What I am saying is that the amount of time required to properly maintain a larger tank is not best suited for someone who is a busy person. Generally speaking I do recommend larger tanks for the reason that you mentioned, but it sounds like you have a lot of other priorities in your life. Larger Tanks mean more equipment and more maintenance. For example my regimen with my 36 gallon bowfront was as follows:
1) Top off with RO water every couple of days
2) Do a weekly partial water change
3) Spend about 15 minutes a week with the MagFloat Cleaning the Glass
4) Change Filter media monthly
5) Test water every few days (ie Ammonia, Nitrite, Nitrate, Salinity, etc.)
6) Clean powerhead every 4-6 weeks
with my 90 gallon with 29 gallon sump
1) Top off with RODI water once a week
2) Twice a week change the filter socks
3) spray down used filter socks to get rid of excess waste
4) Wash filter socks in washer and let dry completely every 3-4 weeks
5) Every few days clean out and empty Protein Skimmer Cup and clean the neck of the skimmer about once a month
6) Spend about 30 minutes a week with the Magfloat cleaning the glass
7) Weekly partial Water changes
8) Test water every few days
9) Clean powerheads every 4-6 weeks
So it all depends on whether or not you have the time.
