Tank Size For Under Kitchen Cabinet

Newport · Mar 22, 2012

I am considering a Saltwater tank to go on my kitchen (granite) countertop. The problem I have is the cabinet is only 18 inches higher than the countertop. I am planning on positioning the tank in the corner of a counter so I probably would not have a problem with the length and width.

My concerns are with placing a tank under a wood cabinent without damaging the cabinet from humidity. Secondly, I see the problem of filter maintenance with the back of the tank being placed under the cabinet. I considered using some of the sliders used on furniture on the bottom of the tank, but I don't have a clue how well that would work once the tank was full of water.

I was considering a tank in the 20 gallon range give or take as needed. I would really like the tank to be an all in one system. The tank is mainly for the enjoyment of my two boys (3&5 years of age) so a Nemo is a must. My oldest son is also fascinated with sharks so is there a small shark that I could consider that would work in such a small tank? I don't care if it is a "real" shark as long as it looks like a shark.

Totally newbie so any suggestions would be appreciated.

Thomas

roblshan2000 · Mar 22, 2012

I would take a look at something like an Innovative Marine Nuvo 16 gallon. Nice dimensions and very sleek looking. Would fit great under the cabinet.

Innovative Marine

REEFKEEPER10 · Mar 22, 2012

Personally I would think twice about it on account of heat. My kitchen get way to hot when cooking to keep a reef in. You might have better control but what if your ac goes out. You still have to cook and that would most likely take out your tank in one or to days.

Newport · Mar 22, 2012

Jeremy,

Thanks for the concern, but heat from my wife's cooking is non-existent. I take for granted the microwave is pretty safe as we have a pretty large kitchen.

Figured if it was not going to be used for cooking might as well use it for something good like an aquarium.

Thomas

ObiQuiet · Mar 25, 2012

Hi Newport,

I'm thinking of doing the same thing, and found your post. Mine will be freshwater, though.

To protect the cabinet, you could attach a thin water-resistent layer under the cabinet, where it will be hidden. Something like rubberized shelf paper, or even a cut black trashbag as a backdrop?

The tank I'm considering is the Mr. Aqua 12g long (three feet long, only 9 inches tall), which will have clearence under my cabinets, which are only 13" over the countertop.

My main worry is getting into the tank. I'm concerned that I won't be able to slide it out from under the cabinets. Furniture sliders will change the pressure points. If the tank has a frame, that wouldn't be much of a problem. The one I'm considering is frameless, so I may have to have it on some kind of platform.

Looking forward to sharing more ideas & results.

Reef Breeders · Mar 25, 2012

I would put it elsewhere. The access will be way too much of a problem, and 18" is very little for a tank, let alone lighting. Find a nice place in your living room to put the tank and stand, and you will not regret it.