I know the feeling. The way I look at it is, if they’re happy it’s worth the sacrifice. I would avoid any correction, all to often I am driven another direction and I should just go with what’s best.
That’s a personal taste question I do a lot of the work myself on everything else I build my own sumps my own stands and canopies, custom tanks are necessary where I live for any tank over 6 ft long , all of my large tanks are acrylic but everything 75 gallons or smaller are glass ,your glass tank is really nice that’s your piece of art . Ps I am setting up a 75 gallon saltwater reef tank sps , acropora I can’t wait
Hi David, too me the cost of tank is irrelevant as long as you’re happy with your purchase, it doesn’t matter what anyone thinks about the cost. More power to you for doing what you want, and to me that’s priceless. It’s a beautiful tank and set up ,congrats on it , and wish you all the success with it mate . Just look forward to updates on it.
@@CichlidCharmer I’m having a go at a plywood aquarium nothing big , just a practice build for a 8ft x3ft x3ft once I perfect the building process. MTS is really addictive David thanks to your vids . Only kidding mate, look forward to the next one.
@@stefanosahretis5075 That's exciting! If I built one in the garage, that wouldn't be such a threat. Hmmm.... that's an interesting idea. Looking forward to hearing about yours. 8x3x3 is a great size!
I am a sump advocate and love them on my 500 and 340 gallon aquariums. I can not imagine using a sump where it is not glass or acrylic. Being able to see into the sump from all angles is something I must have. Baby fish, shrimp, plants and a center refugium make my sump a fun and interesting place to view.
David , This tank is a dream but so so expensive. I recently upgrade my 98 gal to a 120 gal acrylic tank. I got it used off the market place. It’s a 5ft tank and it has the filtration behind the tank. That way you don’t have to worry about leaks. I have two pumps pumping the water back in from the other side. The guy I bought it from had it as a salt water tank. So I cleaned it up and hosed it out. There were a lot of scratches on the tank so I buffed them all out the best I could. I think the tank looks great now and it’s housing my CA SA cichlids. That extra ft makes the cichlids happy. I also added a new canister filter a Sun Sun hw 3000 the filter is really nice and moves a lot of water. I like that I can hide my heaters and everything in the back of the tank. Even my canister filter suction and return. Is in the back. I like not being able to see all the stuff. I feel much better having an acrylic tank and don’t have to worry about seals breaking. My black tiger Oscar is getting big he’s already grown an inch in less than 4 weeks. I love him though all black with some orange spots.
@@CichlidCharmer oh yeah I have learned a lot from your channel as well and it is very highly produced well and the camera work you can tell your artistic. I am so glad you got into CA SA cichlids aren’t they fun? So personable.
Hi, I love your videos, and you, lol. I am sorry that this has not got anything to do with what you are talking about but there are tons of videos about water changes but no one says how they get the clean water up to the same temperature as the water in the tank before putting it in. I have to fill up buckets and check the temperature of the water in the bucket and the tank, to make sure they are the same. Takes a very long time! I look forward to all your new videos. Wish you did them more often. Thanks Mandy Green , Portsmouth, U.K.
Hi Mandy! So I have controllers that keep my tanks at a specified temperature. I highly recommend using them. The one I use is in the video description. So then I just get the temp to match coming out of the faucet , using my Pampered Chef thermometer. Super easy. Thank you for such high praise of the channel, Mandy! 🥰
You did great job on stand, I would have made a plywood tank, saved a ton of money and could be equally as beautiful. The tank and scape are beautiful, fish selection also
Custom is the best, no questions. I have once bought a 125 like your 75 gallon and because it was brand new I expected way more. So I tried to return it to get another one just like, maybe even the same one. I ended leaving it at the store and bought a used 125 and resealed it. Cost me 120$ with the silicone and nearly all my finger tips lol! Warranties on glass are nice sounding but I bought glass art before that cost about 5000$ and when it broke… I contacted the artist to see if it could be repaired and she offered to make a paper weight from it… not really the same but glass is glass and unless you make that deal with yourself not to get upset when things happen I would avoid it. I guess the same could even be said about fish for that matter, but fish keeping is not for the faint of heart either, nor a bruiser. I would get 2 if I had the help and the space. Great video and thanks for sharing again Dave! Stay happy and healthy my friend!!!😊❤
All so true. Acrylic would be great, but I'll tell you, I sure love cleaning the glass without all that fear of scratching it. If I come home to a house full of water, I know I'll regret it lol
