So it begins... My first large tank! 55-72g build

[PNWBettas]

Hey yall! I'm going to start documenting my process of my first large tank build. Up until now the largest tank I have owned is a 20g. I have found two used tanks, 55g and 72g bow-front for sale in good condition. The 72g is only $50!?!? With the stand???!?!! A steal for sure. I'm picking it up later today. I was also looking at a used 55g with a lid, filter, and stand for $90. My conflict is I think my roommates only want a max of a 55 in the living room. So I might end up re-selling the 72. Any thoughts, suggestions, etc?

I will be posting here over the coming months of collecting everything I will need for the build. Open to suggestions for substrate, plants, equipment, any basically any tips you have for larger tanks

 

[Charlie’s Dad]

Congrats on the new to you tank!! You will love it. It takes discipline but the returns are so much more......

Again

 

[PNWBettas]

Well I did it, got the 72. Someone else snatched up the 55 sadly. Here’s what I got! I got the tank, stand, lids (one needs a replacement glass panel but it’s not a big deal) and an aquatic life light for $50. I already removed the gravel, going to give that away.

My question is maininly about the light. Has anyone used aquatic life lights before? It appears the bulbs are burnt out but is there a way to test it’s the bulbs and not the fixture without buying new bulbs?

 

[Addictedtobettas]

No experience with the lights.
Great looking tank though.

<—- envious!!

 

[PNWBettas]

No experience with the lights.
Great looking tank though.

<—- envious!!

Thanks! Now I gotta convince my roommates to let me keep it.... they said max 55 but here we are

 

[fanutd100]

Hey yall! I'm going to start documenting my process of my first large tank build. Up until now the largest tank I have owned is a 20g. I have found two used tanks, 55g and 72g bow-front for sale in good condition. The 72g is only $50!?!? With the stand???!?!! A steal for sure. I'm picking it up later today. I was also looking at a used 55g with a lid, filter, and stand for $90. My conflict is I think my roommates only want a max of a 55 in the living room. So I might end up re-selling the 72. Any thoughts, suggestions, etc?

I will be posting here over the coming months of collecting everything I will need for the build. Open to suggestions for substrate, plants, equipment, any basically any tips you have for larger tanks

From what I read on Aqueon manual, 72G and 55G standard has same length (48in) and similar height (21in vs 22in). I don't see how the extra 6-7in depth would be an issue.

72G is more ideal for plants since you have more space for background plants and swimming space.

Big tank would be more work in term of trimmings, but easier when it comes to water parameters. So you have lot of freedom when it comes to fishes. Just be careful with plants selection, since some plants need more trimmings. Would be difficult to do the trimmings with big tall tank.

 

[PNWBettas]

The

From what I read from Aqueon manual, 72G and 55G standard has same length (48in) and similar height (21in vs 22in). I don't see how the extra 6-7in depth would be an issue.

72G is more ideal for plants since you have more space for background plants and swimming space.

Big tank would be more work in term of trimmings, but easier when it comes to water parameters.

Yeah they are the same length for sure. I think the issue is its a small living room so they don't want me to have it come out too far from the wall which was why the 12in with on the 55 was nice. But getting a bow front this cheap is basically unheard of. I spend $90 on my 16g bow front and that was gently used even.

 

[LightBrownPillow]

Just tell your roommates that with the substrate, decor, plants, etc the actual volume of water in the tank will be ~55 gal. Not saying that's true, but maybe they'll allow it.

 

[Addictedtobettas]

The

From what I read from Aqueon manual, 72G and 55G standard has same length (48in) and similar height (21in vs 22in). I don't see how the extra 6-7in depth would be an issue.

72G is more ideal for plants since you have more space for background plants and swimming space.

Big tank would be more work in term of trimmings, but easier when it comes to water parameters.

I’m going to have to save this post, for later argh.. discussion on why I’m going with a 72 (or bigger).

