Used fishtanks....scary or safe?

azzip4

How old is too old for a fishtank? Do they weaken over time? I can get a used 75 gallon fishtank from a family friend but its been sitting in their attic for 7 years unused. They had it for saltwater fish and I want to do freshwater...is that even safe if I clean it out well? Would you be afraid of the age of the tank? My husband thinks I should just stick to the original plan and get a brand new tank. Any advice or input? Thanks

daisycutter

all but 1 of my tanks are second hand(4 in use 3 sitting spare) as long as theres no pysical damage and the seals are in good condition its a real money saver buying used , a good clean and your away

Mikaila31

My first tank was bought new. I doubt I will ever buy any more new tanks. Used are so much cheaper, especially if I get tanks off the local aquarium society. Craig's list is good too. That 75gal should be fine. I'd check to seals though to make sure they are still in good condition. Also a good idea with used tanks is to fill them up on the drive way. Easier to clean them outside and its a safer place to make sure they hold water.

MBilyeu

1 of 7 of my tanks are actually new. The only reason that I would ever buy new again is for a custom size. Check the sealant, if you can get it to come off with your finger(not your fingernail), then you might want to re-caulk. Use any caulk from a hardware store that is 100% silicone, and does NOT say that it is mold/mildew resistant and you will be safe. Then after letting it dry for 3-5 days, do a water hold test somwhere that you wouldn't mind if it leaked(outside?). If is passes that, you should be good to go!

willow

just to add,and you probably know this already,
so i'll say this for folks who don't.
make sure the tank is sitting on a level surface outside when you fill with water,
any stones underneath or uneven pavement can crack the tank.

1077

Good tip Willow! I was going to suggest placing an old rug or blanket under the tank for just that reason. I have a 75 gal tank that's nearly 20 years old.

willow

thanks :)
i just had an awful vision of someone taking their old tank into the garden,
filling it up and it cracking right across the bottom
i'd be gutted.

Katydid

I'd take the 75 gal from the friend, If it leaks or has got some sort of problem, the only thing you wasted was a little time, and if it works, what a huge money saver!

daisycutter

i had my 150g break outside before i got the chance to use it it cost me nothing (another used)but i doubt i could replace it for the same price.....

bigali

would love to get a tank that big, the advice on leak test is great i set up a 10g tank in my den and 3 days later all the water leaked out onto the floor.. thank god only a 10g .. test it in garage or something first,, my advice