acrylic is a good material for low weight lids but unless you pay for impact resistant materials it’s a waste of time with jumpers. Glass tempered or not is much stronger I agree! Acrylic is just light weight, and I wasn’t saying anything more than glass will break, it’s not just acrylic and I hate to be this guy, but I’ll say it, the build quality of what’s on the market has dropped so much that just like in my story prior, I’m not calling my self a professional or a robot but I f have had 100’s of tanks so the silicone seams are either good or they get replaced. It’s just finicky work when I’m trying not to scratch the glass with razors and occasionally a finger will get nipped because of rushing. It saves money which gave back to the fish house but I’m just about finished with brand new things. Everything is in need or a quick correction from molds or the moment it becomes enjoyable it breaks. As a former production worker I can tell you for sure standards have dropped just in the sake of showing up. I say former because that machine will take your life one turn of the wheel by one hand feeding it. My fish and my pets and my business is my priority now and everyday I get to tell people, relax, why? Because there is so much information out there people can hardly form sentences to explain it. So when I say relax I get to too, because 99% of the time the person asking is just looking for confidence and not another fear to think about. So no worries about your setups, there would be stress marks and fractures occurring that would signal to you to not use or stop using if there was a problem, or else space is always limited and if you didn’t put a tank there my wife would advise you to put a book shelf of r or sewing bench there and it would go unused. Big tanks are great, Be happy you can do these things, I have had to multiple times remove tank just so it wasn’t a target of some junk. Meaning the fish too… I’m sticking with my 15 tanks because at least my fish, my gecko, or my birds don’t complain and fuss. This being said I have so much a pet store is likely in my future, Ps I had to stop following the channels because it’s like hitting the reset button in my brain every two minutes and like mentioned prior I’m too busy to restart or redo things out of whim Stay happy and healthy,😊 ❤
Thank you. A very informative video and you brought some issues to my attention. I'm planning on buying a Custom Aquarium 250 and I'll definitely ask about the upgrades. And yes very expensive but it is my dream tank. Thank you again
Great video! That's a dream tank for most people for sure. Sounds like the website you got the tank from should have better "Noticeable" upgrades when building the tank OR if you did this all over the phone, maybe the sales personnel need more training to mention upgrade options and the reason for the particular upgrade. I wouldn't buy a tank from any big box store for sure. As i did buy from a local fish store that's been around for 50 years and they really know their stuff and have great products and recommendations.
I have tanks with 260 to 450 liters for more than 50 years now. They are from the German firm Juwel, market leader for aquariums in Europe. They are assembled on a semi industrial scale, half with robots. My oldest one from this firm is from 1968 with silicone. Thats more than 50 years old! Then the others 30 years old, 20 years old etc. Never a problem whatsoever with leakage or otherwise, and they are very complete and price competitive. I think silicone can last forever if applied in super clean and industrial conditions. Also you can get all the parts from the last 20 years or so. I changed only the light beams from t8 to t5 to Led. If available in the US you should take a look!
Here’s a handy hack,tape off the glass on the aqueon aquarium,one strip on each side of the corner,paint the corner black,makes a huge difference,no more looking at the unsightly corners
Brilliant! I might be replacing that tank soon, but if I don't, I love this! And so easy to do. If I do it, I'll include it in a Fish Home Refresh video and credit you.
For a cube that keeps hundreds of gallons of water from flooding your house, I think it was a good buy, it obviously makes you happy. That warranty was a scam imo, too much of a hassle to make it valid. As always, tank looking beautiful, great work!
So cool to see the carpintis and oscar growing slightly bigger with every video! I got 2 oscars in a 200g with some other south americans, one unfortunately passed because of stress from the others... The other is doing great, grew from 1.5-3 inches in 2.5 weeks 🤩
I think it's worth it !!! I have a Planet Tank it is well made, cost a little more, I will do it again. In a year I'm going to purchase a tank, trying to decide to going with a custom aquarium or a plant tank.
I love my custom 90gal tank, it was a lot of money, but I feel safer with it over the pet store tanks thou I purchased the thicker glass ones with black seams the custom one is just a better-looking and stronger built tank. I'm looking again into another custom tank for a reef set up, it has been on my mind calling my name "Polly go for it, you need to kill off $$$ of fish again" thank you for showing us your sump set up and what to look for since I'm a bit scared to start this process. Oh, just another project yet again so my family can put me into a nut home sooner than later. Thanks for another great video I really enjoy them.
@@CichlidCharmer Nah, I'd rather make comments on your channel, you're the expert video taker. I now might start small on the saltwater tank thing, like one of those 40-60gal cubes. Still up in the air. Thanks for your channel keep the fun going.