 

[fanutd100]

Yeah they are the same length for sure. I think the issue is its a small living room so they don't want me to have it come out too far from the wall which was why the 12in with on the 55 was nice. But getting a bow front this cheap is basically unheard of. I spend $90 on my 16g bow front and that was gently used even.

The easiest test for light fixture is bulb test, using known working bulb.

Other than that you would have to do continuity and voltage test with multimeter. I don't know how test light fixture specifically though.

In case you can return it, I would suggest Beamswork led lighting. They're affordable and would do well for low tech planted tank set up. 48" is around $50. https://www.amazon.com/Beamswork-Ti...ds=beamswork+light&qid=1590894403&sr=8-6&th=1

They have other light built for high tech and all. That's beyond my knowledge.

 

[PNWBettas]

The easiest test for light fixture is bulb test, using known working bulb.

Other than that you would have to do continuity and voltage test with multimeter. I don't know how test light fixture specifically though.

In case you can return it, I would suggest Beamswork led lighting. They're affordable and would do well for low tech planted tank set up. 48" is around $50. https://www.amazon.com/Beamswork-Timer-6500K-Aquarium-Freshwater/dp/B01A9F85S4/ref=sr_1_6?dchild=1&keywords=beamswork+light&qid=1590894403&sr=8-6&th=1

They have other light built for high tech and all. That's beyond my knowledge.

Thanks! The bulbs in the fixture are kidna strange. There are 4 of them in it but they are super narrow. I also can’t find the specific one online anywhere, only newer ones. The fixture definitely fits a 48 in tank tho

but yeah if I can find bulbs I can always test it and return it if it doesn’t work, thanks for the idea!
This looks the closest to what I have. Idk where I can find replacement bulbs. It’s missing the parts that hold it above the tank but I’m sure I can find a solution

Aquatic Life T5-HO Freshwater Linkable Light Fixture - 2 x 54 W - 48" - Aquarium Supplies - Lighting

 

[fanutd100]

This looks the closest to what I have. Idk where I can find replacement bulbs. It’s missing the parts that hold it above the tank but I’m sure I can find a solution

Aquatic Life T5-HO Freshwater Linkable Light Fixture - 2 x 54 W - 48" - Aquarium Supplies - Lighting

If it's the one in the link, then it's a discontinued product.

Discontinued Product Manuals

So the workaround would be purchasing same size bulb from other brands, and try. You may even use regular bulb that fit to test before invest in aquarium specific bulb.

 

[PNWBettas]

If it's the one in the link, then it's a discontinued product.

Discontinued Product Manuals

So the workaround would be purchasing same size bulb from other brands, and try. You may even use regular bulb that fit to test before invest in aquarium specific bulb.

I believe I found bulbs that fit it. I just pulled them out and looked them up. It had one red and one white in it. I don’t really know if it still works and one bulb is $17-$20. I’ll probably end up doing LED anyways. Maybe I can borrow the tool that will tell me if it still runs a current so I could re-sell it if it is just the bulbs that are out. Each bulb was like 55w tho so it seems like a decent light.

 

[Lebeeze]

What are your thoughts for stocking once you get it cycled??

 

[PNWBettas]

What are your thoughts for stocking once you get it cycled??

I originally wanted Discus but I have since learned they need lots of water changes. My rental pays water but I don't believe he would be thrilled.... I also am a college student with 2 jobs and a heck of a lot of credits so I want to make sure I have the time to do it right.

I am now thinking a massive community tank. I have 4 other roommates and I want them to pick out a school of tetra or corys each or some other compatible community fish. I was also considering angles but I'm not set on it. Any ideas are welcome!

 

[Potatomancer]

I originally wanted Discus but I have since learned they need lots of water changes. My rental pays water but I don't believe he would be thrilled.... I also am a college student with 2 jobs and a heck of a lot of credits so I want to make sure I have the time to do it right.

I am now thinking a massive community tank. I have 4 other roommates and I want them to pick out a school of tetra or corys each or some other compatible community fish. I was also considering angles but I'm not set on it. Any ideas are welcome!

