Fish Tank Stand

Part of making plans for your new aquarium, is considering where to put it. Fish tank stands are not just an aesthetic way of presenting your tank. They’re actually a necessity if you don’t want to hear the crack of glass and running water in the middle of the night.

Aquariums themselves are not that heavy, but water is. The standard weight formula, is 8.4 lbs for every gallon of water. So if you are starting out with a 20-gallon tank, the water alone will weigh almost 170 lbs. as much as a full-grown man. And no man that size is going to sit themselves down on a flimsy chair, so why put your tank at risk?

Most people want their aquarium where they can get the maximum enjoyment, so they are often set up in a living room or den. That’s also where you find the family bookcase, which is not a suitable place to put your aquarium, especially on a higher shelf that lacks adequate support, directly underneath the weight-bearing center.

Depending on whether you want just functionality, or something to suit the décor, you can purchase a wide range of fish tank stands made specifically to bear the kind of weight load that is to be expected from a particular size aquarium. These will frequently be labeled to show just how many pounds it is safe to put on them.

Whether you choose plain metal, with perhaps shelves for your equipment and accessories, or a decorative wood cabinet, check the construction first, to make sure all joins, corners and bolted sections are secure. Place it on a level area of the floor or carpeting, and check the level of the top, afterwards. A surface that is not level, can create structural stress on an aquarium, and over time, allow leaks or cracks to develop.

Try not to put your fish tank stand too close to a heat source, or in the direct sun. Both of these will affect the tank temperature, and promote algae growth. Select the location carefully, so that you don’t spend hours setting up, what has to be torn down again after a few weeks.

Aquariums can be an addictive hobby! When you’re considering the surface area and weight bearing capability of a stand, you might give some thought to whether there is a bigger aquarium in your future. Buying a slightly larger stand than necessary now, saves you purchasing a second one, down the road.

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