Getting an upgrade

[AADEGROOT]

I am newish to the hobby, I have been doing it for the better part of a year, but I have maintained a 29 gallon tank (successfully) during that timeframe. I went to my LFS and they were selling an older display set up that they had; 125 gallon tank, stand, lighting, sump tank, pump, and all the tubes required.

I guess my question is what do I have to be aware of going with a bigger tank with a sump that I may not have been aware of with my 29 gallon tank? And am I going too big to fast? Because we all know that patience is best in our hobby.

 

[wisereefers]

It depends on what you plan on having in the tank? Fish only or a reef tank? Fish only is easier than a reef tank as I'm sure you are aware. When you get into the bigger tanks, it's actually not as bad as you may think. It will be more expensive to maintain because you will go through much more salt, supplements, etc. Does it come with any live stock or live rock or is it just the equipment only? If just the equipment, live rock can be pretty expensive to fill up that size tank. If it's a great deal, you can afford it and have a great spot to put it, I would go for it. You can build it up with live rock and live stock little by little and get advice along the way. Also, just know that this setup will be very heavy and make sure what ever you put it on can support the weight. I have a ghl doser and a jbj auto top off unit hooked up to my and all I do is water changes every 2-3 weeks and test once a week.

 

[SeahorseKeeper]

I think going with a 125 is a great idea. You just want to plan everything out and ensure to make smart choices with your product purchases. It should be easier to keep water parameters in check due to the increased water volume.

 

[Scribe]

Like wise reefers said...what you plan on keeping in it will determine a lot. If you are going reef, the lights will be a big money item, followed by a protein slimmer. I think those are two of the bigger money sucks....a chiller could get pricey too. If you have got some extra cash on hand usually, go for it. When I went from my 29 to my 90 I couldn't have been happier...now I'm just waiting for a good time to make the jump to a 180 or 250.

 

[Coraloliseffect]

Bigger generally changes slower which is good to catch a problem. But is harder to correct (More water/additive/etc) if you let it go out of control. And of corse more $$$$$$. Also all maintenance takes longer since there is more of everything. Sumps in general make it easier and let you run better equipment than hob.

I am a bad one to ask about too big to fast. But I say go for it . Want from a 29 to a 300. But added stuff slowly

 

[AADEGROOT]

I plan on using it for fish only and than converting my 29 gallon tank into a reef tank. As for the setup that I am thinking of purchasing is equipment only. I was warned when I first got into this hobby that it was addicting, and everyone was right. I can't wait to get my new setup and get started with my new enviroment.

Thanks for the advice.