Questions About Buying New Bigger Tank

[Jeffsglo]

HI everyone,

I was wondering your opinions on pros and cons of buying a marine land 60 gallon tank with glass hood from PetSmart? After looking at the 55 gallon clear for life that costs $599.00. I was looking at their 60 gallon marine land for $299.00. I read some reviews that stated people had leaky tanks. I know you will have bad ones in any batch. But I also know to test the tank full of water outside first. If there is a leak. I can exchange it for a new one. I think I can talk my wife into the lower cost one. And my kids have glow fish in 2 different ten gallons. I would like to slowly buy what I need to set up this 60 gallon. And stock with 30-40 glow fish. Along with the three I have in ten gallon tanks. One ten gallon has one tiger barb. And the other two Zebra danios. They also sell a really nice stand for a reasonable price. I have been reading about canister filtration. And would like to do that. My basement is fully remodeled and I don’t want a flood. What do you think?

Thanks,

Jeff

P.S. I can wait for the half price sale. But do not know when PetSmart has it. Please advise

Hello,

I found that PetSmart has kits for sale. And since the 60 gallon I was thinking about might be too much for me. I am considering either the 20 or 29 gallon kits from PetSmart. I like the idea of upgrading so my glowfish will be able to have schools. I could have 5-7 of each kind. Tiger barb and Zebra danios. The 20 gallon is 129.00 but for 40 dollars more. The 29 gallon is $169.00. I could use most of my decor and replace the substrate. This is perfectly economical for me. And I found Petco has metal stands for $59.00. Perfect

 

[MikeRad89]

It’s a huge waste of your money. Petco has dollar per gallon sales regularly for tanks up to 55 gallons.

55 bucks, a 40 gallon filter, a 5 dollar bag of pool filter sand. Spend about 100 bucks for a tank 3 times the size.

Never buy a starter kit in any hobby, it’s always a complete rip off.

 

[Jeffsglo]

It’s a huge waste of your money. Petco has dollar per gallon sales regularly for tanks up to 55 gallons.

55 bucks, a 40 gallon filter, a 5 dollar bag of pool filter sand. Spend about 100 bucks for a tank 3 times the size.

Never buy a starter kit in any hobby, it’s always a complete rip off.

Thank you for your thoughts. I have two 10 gallon starter kits right now. And thought they were a great buy around Christmas time. I think I paid $59.00 for the kit. I like the kit idea. Because then I could transfer my fish to s bigger tank. But understand what you are saying. I am still researching. Is there a discount website for filters pumps hoods lights heaters etc? This kit has all of this. I’ve been trying to help my fish for a while but have been learning. I might wait until Black Friday or Christmas time. Although my tank problem is real. I was thinking problem solved. But will look on eBay and Craig’s list for used tanks. I’m just rambling now.

Thanks for your comments I really appreciate it. And will heed the warning. Garage sales are good also.

 

[Scott T]

I went with a 20 gallon tall starter kit and I feel I quickly ran out of room for what I would like to do with plants and having more fish. If I could start over I would have gone with the bigger option from the start.

I've also noticed that most used aquariums in my area appear to be way over priced, people are trying to sell them for more than you can go get a new one for at petco, sometimes even when not on sale. Having a few extra things along with it may be nice but I feel I'd rather get a new light and filter that I want. Some of the used ones listed for sale were even more expensive than the starter kits even.

 

[pugletfan]

Thank you for your thoughts. I have two 10 gallon starter kits right now. And thought they were a great buy around Christmas time. I think I paid $59.00 for the kit. I like the kit idea. Because then I could transfer my fish to s bigger tank. But understand what you are saying. I am still researching. Is there a discount website for filters pumps hoods lights heaters etc? This kit has all of this. I’ve been trying to help my fish for a while but have been learning. I might wait until Black Friday or Christmas time. Although my tank problem is real. I was thinking problem solved. But will look on eBay and Craig’s list for used tanks. I’m just rambling now.

Thanks for your comments I really appreciate it. And will heed the warning. Garage sales are good also.