A massive community tank would be so much fun. I'm envious. If you do end up going that route, I vote some kuhli loaches get added in! I might be biased, but I think they're so underrated and your roommates will have to fall in love with the goofy things..

 

[PNWBettas]

A massive community tank would be so much fun. I'm envious. If you do end up going that route, I vote some kuhli loaches get added in! I might be biased, but I think they're so underrated and your roommates will have to fall in love with the goofy things..

Yeah for sure! with 72g I will have tons of space to work with! I'm going down to the new rental this week to measure the walls and make sure the 72g will fit. If it doesn't I will be so sad.... I have a backup 46g bowfront I'm looking at but its not the same as the 4ft long 72. Fingers crossed it works and my roomies let me keep it!

 

[idkausernamesoyeah]

lucky!!! i wanna do that but biggest i got is a 29. oh well! good luck

 

[Potatomancer]

Yeah for sure! with 72g I will have tons of space to work with! I'm going down to the new rental this week to measure the walls and make sure the 72g will fit. If it doesn't I will be so sad.... I have a backup 46g bowfront I'm looking at but its not the same as the 4ft long 72. Fingers crossed it works and my roomies let me keep it!

Bargain with some extra chores, haha. But hope it all works out, would love to see the progress! Biggest I've done is a 36g, working with pretty limited space in my apartment (technically my lease says I can only have a "small" tank, but that's a matter of opinion)

 

[PNWBettas]

Bargain with some extra chores but hope it all works out, would love to see the progress! Biggest I've done is a 36g, working with pretty limited space in my apartment (technically my lease says I can only have a "small" tank, but that's a matter of opinion)

Yeah im lucky my rental is a house! (after only 3 months in a townhouse I wanted out) Gives lots of options. The place also allows pets so maybe a cat will sneak in there if money and time allows.

Ill give updates on the "if it says or if it goes" around Thursday!

 

[Potatomancer]

Yeah im lucky my rental is a house! (after only 3 months in a townhouse I wanted out) Gives lots of options. The place also allows pets so maybe a cat will sneak in there if money and time allows.

Ill give updates on the "if it says or if it goes" around Thursday!

Yesss! Pet friendly is a requirement for me. Cats (and fish) have a way of sneaking right in.

 

[GlacialMold]

Good luck. Why buy a cat when you could buy more fish?

 

[PNWBettas]

Went to the Home Depot today. Picked up some plastic bonder, spray paint, and plastic to start working on fixing the plastic rim of the tank. It had a small crack in it I wanted to seal up and I really hate the tan wood colored plastic. I’m going to hopefully paint it tomorrow.

the other thing I need to do is fix the glass lid. The lid that goes with this tank retails $100 new and the one I have now only one piece of the glass is broken. (It’s like a 4 peice glass lid with hinges). Does anyone know where I can get custom cut glass? I called my local Home Depot and they do not.

 

[Potatomancer]

Went to the Home Depot today. Picked up some plastic bonder, spray paint, and plastic to start working on fixing the plastic rim of the tank. It had a small crack in it I wanted to seal up and I really hate the tan wood colored plastic. I’m going to hopefully paint it tomorrow.

the other thing I need to do is fix the glass lid. The lid that goes with this tank retails $100 new and the one I have now only one piece of the glass is broken. (It’s like a 4 peice glass lid with hinges). Does anyone know where I can get custom cut glass? I called my local Home Depot and they do not.

Do you have an Ace Hardware near you? They cut glass, at least at my local one.

 

[PNWBettas]

Do you have an Ace Hardware near you? They cut glass, at least at my local one.

I should. I'll give them a call and see if they do. Thanks!

Update........ I GET TO KEEP IT. I found a space I can manage to fit the 4 ft of tank and my last skeptical roommate caved!!! Yay! Super excited to start really investing in this build. I’m going to start keeping an eye out for sales on a canister filter, heaters, lighting, and aqua soil.