For large tank absolutely you want a custom tank from a very reputable company. I own a custom Aquarium and I've had it now for going on 4 or 5 years I'm totally happy with it. I did how ever spring for the whole package Tank stand and sump for sure very expensive. I also have 9 other smaller tanks from a 125 down to a 5 1/2 gallon tanks all of those are just store bought tanks except my 125 I got off the market place so don't know where it came from. But you had great points on the tank and yes I have those same kind of valves on my overflow box and they are for sure tough to get tuned just right.
Everything looks great, the way they pay attention to the details do make them a higher grade, but that cricket alone would drive me crazy. I've looked into Custom Aquarium tanks and have come to the realization that I can't afford them, maybe one day I'll have a huge 240 or higher gallon, but not anytime soon.
Your brave I’d never have a glass tank that big I’ve never had a issue with scratches on acrylic microfiber cloths are your friend imo only positives with acrylic other than cost
I feel like these amazing high end tanks cost really comes down to the transport. Thats the real value . Picked up many tanks off facebook marketplace with a buddy and his truck and it isnt fun or easy and obviously i pay them for their time.
Hey Dave, I too have contemplated getting custom aquarium. I am working on getting a 210 to 250 gallon tank for my Malawi Cichlids that are growing out in my 75 gallon tank. The prices make me pause but i think they are probably worth it.
If you buy aqueon from a good LFS, they have a lifetime warranty and the LFS handles the warranty-if you use an aqueon stand. Also the quality from aqueon is better from a good LFS vs a box store. A few years ago, I bought an aqueon 4ft 120 with a stand from a reputable LFS and it was $1200 delivered with a stand, black silicone and the seam work was flawless
@@CichlidCharmer I think it depends on the LFS, but I was told by a friend in the business that aqueon makes tanks specifically for box stores and that’s how they’re able to sell them so cheap
If I had spent that much on a tank, I would have gotten the same kind of stand from them. I wouldn’t be able to look at that stand the way it is. My OCD would kill me. But I’m sure, the price tag on the aquarium alone was a huge hit. Either way, your tank is awesome. And your tips were great for anyone wanting to go that route.
If you're thinking the stand is finished, I still have to do the finish work. It will have stained 1x6 trim and doors which will make it much more beautiful than their stands. But that's okay if you would prefer their stands. I wanted something different.
@@CichlidCharmer ah ok, that makes sense. Finished I’m sure would look amazing, I was just referring to its current state. Can’t wait to see how you finish it up.
@@dj.excess Thanks for responding back. I actually mentioned your comment in my next video, but I didn't indicate it was you. I had some fun with it, but I totally understand what you were thinking (my wife doesn't like the look of the stand as it is for sure!). I respect what you have to say, even if I throw a funny spin on it.
I sure hope you don’t have to buy the tank again like I did. I have a 10’ custom aquarium and it last 18 months before the bottom silicone seam failed.it was on a non custom aquarium steel stand so the denied warranty for that reason.
@@CichlidCharmer cant wait lol. Its not cheap but i think it'll be worth it in the long run. Especially for a tank this size i didn't want to go cheap lol
What about mid high price like waterbox , ADA and UNS? Might not as expensive as a custom made for a smaller tank , but much nicer than a Aqueon tank .
I recently had to down size my tanks only because my schedule for life had to change for better of my son. If i could get one last tank, it'd be something like this definitely
@@CichlidCharmer I have one of the 75 gallons up for sale now, and rehomed a few to clear out a 75 for breeding a young pair of red terrors. I still have the cuban in a tank and yellow jacket in another. Trimac and jack dempsey in 125 and my gallon which I'll be selling that had my angels. I've culled down on the stock to make this move happen and it sucks. Maybe at the beginning of next year I can try and wiggle in a 6ft tank.
@@dennispeleg7843 That really DOES suck, Dennis. The only silver lining is that you get to start up some new tanks once you move. That's always very exciting.
@@CichlidCharmer You can always add botanicals and target feed them! My recommendation is just adding blanched zucchini and unsalted canned green beans!
@CichlidCharmer I hear you, especially with one the size you have here for sure , wonderful tank it would be dream! I had all my tanks in my dining room till I moved them to the garage. Appreciate the video
Nice tank, yea their sump design is not ideal. About that cricket, cover you sump then do 1 shot of bug spray, will force it out then you can kill it. My tank stand is in the garage, it happens to me all the time.
Just trying to understand, you spent so much on the tank but not get a stand from them? Was the stand as expensive as the tank? Also I they don’t give a good warranty? It’s surprising
I wanted my stand to look like the others. I haven't had time to do the finish work yet. Their stands aren't cheap. It would have been several thousand extra and or wouldn't have matched the stand sitting right around the corner from it. The warranty only applies if you use their stands.