Big Al's Pets , Kens Fish, Dr Foster and Smith, Amazon. These are all good online sources for aquarium equipment! I commend you for thinking about upgrading your tanks to do proper schools. . Take your time and keep asking questions and doing your research! I have not kept tiger barbs but I have heard that they do better in larger schools (not sure how many; I'll read up on that) because in a larger school aggression between them is dispersed so there is less fighting.

The advantage of buying your equipment separately is you can get exactly what you want. AquaClear hob filters work well, are very quiet, and have a lot of space for extra filter media. You want 8 to 10 x your tank volume of filtration per hour for a hob filter. So for a 29 gallon tank you want around 290 or 300 gallons per hour (gph) of filtration. Kits may come with cheap, undersized filters. Just something to think about.

A 20 long could be a tank to consider as well. This gives the fish more horizontal swimming space.

I'm not saying don't get a kit; they can be an option. Just think about your options!

 

[SmallFishGuy]

Maybe a site for 2nd hand? I brought a 57 litre starter for £160 when I started and just over a month or 2 ago I brought a 177 litre for £100 then just £50 for a new filter so literally 3 times bigger for cheaper

 

[Jeffsglo]

Big Al's Pets , Kens Fish, Dr Foster and Smith, Amazon. These are all good online sources for aquarium equipment! I commend you for thinking about upgrading your tanks to do proper schools. . Take your time and keep asking questions and doing your research! I have not kept tiger barbs but I have heard that they do better in larger schools (not sure how many; I'll read up on that) because in a larger school aggression between them is dispersed so there is less fighting.

The advantage of buying your equipment separately is you can get exactly what you want. AquaClear hob filters work well, are very quiet, and have a lot of space for extra filter media. You want 8 to 10 x your tank volume of filtration per hour for a hob filter. So for a 29 gallon tank you want around 290 or 300 gallons per hour (gph) of filtration. Kits may come with cheap, undersized filters. Just something to think about.

A 20 long could be a tank to consider as well. This gives the fish more horizontal swimming space.

I'm not saying don't get a kit; they can be an option. Just think about your options!

Yes, thanks! I am wanting to go bigger. But I want to make an educated decision this time.

 

[Buganjimo]

Go for a 29, the same length of a 20 long, but more gallons (higher and wider I think). Also, the kits are a waste, you’ll need to replace the lights if you want plants, and therefore have to replace the lid. The filters included are not very good and aren’t properly sized, so you’ll need to replace that too. You see what I mean? I’d just buy a tank on it’s own. I’ve heard petco has cheap tanks on their $1/gallon sale, I’ve never been able to get my tank then because I’m in Canada, but I digress. I suggest aquaclear filters for your 29! I love them.

 

[Bigfella]

Hello,

I found that PetSmart has kits for sale. And since the 60 gallon I was thinking about might be too much for me. I am considering either the 20 or 29 gallon kits from PetSmart. I like the idea of upgrading so my glowfish will be able to have schools. I could have 5-7 of each kind. Tiger barb and Zebra danios. The 20 gallon is 129.00 but for 40 dollars more. The 29 gallon is $169.00. I could use most of my decor and replace the substrate. This is perfectly economical for me. And I found Petco has metal stands for $59.00. Perfect

I would go for the 29, it'll give you more options in the future than the 20.

 

[Michael.j.gomez]

Hello, just found out Walmart has a web site & app. U can have items shipped to store located near you. Items cheaper than in store & most free delivery! You might want to give it a try. Hope this helps!

 

[pugletfan]

You can find more information here on tiger barbs on the Freshwater fish profiles page (Freshwater fish and invertebrates > Freshwater fish forums > Freshwater fish profiles). Also under Freshwater fish forums, you can find forums on tiger barbs. Sorry if you already know this!! Feel free to post questions here too and people with more experience with tiger barbs will chime in. They seem like a cool fish to keep as a school in a species only tank! I hear they are enthusiastic eaters!!

