Is my desk strong enough for 30 gallons of water? (Picture included)

I have a ten gallon on my desk and I bought a 20 gallon. My desk is big and seems really stable. It's supported by a thick metal frame. Do you think it will be strong enough?

 

I guess it depends on the weight distribution and where you will be setting up ( directly center or side ) the tank. You're looking at around 8lbs per gallon roughly, so about 200 pounds total without gravel and décor, etc

Personally, I wouldn't do it unless you know for sure the manufacturer states it can hold that much weight. A regular desk is not made to support that much weight in general.

 

All you can do is test it yourself. Put the 20 gallon on the desk, add water to it, put something heavy to simulate substrates and see what happens. If it's creeky than forget it. If its stable than ok.

 

Lol what I do to test the strength is to sit on it or do whatever it is to disperse weight on it with your body and someone else's as well. It may seem silly but IMO its safer than adding water to a tank and all of a sudden the stand gives way and you have a big mess to clean. I learned that the hard way. I live on the 2nd fl and my neighbor downstairs had to suffer. Luckily they're cool peoples Since the average tank is more than the weight of a person, grab a friend and throw a twister board on it. Jk Jk! My 20 gallon long is about 225lbs. 25lbs of substrate and decor and 200 lbs of water.

 

Thanks! I did the test with the tank half filled. The two tanks, my mom and I, and some books confirmed that it seems stable enough

 

Alright! Seems you're ready to become a fish addict. Good Luck and post pics of the finished aquariums.

 

I agree with jwebbe. I'd be afraid that, even though everything appears to be supported initially, over time the weight may prove to be too much. Personally, I think the potential for loss makes it not worth the risk. I'd check the manufacturers weight limits and adhere to them. Or, you could add some additional support to the underside of the desk. Just my opinion.