This woulda been the perfect tank for a large reef setup!! If you can spend 5grand on a tank alone, then I dont see any reason why you wouldnt be able to afford a reef/marine setup. It really isnt that complex as what ppl make it seem to be
You know I'm just not that interested in salt water/reef tanks. They're gorgeous, but they don't do much for me. I totally get why they are so popular though.
You don't need tempered glass in aquatics. You're not gonna bang everyday in an aquarium but over time, if there is any bending, then tempered glass will fail before the normal glass because of the brittleness.
I'd absolutely go with a better brand on a tank that big. The smaller tanks i am a Seapora snob and will not buy an aqueon as seapora center braces are the best outta the less expensive brand.
@@CichlidCharmer I have a dog and crickets find a way in every now and then. They love the back of the tank and it drives me crazy. The tape works great…
I hope your wife understands that you could be a golfer in spin three times as much money but no return. Do I think this was an expensive investment, and wise? Not at all. Maybe you like old Chevy horsepower. There’s about 60 grand for a great 70 SS Chevelle. I think you’re doing just fine
One thing I am always thinking is with the amount of money you are spending on fish and the huge size of your tanks is why you don’t have salt water fish. I have an electric blue acara and nyererei cichlid and they are both fully colored up and look really nice but still they are nothing compared to salt water fish of the Indopacific region. I have been scuba diving in the Similan islands and Indonesia and those experiences were mind blowing. If I had the money, time and tank size I would get salt water tanks for sure.
I get it. For some reason, saltwater just doesn't interest me. Even when I go the the LFS and see their 20 or so tanks of cool saltwater fish, I hardly ever even glance at them. Weird, I know. But I'm pretty weird.
Worth it? Would you go custom, or are the standard tanks from the big box stores good enough? Let me know!
I know the feeling. The way I look at it is, if they’re happy it’s worth the sacrifice. I would avoid any correction, all to often I am driven another direction and I should just go with what’s best.
That’s a personal taste question I do a lot of the work myself on everything else I build my own sumps my own stands and canopies, custom tanks are necessary where I live for any tank over 6 ft long , all of my large tanks are acrylic but everything 75 gallons or smaller are glass ,your glass tank is really nice that’s your piece of art . Ps I am setting up a 75 gallon saltwater reef tank sps , acropora I can’t wait
@@davidleach4689 Thank you! Have fun setting up that reef tank!
I have had a reef tanks before and I miss it however I still love my cichlids there is nothing more gratifying then seeing corals grow
Hi David, too me the cost of tank is irrelevant as long as you’re happy with your purchase, it doesn’t matter what anyone thinks about the cost. More power to you for doing what you want, and to me that’s priceless. It’s a beautiful tank and set up ,congrats on it , and wish you all the success with it mate . Just look forward to updates on it.
Those are soothing words to hear, Stefanos. I'm very happy with it and I don't trust myself to make my own tank lol
@@CichlidCharmer I’m having a go at a plywood aquarium nothing big , just a practice build for a 8ft x3ft x3ft once I perfect the building process. MTS is really addictive David thanks to your vids . Only kidding mate, look forward to the next one.
@@stefanosahretis5075 That's exciting! If I built one in the garage, that wouldn't be such a threat. Hmmm.... that's an interesting idea. Looking forward to hearing about yours. 8x3x3 is a great size!
I am a sump advocate and love them on my 500 and 340 gallon aquariums. I can not imagine using a sump where it is not glass or acrylic. Being able to see into the sump from all angles is something I must have. Baby fish, shrimp, plants and a center refugium make my sump a fun and interesting place to view.
David ,
This tank is a dream but so so expensive. I recently upgrade my 98 gal to a 120 gal acrylic tank. I got it used off the market place. It’s a 5ft tank and it has the filtration behind the tank. That way you don’t have to worry about leaks. I have two pumps pumping the water back in from the other side. The guy I bought it from had it as a salt water tank. So I cleaned it up and hosed it out. There were a lot of scratches on the tank so I buffed them all out the best I could. I think the tank looks great now and it’s housing my CA SA cichlids. That extra ft makes the cichlids happy. I also added a new canister filter a Sun Sun hw 3000 the filter is really nice and moves a lot of water. I like that I can hide my heaters and everything in the back of the tank. Even my canister filter suction and return. Is in the back. I like not being able to see all the stuff. I feel much better having an acrylic tank and don’t have to worry about seals breaking. My black tiger Oscar is getting big he’s already grown an inch in less than 4 weeks. I love him though all black with some orange spots.
