55G vs larger? thoughts?

saltwaterkitty

saltwaterkitty

Member
So thanks to everyone here and the recent poll I did lately, I've decided that for starting out, I will not go smaller than a 55g tank.
I had been trying to decide on a few on craigslist that were 110s but they sold so fast before I could make a decision (where in the house it would fit, etc). So now I am debating ... should I just go buy a new 55 because I am really looking forward to starting my tank? Or should I just be patient and wait for another used deal to come along?
I feel like now that I was planning the 110 in my mind and in my house, a 55 seems like I am "settling". Am I??
Is there anything I am overlooking ... or is a 55g a really great starter size tank?
Thanks everyone!!
Kat
 
videoguy

videoguy

Member
never settle. look at all tanks and spend the money up front and get it done right the 1st time. Get a wide tank, the extra depth will help in rock layout. A standard 55 is only 18 inchs wide, 24 inchs + will visually look better and give you more options. Also get a euro braced tank or spend alot of $$$ for the rimless. Having a center brace is a big pain when cleaning your tank.
 
turningtim

turningtim

Active Member
I don't know about all that? But IMHO get a 75 or 90 before a 55. A 55 is 12" front to back while the 75/90's are 18". If you want a 4' footprint go bigger. If you want 60" go 120. A bit more height than the 110. I wouldn't do a 4' any bigger than a 90. The 120 tall is a real pain to work on. been there.....
As far as euro bracing vs a center brace. Somehow the majority of us have been getting along just fine with center bracing.
 
wangotango

wangotango

Active Member
The extra 5" front to back that the 75, 90, and 110 have over the 55 is something that you will like.
Aquascaping in a 55 with a built-in overflow box is a pain...
-Justin
 
jackri

jackri

Active Member
Everything takes time in this hobby... so be patient and get what you want and you'll be happier in the long run and not look back wishing.
 
saltwaterkitty

saltwaterkitty

Member
Thank you all for the great information and feedback.

In looking at the 55, it DID look a bit narrow (front to back) ... that was one thing I really did notice.
I can't seem to find a local store that sells larger than a 55 though so I've never actually seen a 75 or 90 in person.
I'm also dealing with the fact that we live in a raised ranch ... and we have room for a larger tank DOWNSTAIRS (100" wall) ... but we aren't down there as often as we are upstairs and where it would need to go is on a back wall behind the couch so you can't even see it when you are watching TV.
The option for the smaller one is upstairs ... in the living room, in plain sight (72" wall) ... so I'm dealing with that as well. I want it more visible and in the part of the house that is used the most.
I guess I really do need more time to figure this all out ... but I am learning a tremendous amount by reading the boards day after day so thank you all for your advice!
Kat
 
natclanwy

natclanwy

Active Member
I have a 55g and they are definitely a pain to aquascape, I would definitely recommend the 75g or 90g over the 55g. You will have far more options for rock placement plus the extra water volume is always a plus.
 
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