120 Gallon Start Up Cost

Hello guys. I am currently in the process of looking into doing an upgrade on my current 46G BowFront aquarium to something larger. I am currently in negotiations with someone nearby that has a 120 gallon tank with dual overflows (48"x24"x24"). The deal currently looks like it would include the tank and a stand, megaflow sump (large model) with in-sump skimmer, return pump and plumbing, 50-75 lbs. of live rock, powerheads (a few Koralias I believe), and aquaticlife t5 4 bulb light fixture for around $600.

I am questioning whether or not this a good deal. I am also unsure of what else I may need or am not thinking of. I am hoping to not spend anymore than another $150-200 after the tank purchase.

My thoughts are that I would either need to buy a lot of RO/DI water to get it filled up or buy a an RO/DI unit. The latter would definitely be more cost effective in the long run and this is what I am leaning towards if I don't have a lot of other costs. The t5 bulbs are fairly new and would last me a little while before I need to change them.

What else am I missing on the start up costs and is this deal even worth while? I have yet to see the tank in person, however I did see pictures of the tank and sump (filled and running with no leaks).

Thanks guys. Any advice/suggestions would be great!

 

When buying a used tank, the seller should never have a problem letting you fill it up at their location. This keeps arguments out of the way later.


What brand and model of pumps and skimmer does it include?

 

Oh there is no problem there. In fact, he set it up and filled it just so I could see it when I come.

 

In the past few months, I've been hunting for some big tanks bigger than 150g. and finally got 180g and 200g. If I were you, get the FULL list and detail of what are included. Then you have to find out the review on them. I would be patient, trust me. You will have more deals out there.

 

I just picked up a 125 with stand, protein skimmer, 6 pumps, wave maker, dosing pump and 6 compact flourecent lights for $500. I think it was a heck of a deal. Im keeping the tank and stand and selling off most of the rest. I had to purchase sand, 100 lbs of rock some plumbing supplies and two power heads. Total cost for the additionals was about $400. If the tank and stand are in good condition, it looks as if you may have a good deal there but as with anything else, estimate your future cost and double it! Good luck!

 

Thanks guys. I am thinking it may be a pretty good deal also. I am going to check out the tank within the next couple of days.

Am I correct in thinking about what I'll need to get in addition to what comes with the tank? I have plenty of extra powerheads. I am planning on buying a RODI system to take care of the water. I am guessing I would need a bucket or two of salt. Can you think of anything else?

 

Sand and a good plan for how you want to do your sump/filtration. It can be a real PITA to change that after the tank is up and running and in MHO it is much easier to do it right the first time. I just got mine up and running last night after it had been sitting for 2 weeks while i planned and accumulated everything that i needed. Good luck and let us know what you decided to do!