 

[Potatomancer]

Update........ I GET TO KEEP IT. I found a space I can manage to fit the 4 ft of tank and my last skeptical roommate caved!!! Yay! Super excited to start really investing in this build. I’m going to start keeping an eye out for sales on a canister filter, heaters, lighting, and aqua soil.

Woot woot!

 

[My300]

Thanks! The bulbs in the fixture are kidna strange. There are 4 of them in it but they are super narrow. I also can’t find the specific one online anywhere, only newer ones. The fixture definitely fits a 48 in tank tho

but yeah if I can find bulbs I can always test it and return it if it doesn’t work, thanks for the idea!

You can go to your local fish store and maybe they will have the bulbs your looking for. My store her is super helpful

 

[PNWBettas]

Also, if anyone had any recommendations for quiet and good canister filters, I have never used one before. Would love advice!

 

[My300]

Yesss! Pet friendly is a requirement for me. Cats (and fish) have a way of sneaking right in.

Also, if anyone had any recommendations for quiet and good canister filters, I have never used one before. Would love advice!

Love my Fluval cannister filters, super quiet and easy maintenance

 

[PNWBettas]

Love my Fluval cannister filters, super quiet and easy maintenance

Yeah it looks like those have decent reviews! I’ll keep a lookout for one on sale!

Yeah it looks like those have decent reviews! I’ll keep a lookout for one on sale!

Ooo wow its $199 on sale from $240. Should I wait?

 

[My300]

That is up to you, mine were about $500 each

 

[PNWBettas]

That is up to you, mine were about $500 each

Yeah I'm looking at the fluval 407. Its for 50-100g I think

Filtration and lighting have been obtained. Ended up getting them both used, but I’m great condition. I got a fluval FX5, which you may say is overkill, but trust me, once you do the math it’s not. I also got a set of 2 Current USA Satellite + LEDs. I’m hoping to get the really sleek tank mounts for them, but full price they are kinda expensive so I’m waiting to find them used or on sale.

this is what they look like. It’s a cool look,very sleek.

 

[My300]

Filtration and lighting have been obtained. Ended up getting them both used, but I’m great condition. I got a fluval FX5, which you may say is overkill, but trust me, once you do the math it’s not. I also got a set of 2 Current USA Satellite + LEDs. I’m hoping to get the really sleek tank mounts for them, but full price they are kinda expensive so I’m waiting to find them used or on sale.
View attachment 705831
this is what they look like. It’s a cool look,very sleek.

I have an Fx5 and an Fx6 on my 300 gall, super quiet and very efficient. I also have the same lights, 2 36in on top. Love them!

 

[PNWBettas]

I have an Fx5 and an Fx6 on my 300 gall, super quiet and very efficient. I also have the same lights, 2 36in on top. Love them!

I’m glad the lights are great! I read a lot of good reviews on them. I was able to get a set of the 48in-60in for $100. They just need a bit of cleaning but still super bright and no LEDs out.

I’m back! Now that I’m done with school I can really delve into the project. I’ve been working on re-finishing and reinforcing the tank stand. I’m not going to lie, it’s been a challenge. Sanding has taken me HOURS spread over 3 days. I just finished adding plywood to the back and I’m working on doors for the front. I’ll post more update photos once it’s done. I choose a dark brown stain and I’m super excited to see how it turns out.
Here’s the before ft. My pupper:

And here’s what it looks like now:


Okay I really went hard today. I finished everything but the doors!

 

[My300]

I’m back! Now that I’m done with school I can really delve into the project. I’ve been working on re-finishing and reinforcing the tank stand. I’m not going to lie, it’s been a challenge. Sanding has taken me HOURS spread over 3 days. I just finished adding plywood to the back and I’m working on doors for the front. I’ll post more update photos once it’s done. I choose a dark brown stain and I’m super excited to see how it turns out.
Here’s the before ft. My pupper:
View attachment 707445
And here’s what it looks like now:
View attachment 707443

Beautiful!

