Not Repeating Past Mistakes

[PapaDragon]

Hi! I had a 150g aquarium that I had to sell when I moved three years ago and I'm finally getting back into the hobby. I obviously don't want to make the same mistakes again, but unfortunately can't remember all the little annoying things that could have been avoided with a little planning. I ordered a new 180g 72x24x24 because one of the things I hated on my 150 was the width of 18". It looked like everything was against the glass. My aquarium stand was too tall. If you wanted to sit in a chair in front of it you got lights right in the eyes. So anything else I should start considering now?

 

[Retro Reefer]

Planning is the key.. try to think through every aspect of your build and look for potential pitfalls, ask for help with specific areas if your unsure. With each new reef I set up I also try to learn from past mistakes but everyone’s experiences and expectations will be different.

 

[Jrainey312]

Start considering what your long term goals are for the tank I'd say is number one that'll set the bar for what other equipment you'll need just my $ .02

 

[PapaDragon]

Planning is the key.. try to think through every aspect of your build and look for potential pitfalls, ask for help with specific areas if your unsure. With each new reef I set up I also try to learn from past mistakes but everyone’s experience and expectations will be different.

Thanks. I've already started looking at organizing all those cables under the stand.

 

[Retro Reefer]

Thanks. I've already started looking at organizing all those cables under the stand.

Yes! After 30+ years of reefing and a dozen tanks my current build will feature wire management and a cabinet for equipment.

 

[ZoWhat]

Sit in a taller chair.....solved

 

[dbl]

My one suggestion...if water changes are part of your maintenance program, think through that process as much as you can and plan accordingly. Everything from removal, replenishment and disposal. The easier it is to do, the more likelihood you'll actually do them.

 

[PapaDragon]

My one suggestion...if water changes are part of your maintenance program, think through that process as much as you can and plan accordingly. Everything from removal, replenishment and disposal. The easier it is to do, the more likelihood you'll actually do them.

That is on my list, but unfortunately my RO/DI unit is on the other side of my house.

 

[malacoda]

Buy the best equipment you can afford right up front.

Started my 24g with mid-to-lower end equipment to save a few bucks even though I 'could have' gotten better equipment if I had wanted to / known better. While it was a great learning experience getting to where it is today, I ended up spending more by replacing the original lighting, homemade sump, cheap skimmer, etc. with the more reliable and controllable stuff I have now.

Lesson learned: if I set up a second tank I'll spend a little extra upfront in order to actually save money over the long run.

 

[ehays1973]

Be patient and don’t try to rush things. That was my biggest mistake. I just wanted to get everything in there and get going. It can cause major problems. Also take advice with a grain of salt and make sure the people know their stuff.