Love hearing about your tanks, Jeremy. Isn't it crazy how fast those oscars grow??
@@CichlidCharmer oh yeah I have learned a lot from your channel as well and it is very highly produced well and the camera work you can tell your artistic. I am so glad you got into CA SA cichlids aren’t they fun? So personable.
Very nice
@@jeremymoore450 That's a huge compliment -- thank you! Yes - I love my CA and SA cichlids. They are definitely my favorite right now.
@@davidleach4689 Thank you!
Hi, I love your videos, and you, lol. I am sorry that this has not got anything to do with what you are talking about but there are tons of videos about water changes but no one says how they get the clean water up to the same temperature as the water in the tank before putting it in. I have to fill up buckets and check the temperature of the water in the bucket and the tank, to make sure they are the same. Takes a very long time! I look forward to all your new videos. Wish you did them more often. Thanks Mandy Green , Portsmouth, U.K.
Hi Mandy! So I have controllers that keep my tanks at a specified temperature. I highly recommend using them. The one I use is in the video description. So then I just get the temp to match coming out of the faucet , using my Pampered Chef thermometer. Super easy. Thank you for such high praise of the channel, Mandy! 🥰
You did great job on stand, I would have made a plywood tank, saved a ton of money and could be equally as beautiful. The tank and scape are beautiful, fish selection also
That's a great option. Thank you 🥰
Custom is the best, no questions. I have once bought a 125 like your 75 gallon and because it was brand new I expected way more. So I tried to return it to get another one just like, maybe even the same one. I ended leaving it at the store and bought a used 125 and resealed it. Cost me 120$ with the silicone and nearly all my finger tips lol! Warranties on glass are nice sounding but I bought glass art before that cost about 5000$ and when it broke… I contacted the artist to see if it could be repaired and she offered to make a paper weight from it… not really the same but glass is glass and unless you make that deal with yourself not to get upset when things happen I would avoid it. I guess the same could even be said about fish for that matter, but fish keeping is not for the faint of heart either, nor a bruiser. I would get 2 if I had the help and the space. Great video and thanks for sharing again Dave! Stay happy and healthy my friend!!!😊❤
All so true. Acrylic would be great, but I'll tell you, I sure love cleaning the glass without all that fear of scratching it. If I come home to a house full of water, I know I'll regret it lol
acrylic is a good material for low weight lids but unless you pay for impact resistant materials it’s a waste of time with jumpers. Glass tempered or not is much stronger I agree! Acrylic is just light weight, and I wasn’t saying anything more than glass will break, it’s not just acrylic and I hate to be this guy, but I’ll say it, the build quality of what’s on the market has dropped so much that just like in my story prior, I’m not calling my self a professional or a robot but I f have had 100’s of tanks so the silicone seams are either good or they get replaced. It’s just finicky work when I’m trying not to scratch the glass with razors and occasionally a finger will get nipped because of rushing. It saves money which gave back to the fish house but I’m just about finished with brand new things. Everything is in need or a quick correction from molds or the moment it becomes enjoyable it breaks. As a former production worker I can tell you for sure standards have dropped just in the sake of showing up. I say former because that machine will take your life one turn of the wheel by one hand feeding it. My fish and my pets and my business is my priority now and everyday I get to tell people, relax, why? Because there is so much information out there people can hardly form sentences to explain it. So when I say relax I get to too, because 99% of the time the person asking is just looking for confidence and not another fear to think about. So no worries about your setups, there would be stress marks and fractures occurring that would signal to you to not use or stop using if there was a problem, or else space is always limited and if you didn’t put a tank there my wife would advise you to put a book shelf of r
or sewing bench there and it would go unused. Big tanks are great,
Be happy you can do these things, I have had to multiple times remove tank just so it wasn’t a target of some junk. Meaning the fish too…
I’m sticking with my 15 tanks because at least my fish, my gecko, or my birds don’t complain and fuss.
This being said I have so much a pet store is likely in my future,
Ps I had to stop following the channels because it’s like hitting the reset button in my brain every two minutes and like mentioned prior I’m too busy to restart or redo things out of whim
Stay happy and healthy,😊 ❤
Thank you.
A very informative video and you brought some issues to my attention. I'm planning on buying a Custom Aquarium 250 and I'll definitely ask about the upgrades. And yes very expensive but it is my dream tank.
Thank you again
Thank you! You'll love the tank.
If I had the scratch I'd buy a custom tank like that in a heartbeat!
Thank you!