 

[Islandvic]

Great looking cabinet, turning out very nice.

 

[PNWBettas]

It has been quite a while but I’m back and more content on this build is coming soon!! I move in less then 2 weeks and I have the tank done, stand, lighting, filter, and finally dropped the $70 on the LED mounting brackets so it’s all coming together!! I just need to drop another $65 on the lid and then we have the basics covered!!! I have also re-painted the ugly wood colored rim on the tank to standard black and it turned out great. I will finish up the doors on my stand on Thursday and post a photo of the before and after!

Starting to think about substrate, plants, hardscape and how I want to scape it in general! Any ideas for more budget friendly places to buy from? Definitely wanting a dirted tank, I have organic potting soil, will that work?

 

[Charlie’s Dad]

I have organic soil capped with sand in our 75. I must admit had I had to do it over... I would not have used soil. It has not turned out as I had hoped. My fish turn it an root through it like swine and it makes a mess. I plan to do a makeover sometime. It will be an undertaking to say the least!

I hope you have better luck! Waiting to see your continued progress and photos.

 

[PNWBettas]

Alright here’s the before and after of the stand and tank! I have no yet attached the doors since I made a few mistakes and need to re sand and stain a few pats I was sloppy with. But it overall is a world of difference. As a reminder I got both for only $50!

 

[HayleyMartin]

I think your tank looks great, seeing your progress gives me hope that the one I have can come out nicely once I start on it ^^

 

[PNWBettas]

I think your tank looks great, seeing your progress gives me hope that the one I have can come out nicely once I start on it ^^

Thanks!

Alright here it is!!! The finished stand! I absolutely love how it turned out. I’ll post photos in the daylight tomorrow once I move it down to the new rental!

 

[Nickguy5467]

i almost got a stand like that one day but the one tooth look type thing holding 400lbs for forseable ammount of time scared me out of it

 

[PNWBettas]

Wow I’m awful! I totally forgot about this thread. But here’s the hard scape and substrate done. Waiting on a paycheck so I can get plants and fill this bad boy up.

 

[My300]

Wow I’m awful! I totally forgot about this thread. I’ve been mostly posting this on tiktok now. But here’s the hard scape and substrate done. Waiting on a paycheck so I can get plants and fill this bad boy up.

Looks great! Now needs plants, water and swimmers

 

[SnookusFish]

Wow I’m awful! I totally forgot about this thread. I’ve been mostly posting this on tiktok now. But here’s the hard scape and substrate done. Waiting on a paycheck so I can get plants and fill this bad boy up.

Great job! I forgot about this thread too lol, saw it start way back in lockdown and then lost it. Whats your tik tok?

 

[PNWBettas]

Great job! I forgot about this thread too lol, saw it start way back in lockdown and then lost it. Whats your tik tok?

I have a lot of other betta content as well haha

 

[SnookusFish]

I have a lot of other betta content as well haha

It appears you are famous haha

 

[PNWBettas]

It appears you are famous haha

haha it is something! I wouldn’t say famous tho

 

[SnookusFish]

haha it is something! I wouldn’t say famous tho

Good job your videos are high quality. Nice to see some aquascaping that 72g is looking real good.

 

[PNWBettas]

Good job your videos are high quality. Nice to see some aquascaping that 72g is looking real good.

Thank you! Can’t wait to post more. Making a plant order once I get paid on the 30th. Picked out a ton already!

Welp again I forgot to post here, but the tank is filled and running! It’s only half planted since my plant order came a lot sooner then my other order plants. Adding a lot more to it tomorrow. But here is what I got so far!

also man is the fluval filter quiet! This beast is quieter then my filter on my 16 gal in the next room over.

well my second plant order arrived today! hooray! I will be planting them tonight when I'm off work. Now its time to start cycling this thing and planning my stocking. Any ideas? I'm anticipating higher water hardness due to the zebra stone but the wood may balance it out. I wont be sure for a few more weeks till I get stable readings