 

[Ernest Sacco]

HI everyone,

I was wondering your opinions on pros and cons of buying a marine land 60 gallon tank with glass hood from PetSmart? After looking at the 55 gallon clear for life that costs $599.00. I was looking at their 60 gallon marine land for $299.00. I read some reviews that stated people had leaky tanks. I know you will have bad ones in any batch. But I also know to test the tank full of water outside first. If there is a leak. I can exchange it for a new one. I think I can talk my wife into the lower cost one. And my kids have glow fish in 2 different ten gallons. I would like to slowly buy what I need to set up this 60 gallon. And stock with 30-40 glow fish. Along with the three I have in ten gallon tanks. One ten gallon has one tiger barb. And the other two Zebra danios. They also sell a really nice stand for a reasonable price. I have been reading about canister filtration. And would like to do that. My basement is fully remodeled and I don’t want a flood. What do you think?

Thanks,

Jeff

P.S. I can wait for the half price sale. But do not know when PetSmart has it. Please advise

If you get a warranty that protects you I'd definetly go for the 60 gallon....bigger is better

 

[ASHLEY R COOK]

It’s a huge waste of your money. Petco has dollar per gallon sales regularly for tanks up to 55 gallons.

55 bucks, a 40 gallon filter, a 5 dollar bag of pool filter sand. Spend about 100 bucks for a tank 3 times the size.

Never buy a starter kit in any hobby, it’s always a complete rip off.

Having just bought a Top Fin starter kit from pets mart I 100% agree! I've replaced the heater, thermometer, and hob filter. I'm even gonna replace the lid and lights but I have to custom make a clear lid bc my tank measures weird. The glass lid top fin makes doesn't even freaking fit.
Don't buy a starter. The stuff is almost junk. Not quite but close

 

[Kyleena696]

I've gone through four starter kits (two 20 gallons and two 10s) in under a year from them cracking, sides starting to blow out, and replacements arriving damaged. I personally will never buy another kit again. They're too expensive for the quality of equipment you receive, especially since almost everything has to be replaced.

 

[Algonquin]

I think it depends on a few things... for example, if you are buying a starter kit to use as a QT, and you got a good price on it, it would probably be sufficient. Also, if you are housing minimal fish or have a minimal bio-load, like a Betta, or a shrimp colony, again - the kind of filter that comes with a starter kit would do the job. If you don't plan on any live plants, the lighting isn't too big of a deal.

When it comes to the quality, that will vary from place to place. The selection of starter kits (in my area) at Walmart is terrible, and very low quality (numerous complaints lodged on the website). Would never buy there. Petsmart is a step up in quality and selection. Big Al's is a much better place for quality (higher prices, but you get what you pay for!) and selection is good.
So different things will suit different people's needs.

 

[Jeffsglo]

I've gone through four starter kits (two 20 gallons and two 10s) in under a year from them cracking, sides starting to blow out, and replacements arriving damaged. I personally will never buy another kit again. They're too expensive for the quality of equipment you receive, especially since almost everything has to be replaced.

Thanks, I have not had a problem with my two 10 gallon tanks. But am thinking of waiting for the dollar per gallon sale. I’d really like a 55 gallon. Then I would be done for a while. I have a sump pump in my basement floor level. And my wash machine has two separate hot and cold faucets. I have read about the python siphoning pump. And am interested in how I do water changes. Which I have an idea. But need more info. The 55 would be nice though.

 

[CanadianFishFan]

It’s a huge waste of your money. Petco has dollar per gallon sales regularly for tanks up to 55 gallons.

55 bucks, a 40 gallon filter, a 5 dollar bag of pool filter sand. Spend about 100 bucks for a tank 3 times the size.

Never buy a starter kit in any hobby, it’s always a complete rip off.

I have 5 starter kits, lol! I will say thougt my other tank with a proper light I got from Big Als is much better with a EheI'm heater

 

[Jay Chen]

When would be the next dollar to gallon sale anyway?

 

[CanadianFishFan]

well mind you in canada we only have petsmart and no petco so I'm out of luck in that.

 

[Mcasella]

Have you tried craigslist? Offerup? They might have a similar set up for less (getting ready to pick up a fully stocked 55, nice cannister filter, and a bunch of other stuff for 200$, not the best but the fish are worth that alone).
Otherwise go with the bigger setup, even 5 gallons more is helpful for stability.
Read up on how to clean cannister filters (different models, look up which one would be better for your tank etc.), see if that is something you feel comfortable with, I know most people accidentally flood the first time around just because of excess water coupled with inexperience. (So have a couple towels at the ready for this.)

