What to look for in a used tank

[John08007]

I've always bought new tanks. I now want to go bigger 180-220ish. I am thinking it will be much more economical to purchase used. I'm curious, what do you look for to estimate the longevity of the seals? Do you pretty much just check to see that its not peeling away from the glass?

 

[T-J]

Age of the tank will tell you a lot. But yeah, look at the seals, see if there are any spots with "air bubbles" where it is pulling away. Glass scrapers can do that if not used carefully.
Also...scratches. And some scratches may not be evident until you fill it with water.

 

[Indytraveler83]

An important aspect is how the tank has been stored and used (if applicable).

Tanks that have held reptiles are usually a no go, as they can scratch and tear at silicone. (And frequently large tanks are converted to reptile use because they've had past issues holding water.)

Tanks that have been in storage shouldn't have been exposed to large temperature swings, especially freezing. This can damage the silicone in ways you can't see for sure.

 

[T-J]

An important aspect is how the tank has been stored and used (if applicable).

Tanks that have held reptiles are usually a no go, as they can scratch and tear at silicone. (And frequently large tanks are converted to reptile use because they've had past issues holding water.)

Tanks that have been in storage shouldn't have been exposed to large temperature swings, especially freezing. This can damage the silicone in ways you can't see for sure.

In addition to this great information, let me add this: ask if it was ever used for freshwater. Many freshwater treatments contain copper, which can leech out of the silicone into your tank. Copper is a no no in saltwater.