Great video! That's a dream tank for most people for sure. Sounds like the website you got the tank from should have better "Noticeable" upgrades when building the tank OR if you did this all over the phone, maybe the sales personnel need more training to mention upgrade options and the reason for the particular upgrade. I wouldn't buy a tank from any big box store for sure. As i did buy from a local fish store that's been around for 50 years and they really know their stuff and have great products and recommendations.
Thank you! I would feel better buying from my LFS as well instead of a big box store.
Just ordered a Cade Altumate 😅 arriving tomorrow 😬
Beautiful tanks btw!!
Awesome, and thank you!
I have tanks with 260 to 450 liters for more than 50 years now. They are from the German firm Juwel, market leader for aquariums in Europe. They are assembled on a semi industrial scale, half with robots. My oldest one from this firm is from 1968 with silicone. Thats more than 50 years old! Then the others 30 years old, 20 years old etc. Never a problem whatsoever with leakage or otherwise, and they are very complete and price competitive. I think silicone can last forever if applied in super clean and industrial conditions. Also you can get all the parts from the last 20 years or so. I changed only the light beams from t8 to t5 to Led. If available in the US you should take a look!
Juwel -- I'll take a look. Thank you!
Here’s a handy hack,tape off the glass on the aqueon aquarium,one strip on each side of the corner,paint the corner black,makes a huge difference,no more looking at the unsightly corners
Brilliant! I might be replacing that tank soon, but if I don't, I love this! And so easy to do. If I do it, I'll include it in a Fish Home Refresh video and credit you.
Most of my 135 are build in but some aren’t will try that tape in the morning great cheap idea thank
For a cube that keeps hundreds of gallons of water from flooding your house, I think it was a good buy, it obviously makes you happy. That warranty was a scam imo, too much of a hassle to make it valid. As always, tank looking beautiful, great work!
If certainly does add to my happiness -- thank you so much ❤️
So cool to see the carpintis and oscar growing slightly bigger with every video! I got 2 oscars in a 200g with some other south americans, one unfortunately passed because of stress from the others... The other is doing great, grew from 1.5-3 inches in 2.5 weeks 🤩
Isn't it incredible? I've never seen a fish grow so quickly.
I think it's worth it !!! I have a Planet Tank it is well made, cost a little more, I will do it again. In a year I'm going to purchase a tank, trying to decide to going with a custom aquarium or a plant tank.
I love my custom 90gal tank, it was a lot of money, but I feel safer with it over the pet store tanks thou I purchased the thicker glass ones with black seams the custom one is just a better-looking and stronger built tank. I'm looking again into another custom tank for a reef set up, it has been on my mind calling my name "Polly go for it, you need to kill off $$$ of fish again" thank you for showing us your sump set up and what to look for since I'm a bit scared to start this process. Oh, just another project yet again so my family can put me into a nut home sooner than later. Thanks for another great video I really enjoy them.
Great comment, Polly. Like I've said before, you need your own channel! You're getting a reef tank??? Wow, Polly. That's BIG TIME.
@@CichlidCharmer Nah, I'd rather make comments on your channel, you're the expert video taker. I now might start small on the saltwater tank thing, like one of those 40-60gal cubes. Still up in the air. Thanks for your channel keep the fun going.
For large tank absolutely you want a custom tank from a very reputable company. I own a custom Aquarium and I've had it now for going on 4 or 5 years I'm totally happy with it. I did how ever spring for the whole package Tank stand and sump for sure very expensive. I also have 9 other smaller tanks from a 125 down to a 5 1/2 gallon tanks all of those are just store bought tanks except my 125 I got off the market place so don't know where it came from. But you had great points on the tank and yes I have those same kind of valves on my overflow box and they are for sure tough to get tuned just right.
Everything looks great, the way they pay attention to the details do make them a higher grade, but that cricket alone would drive me crazy. I've looked into Custom Aquarium tanks and have come to the realization that I can't afford them, maybe one day I'll have a huge 240 or higher gallon, but not anytime soon.
Thank you. The cricket has gone home to be with the Lord, lol
Your brave I’d never have a glass tank that big I’ve never had a issue with scratches on acrylic microfiber cloths are your friend imo only positives with acrylic other than cost
Thank you
Sir you should get a Birchir they would look beutiful in that tank! espeacially a delhezi birchir!
It would be cool, but I have a tire track eel growing out for the tank. She's about eight inches long -- another few months and she'll be ready.
I feel like these amazing high end tanks cost really comes down to the transport. Thats the real value . Picked up many tanks off facebook marketplace with a buddy and his truck and it isnt fun or easy and obviously i pay them for their time.