 

[Niaa]

I'd look at the cost of individual items and see if you can get something better. Right now they have Fluval 40 gallon filters on sale for 29.99 (usually $80), so getting a tank and then that kind of filter might be cheaper.
As for the size, I'd go with the 29. Trust me, you are going to want more than you think you do right now. I have the 20 gallon and am going to upgrade to the 38g bowfront soon. I was able to successfully grow my plants in the 20 with standard lighting, but IDK about the taller 29g.

 

[TheShrimpBrothers]

Petco is having their $1 per gallon sale currently up to 29 gallon and then 50% off larger sizes. Tank only. But I'm not a big fan of the kits I like to customize my set up. But as mentioned above you can find some amazing deals on used tanks that size. You could pay $50 for a 55 gallon on Craigslist.

Not a huge difference between 55 & 60 really. Less than 10% larger. But if price isn't an issue then I agree with Mcasella and Ernest Sacco, bigger is better! Just be careful you don't end up with a 150 gallon with that way of thinking...

 

[Jeffsglo]

I checked Walmart online and found a nice 55 gallon aquarium stand that’s wood. That you can either have cherry look or black. It’s only $97.00. WOW!!!!! What a great buy. The reviews are great also. I’m getting it! This is the 1st step towards my 55 gallon aquarium build. But I have to check with the wife. But she will be fine.

They also have a 55 gallon aquarium starter kit. It costs $179.00 or so. But I have heard you all telling me to build piece by piece. I am excited to find this. Thanks to someone commenting on my post earlier. Thank you so much. I want to go with a canister filter. I’m thinking 2.

 

[Katie13]

The starter kit equipment is usually far from great. I’ve got the stand you found for my 29 gallon. It’s gorgeous and holds up great!

 

[Frozen One]

The starter kit equipment is usually far from great. I’ve got the stand you found for my 29 gallon. It’s gorgeous and holds up great!

I have a 29 gallon I need a stand for would mind linking that? I would greatly appreciate it

 

[Katie13]

I have a 29 gallon I need a stand for would mind linking that? I would greatly appreciate it

 

[Frozen One]

Thank you!

 

[TJG]

I was at Petco and they are having their dollar a gallon sale for tanks up to 75

 

[SegiDream]

I was at Petco and they are having their dollar a gallon sale for tanks up to 75

I think mine only does 10 and 20gs with the $1 per gallon sale. And their 40gb and 55 gallon are half off, but I don't remember how much those tanks cost at msrp.

 

[trainandfishguy]

Hello,

I found that PetSmart has kits for sale. And since the 60 gallon I was thinking about might be too much for me. I am considering either the 20 or 29 gallon kits from PetSmart. I like the idea of upgrading so my glowfish will be able to have schools. I could have 5-7 of each kind. Tiger barb and Zebra danios. The 20 gallon is 129.00 but for 40 dollars more. The 29 gallon is $169.00. I could use most of my decor and replace the substrate. This is perfectly economical for me. And I found Petco has metal stands for $59.00. Perfect

You still will need a stand and chances are the filter and heater would probably be adequate but not the best option. I too considered the kit but instead spent a bit more, got a stand, a great heater and filter. In the long run, you will probably save money going this route.

 

[david1978]

the only tank kit I ever bought was my 75 gallon tank. It was more lfs setup then manufacturer setup. Lol. Great setup quality wise, budget freindly not so much. It ever had a wood topper to hide the lights.

 

[Bigfella]

You still will need a stand and chances are the filter and heater would probably be adequate but not the best option. I too considered the kit but instead spent a bit more, got a stand, a great heater and filter. In the long run, you will probably save money going this route.

You could build a stand for a 29 gallon for about 20-30 dollars. Look on YouTube for instructions, king of diy had a few videos on it. If I could do it over I would save money on the stand, customize it and it will hold way more than you need honestly.

