you thing another brand might be better? I think I want to keep the tank covered, just in case.
 
#5 ·
If it is a standard 55 then try these.
 
#7 ·
No as I am in Canada and they dont ship here. I have Hagen tanks and it is very easy to get Hagen tops here.

The products they sell though are very good from what I hear on other forums and on here.
 
#8 · (Edited)
Hopefully they'll fit. I'll try to post a pic. On a funny note, I went to my Lfs and when buying for plants this is what happened: Worker: what can I get for you. Me: yes, Umm can I one of those crypts, two of the cabomba and that b)razilian penny wort Worker: You want WHAT? Me: (points to it) the brazilian penny wort. Worker: (Points to it) THIS??. Me ...yes...? Worker: Hay men this guy says this stuff is... what did you call it?? Me: ....brazilian penny wort?? Other guy REALLY??!!... we've been trying to figure out what it was all week. Worker: Call maggie and ask how much it is. other guy: Ok. My sister and I found this VERY funny. Here I am a 14 YEAR OLD and I know more than the store workers.... WOW
 
#10 ·
LOL, that does not surprise me at all.

A standard 55g is 48" x 13" x 21", so take this into account when looking for the glass top.
 
#11 · (Edited)
ok, I"ll make sure to measure both tops next time, but the top should sink in right? Not sit above it? I'm going to return these a order some from my lfs. I have these http://www.petco.com/product/107312/Aqueon-Versa-Top-Hinged-Aquarium-Cover.aspx but I've just notice a difference in measurements from the two. The ones you linked say a 24in for a 15tall 20, and two for a 55, but the Aqueon tops have the similar measurement for a 20in. Do think the 20in would fit? I could always measure it before buying it.
 
#12 ·
If they fit correctly they should be flush with the top of the tank rim.
 
#13 ·
Thanks, that's what they're not doing. If go back today I'll measure the smaller size. If that doesn't workout I'll see if my lfs can order to ones you linked.
 
#14 ·
did you buy two separate 24" tops or one package for a 55 gal that had four pieces of glass, two hinges, etc.?

in the US the vast majority of glass aquariums are either Marineland or Aqueon, the sizes are standardized and the parts should be interchangeable

the cover at the Petco link will be too small for a standard 55 gal, you will need 24"
 
#18 ·
I can't test the side to side, ones cracked. No they only one side fits in and the side to is too long( each top) like this it's not pushed back because I didn't cut the back. One side flushes and the other doesn't
 

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#19 ·
I don't know how your connections are or tool situation is but there is always the cheaper option of getting something like glass but easy to saw(with an electric tool) and make custom tops for yourself. That's what I had done for my tank. Granted the tops are not "clear" but there are holes cut in the right places to allow for light and for the the cords and hanging filters.
 
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#27 ·
Jayy if you get Plexiglass cut to make a top out of I would get Lexan as mentioned also don't go for the thin stuff. It really needs to be thicker or it will bow in the middle. I know because I had to do the same thing with my old 55 gallon tank. I used 3/4" think plexiglass. Now that I think about it again I didn't use Lexan cause of the cost but it would be better. Anyways just stay way from anything to thin and you will be fine.
 
#29 ·
Keep in mind the plastic will not be as easy to clean as glass, you can easily scratch the plexi also If your light sits to close to the plexi it will discolor it or give it a hazy appearance. glass will give you the best look and clarity over time. If you do go for glass make sure you order the top set for a 55 gallon it is a different size to account for the middle brace,
 
#30 ·
I've all tried glass tops and I really don't want to waste money on more, and them and have them not fit. I think I can deal with the plexiglass better.
 
#32 ·
OK , but you should be able to return any tops that dont fit right and get your money back. Just make sure you have the correct measurements for the plexi, even if you need to use cardboard to make a templet, ounce the plexi is cut its yours with no returns. good luck
 
#33 ·
All this could be avoided to if manufacturers could come together and have standard sizes for all tanks. haha thats not gonna happen though. I was picturing your cat fallen into the tank lol wonder who would be more surprised the cat or the fish?


Just a thought too, I now people who've had to replace the whole plastic top rim. maybe at some point this happened to his tank and its not from the same manufacturer as the tank itself?
 
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