Wow imma order one
Hey Dave, I too have contemplated getting custom aquarium. I am working on getting a 210 to 250 gallon tank for my Malawi Cichlids that are growing out in my 75 gallon tank. The prices make me pause but i think they are probably worth it.
They are so nice! I hope you do it.
If you buy aqueon from a good LFS, they have a lifetime warranty and the LFS handles the warranty-if you use an aqueon stand. Also the quality from aqueon is better from a good LFS vs a box store. A few years ago, I bought an aqueon 4ft 120 with a stand from a reputable LFS and it was $1200 delivered with a stand, black silicone and the seam work was flawless
That is really good to know. I had no idea there was a difference in where you bought your aqueon tank from.
@@CichlidCharmer I think it depends on the LFS, but I was told by a friend in the business that aqueon makes tanks specifically for box stores and that’s how they’re able to sell them so cheap
Thanks for sharing:)
I used to have a gecko
And would always have rouge 🦗 wondering around 😬🤬🤣
It's what I do lol
If I had spent that much on a tank, I would have gotten the same kind of stand from them. I wouldn’t be able to look at that stand the way it is. My OCD would kill me. But I’m sure, the price tag on the aquarium alone was a huge hit. Either way, your tank is awesome. And your tips were great for anyone wanting to go that route.
If you're thinking the stand is finished, I still have to do the finish work. It will have stained 1x6 trim and doors which will make it much more beautiful than their stands. But that's okay if you would prefer their stands. I wanted something different.
@@CichlidCharmer ah ok, that makes sense. Finished I’m sure would look amazing, I was just referring to its current state. Can’t wait to see how you finish it up.
@@dj.excess Thanks for responding back. I actually mentioned your comment in my next video, but I didn't indicate it was you. I had some fun with it, but I totally understand what you were thinking (my wife doesn't like the look of the stand as it is for sure!). I respect what you have to say, even if I throw a funny spin on it.
@@CichlidCharmer haha. Love it!!! Again, can’t wait to see the finish product.
"I'm no King of DIY" 🤣😂
I sure hope you don’t have to buy the tank again like I did. I have a 10’ custom aquarium and it last 18 months before the bottom silicone seam failed.it was on a non custom aquarium steel stand so the denied warranty for that reason.
I hope that as well. That's my nightmare, right there.
I have my custom aquariums 180 getting delivered in the next week or 2. so excited. also is going to have south Americans in it.
Nice! You're gonna love it.
@@CichlidCharmer cant wait lol. Its not cheap but i think it'll be worth it in the long run. Especially for a tank this size i didn't want to go cheap lol
What about mid high price like waterbox , ADA and UNS? Might not as expensive as a custom made for a smaller tank , but much nicer than a Aqueon tank .
Good options! And don't forget Landen. I have two Landen tanks.
We absolutely love our 240 nine foot long aquarium. Same situation as you - could've upgraded -wasn't told in advance. Merde! About $6,000 Cdn.
Seems like they'd want to make more money on upgrades, right?
@@CichlidCharmer Absah - cichlid - lee!
I recently had to down size my tanks only because my schedule for life had to change for better of my son. If i could get one last tank, it'd be something like this definitely
Dennis, you still have the tanks you recently told me about though?
@@CichlidCharmer I have one of the 75 gallons up for sale now, and rehomed a few to clear out a 75 for breeding a young pair of red terrors. I still have the cuban in a tank and yellow jacket in another. Trimac and jack dempsey in 125 and my gallon which I'll be selling that had my angels. I've culled down on the stock to make this move happen and it sucks. Maybe at the beginning of next year I can try and wiggle in a 6ft tank.
@@dennispeleg7843 That really DOES suck, Dennis. The only silver lining is that you get to start up some new tanks once you move. That's always very exciting.
Your cheap broken hose valve is a ball valve type, which is difficult to adjust flow.
you need a gate valve ….. BRS sells them.
Thank you. I have two I will be ordering. Just waiting for Custom Aquariums to send me the caps and new hoses.
Have you considered adding some rare plecos to San Quentin?
in my opinion it's like a cool Easter egg in your tank
I would love to, but as of yet there isn't any algae at all that I've seen. This spot didn't give Alcatraz any algae either.
@@CichlidCharmer You can always add botanicals and target feed them! My recommendation is just adding blanched zucchini and unsalted canned green beans!
