Tanks stand about to go - do I upgrade now?

[RichT]

The overflows are only going to take what the return pump sends them.

 

[Phyl]

But in Phil's case if he's only pushing 400gph through the 1 overflow that would be about 200gph through 2... not sure what that would sound like.

 

[calaxa]

I think it's human nature to try to push to the limit of the design, otherwise it feels like you are "wasting" that extra capacity. Hard to solve a human nature problem.

 

[blange3]

But in Phil's case if he's only pushing 400gph through the 1 overflow that would be about 200gph through 2... not sure what that would sound like.

If he has valves plumbed to restrict the overflow, he can run it like I do based on the BeanAnimal thread on RC.

You submerge the one return and let it start a siphon. Then you restrict it untl a small amount of water flows into the second overflow.

 

[JRWOHLER]

Could you also put one pump as a direct loop and the other into the sump?  120 is a good size.

 

[pgordemer]

So you can see why I am not sure.

Its a natural upgrade, but the cost of all at once is going to be tough.

Stand is a given, has to happen either way.

Return Pump - upgrade
Sump - OK
Skimmer - OK
2 part pumps - ok
GFO/Carbon dual reactor - OK
T5 lighting - OK
40-50 lb more rock - new purchase
120 gallon tank - new purchase

 

[mikem]

Phil. How about a 115. 48x18x30. Single overflow, used. Same footprint as your 90, but 30" tall. I happen to know one available. Probally the same price as a new stand.

 

[calaxa]

That might require upgrade on lights though being that tall.

 

[pgordemer]

Phil. How about a 115. 48x18x30. Single overflow, used. Same footprint as your 90, but 30" tall. I happen to know one available. Probally the same price as a new stand.

That brings on 2 problems, first I gain nothing in width which is what everyone says helps with the Aquascaping, and the 30" height could be a problem with lighting that extra depth.

 

[mikem]

That might require upgrade on lights though being that tall.

Phil's a softie man.

 

[calaxa]

Oh nm...softies will probably be fine.

 

[Phyl]

No way I would get a taller version footprint of the 90. That would be like having a 55g tall tank. *shudder*

Rock and return pump can wait. You don't need to go all at once.

Immediate:
120g tank, stand, canopy

Delayed:
Pump Replacement
Rock

The increase in rock is only necessary to cover the additional fish and if you leave a vertical column (instead of horizontal layer) you can add that next "mound" when you're ready with the additional rock which wouldn't require RE-scaping of the whole tank.

 

[pgordemer]

No way I would get a taller version footprint of the 90. That would be like having a 55g tall tank. *shudder*

Rock and return pump can wait. You don't need to go all at once.

Immediate:
120g tank, stand, canopy

Canopy I think would be an issue. My lighting (Current USA Nova Extreme) unit sits right on top of the tank, don't belive I can get a canopy on it.

If I go for the canopy, then I am back to replacing the lighting - which I do not want to do. (its ain't broke)

 

[Phyl]

Ohhhh. Ok. Although our 4' fixture sat on our 4' tanks and I still was able to use a canopy on both of them. I actually assumed you had a canopy already, but if you don't have to "replace" one then all the better!

 

[JasonR]

I might have a pump for ya
Its a old Sequence that I had running on my large system
It was pumping up from the basement
You can come and get it and if it works for ya throw me 25 bucks
I think I might actually have two one bigger than the other

Jason

 

[ChefPete]

Okay kids, as an Official Friend of Dorothy, and husbear to PhilG., not to mention co-owner of the house, I feel the need to put in my two cents. ;D

The reality of the situation is this: We can't fit a bigger tank in our house. Yes, I know it's only 4-6 inches more for a 120 gallon, but really, it just won't fit. The living room of our 1927 Dutch Colonial house is packed to the gills, pun intended. The other reality is that we just can't afford it. We've spent a lot of money lately on things like a new roof, new furniture, etc. and I could lose my job at any second now. So we need reign it in and save our pennies, dollars and everything else.

That being said, we do need help with replacing the current stand. And, I'm hoping that we can have as many hands on deck as possible when that day comes, which will probably be very soon. To sweeten the deal, we will have lots of food and adult beverages for those wonderful souls who come and help out. (If you haven't realized, I'll take any excuse to have a party!)

So no new tank, but yes to a new stand.

The Great, and Powerful ChefPete has spoken.
P.S. 100 points to anyone who gets the references, especially all you other Friends of Dorothy out there.

 

[JRWOHLER]

Very understandable...hope that one of the skilled craftsmen here can build you a kick butt stand. Win win for everyone. For sure some of the stands built are better then the store made ones.

 

[ChefPete]

That would be awesome! Though I should also say that if someone were to GIVE us a 120 gallon tank AND stand, etc, we MIGHT be able to make it fit...

 

[JohnS_323]

You can count on us to help out. Just let us know when and we'll be there.

I always thought that Friends of Dorothy was urban legend. I guess not! BTW: Not a personal Friend of Dorothy's but I know quite a few of her acquaintances!

 

[ChefPete]

We're kind of like the Freemasons. Everyone thinks we're just urban legends, but in reality, we're everywhere...