 

[Mom2some]

OP - I was just at Persmart & saw a 60 gal set for $249 & thought of this thread. I found the tank weirdly shaped - Super tall & not very deep front to back. I would check out the footprint of the tank you are thinking about. The tank (as it was on the stand) would have been too tall for me to easily reach the bottom of... I am an above average height woman. Just wanted to share my thoughts. Now off to glue my new Anubis & java fern onto decorations for my tank!

 

[Jeffsglo]

I think mine only does 10 and 20gs with the $1 per gallon sale. And their 40gb and 55 gallon are half off, but I don't remember how much those tanks cost at msrp.

Ok, I have my wife talked into buying the stand and the starter kit for 55 gallon tank. I have been trying to upgrade so my fish can school. I know this is not ideal for everyone. But it’s ideal for me. I can replace filter first as needed. I am excited to be upgrading. My kids are 6 and 7 yrs old. So they will be happy to help Daddy transfer their fish to the new set up. I will buy it tonight and set up soon. I am going to price individual components but this is ideal for me. Since I am still a novice.

Thanks guys, I have found s 55 gallon stand for $95.00 and a 55 gallon starter kit for $179.00 at walmart. I am going with this setup. It’s new. And a economical price. I am excited and can upgrade later on.

 

[pugletfan]

Thanks guys, I have found s 55 gallon stand for $95.00 and a 55 gallon starter kit for $179.00 at walmart. I am going with this setup. It’s new. And a economical price. I am excited and can upgrade later on.

What a nice sized tank!! Have fun setting it up!!

 

[SegiDream]

I guess people find value in convenience. It's just that you mentioned prices and getting a deal etc. The starter kit, it only includes 3 things... A tank, hood, filter correct?

If the items are valued separately (taking quality into consideration too) does it still add up like a deal? $60 for each item for example? Honestly am curious cause I have no idea the average cost for a new hood and filter on that size tank.

 

[Onlyashes]

The kits come with filter and heater also most the time but the filter will be underpowered you will definitely want a upgrade

 

[Jeffsglo]

Yes this kit comes with everything to get started. Submersible Hester hood with lights black and white. Two HOB filters also. The reviews are very good. Going back to 2008.

Yes this kit comes with everything to get started. Submersible Hester hood with lights black and white. Two HOB filters also. The reviews are very good. Going back to 2008.

Submersible heater

I was at Petco and they are having their dollar a gallon sale for tanks up to 75

Hi,

I don't see that my Petco has a sale. And if I look at Petco online they don't carry 55 gallon tanks. I looked at walmart and the price for just a 55 gallon tank is several hundred dollars more. I don't want to keep everything that comes with the kit. But think $179.00 is a good price for just getting the aquarium that I can build onto. I can buy separate components after that. How much do 55 gallon tanks cost when petco has the sale? thanks

Hi, I am checking online websites and cannot find anything close to the price that walmart has for their 55 gallon kit for $179.00. I can just use the tank and buy/personalize the rest. Can petco compete with this price? and I don't know about buying used. I have a finished basement and cannot risk it leaking.

It’s a huge waste of your money. Petco has dollar per gallon sales regularly for tanks up to 55 gallons.

55 bucks, a 40 gallon filter, a 5 dollar bag of pool filter sand. Spend about 100 bucks for a tank 3 times the size.

Never buy a starter kit in any hobby, it’s always a complete rip off.

Yes, I agree I have been looking at 55 gallons. I just bought online at walmart a 55 gallon stand. I am looking at the walmart 55 gallon starter aquarium kit . I could use just the tank and buy everything else seperately. I don't know how much a 55 gallon on sale at petco is?

 

[MissRuthless]

I've bought all my tanks used (15-30 or so, up to 55g) and I won't buy your tank if you're not willing to fill it up and show me there's no leaks. I think that's fair when shopping secondhand. It's also super, super easy, cheap and fairly quick to cut out the seal and reseal it if you feel so inclined.

I can't stomach the thought of what some of y'all pay for setups. My 55 gallon tank cost me $35 with hoods, lights, heater and a decent filter - I got it from an older couple who had had it running since the mid 90s and it's still going strong. Nice acrylic tanks can be had for awesome prices secondhand as well, and are much less likely to spring a leak with age.

 

[Coradee]

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