What u talking about replacing tanks every 5 to 7 years? Most tanks go decades, I got one that's over 40 years
I'm scared of cheaper tanks. It's less than $100 to replace so not a problem
@CichlidCharmer I hear you, especially with one the size you have here for sure , wonderful tank it would be dream! I had all my tanks in my dining room till I moved them to the garage. Appreciate the video
I bought a 150 gallon from them. You get what you pay for quality aint cheap 🤣🐟
I have a 10x4x30” tank I got for $3,200. Tank, stand and a 8ft sump. It’s all acrylic. No way I’d buy a tank that size glass.
What lights are those currently on the tank…. I know ur bio lists multiple lights.
It's a couple of Fluval Sea Marines.
custom aquariums make incredible tanks however there warranty is a slap in the face
Lovely
Thank you
once i get past 75 gallons im going to marketplace & such and hoping i dont have to fix it .... the savings are worth the risk
your oscar is adorable
Isn't he? Thank you!
cricket has to go, unwelcome and noisy
Yes for sure
Nice tank, yea their sump design is not ideal.
About that cricket, cover you sump then do 1 shot of bug spray, will force it out then you can kill it. My tank stand is in the garage, it happens to me all the time.
Thanks for the great idea 💡
Just trying to understand, you spent so much on the tank but not get a stand from them? Was the stand as expensive as the tank?
Also I they don’t give a good warranty? It’s surprising
I wanted my stand to look like the others. I haven't had time to do the finish work yet. Their stands aren't cheap. It would have been several thousand extra and or wouldn't have matched the stand sitting right around the corner from it. The warranty only applies if you use their stands.
Oh man those are 3 meters 😧, wonderful aquarium
Just a touch over. Thank you!
@@CichlidCharmer you're welcome, I have two aquariums made of glass (not massive like yours) and i almost never use razors, I'd hate to scratch them 😂
Who is the aquarium maker I’m not into big box tanks
Custom Aquariums.
You could use a leaf blower get that cricket out
That's a great idea
Sir may I ask what do you do for work :D
I am a photographer and I work at Costco also.
This woulda been the perfect tank for a large reef setup!! If you can spend 5grand on a tank alone, then I dont see any reason why you wouldnt be able to afford a reef/marine setup. It really isnt that complex as what ppl make it seem to be
You know I'm just not that interested in salt water/reef tanks. They're gorgeous, but they don't do much for me. I totally get why they are so popular though.
@@CichlidCharmer fair enough
You don't need tempered glass in aquatics. You're not gonna bang everyday in an aquarium but over time, if there is any bending, then tempered glass will fail before the normal glass because of the brittleness.
Yep. That's why I am glad I chose this. Thanks!
I'd absolutely go with a better brand on a tank that big. The smaller tanks i am a Seapora snob and will not buy an aqueon as seapora center braces are the best outta the less expensive brand.
Thanks for the info!
Place dry dog food on duck tape sticky side up and you’ll catch the cricket
Thanks. Sounds like you've had a little experience with this
@@CichlidCharmer I have a dog and crickets find a way in every now and then. They love the back of the tank and it drives me crazy. The tape works great…
That’s like $16,000 AUD! 😢😢😢
A lot, I know!
I built a 240gallon 8foot long plywood for under a thousand, hell of alot cheaper and built like a tank😂
All that money. You’d think they’d put nice valves on the aquarium.
Likewise!
You are monetising UA-cam videos i hope and reap rewards to maintain the tank. Beyond 2 tanks, it simply not hobby anymore.
I am monetized, and I'm not really broke lol. It is an expensive hobby though. UA-cam helps pay for the electricity to run these tanks 🤘
I hope your wife understands that you could be a golfer in spin three times as much money but no return. Do I think this was an expensive investment, and wise? Not at all. Maybe you like old Chevy horsepower. There’s about 60 grand for a great 70 SS Chevelle. I think you’re doing just fine
Good point! Plus she'd have to admit to being married to a golfer, and I suppose I'd even have to watch golfing on TV lol
One thing I am always thinking is with the amount of money you are spending on fish and the huge size of your tanks is why you don’t have salt water fish. I have an electric blue acara and nyererei cichlid and they are both fully colored up and look really nice but still they are nothing compared to salt water fish of the Indopacific region. I have been scuba diving in the Similan islands and Indonesia and those experiences were mind blowing. If I had the money, time and tank size I would get salt water tanks for sure.
I get it. For some reason, saltwater just doesn't interest me. Even when I go the the LFS and see their 20 or so tanks of cool saltwater fish, I hardly ever even glance at them. Weird, I know. But I'm pretty weird.
take the carpintis out
Never. Well, unless he gets super aggressive.
@@CichlidCharmer okay
Bro u need therapy 😂. Get one soon.
Excellent advice