When buying a used Salt water tank, what are the questions I should ask?

I plan to ask what the dimensions are (its a 55gal, seems like a good size for a first tank), from the picture, it looks tall (I have read that the shallower a tank the better), but it may be ok depending on the lighting. It has a sump underneath and a lighting system of some sort, but doesnt say what type. I really want to have coral and inverts with maybe a fish or two. Call me crazy, but growing the plants and watching cleanup crews are amazing to me. What are questions you pros would ask?

 

How old is it? How long was it used for? Any leaks? Was any copper used in it? (medication and the like) Why your selling it?

 

Any scratches? Need to find out what type of lights and how old the bulbs are.

Jack

 

thanks, ill probably post the persons reply to get your thoughts.

 

That is a must to know. You can always run reactors with Seachem. CupriSorb in them as this is what I done on my used tank. Ran it for about a year after I started it and have had no problems with metals in water.

A 55g tank I would have them fill it full of water when you are there to purchase it.

 

The photos show it full of water currently, but I can see that its a good idea to make sure they dont drain it before I show to assure the seals are good.

I would love to be able to buy a newer tank and not adopt others potential errors, but I am a graphic designer/artist by trade and thus must run with what I could potentially afford. I have always looked at marine reefing as a "rich mans" hobby, but am just trying to find ways to make it feasible for me.

 

From what I understand, I could be wrong, is that Cu does not leach into silicone. Unless you are also getting rock from them as well, you don't really have to worry about the Cu. However, I personally would never buy a tank that has had Cu in it because I would rather be safe than sorry.

 

it does have liverock that comes with it and what looks to be livesand (they dont mention what sort of ground covering is included in the post)

 

It will quickly make you a "poor man", don't worry. :-D

Have you spoken to the owner over the phone at least? It's easy for someone to lie via e-mail and tell you what you want to hear, just so they can make a quick sale.

You can ask all the perfect questions, but unless you are there in person to trust your instincts as to the person's honesty, it won't matter. I'd do some preliminary questions via e-mail, just to gauge your interest level... he may tell you something that totally turns you off. However, I'd go see it in person, and talk to the owner, before making a final decision.

 

I called and left a message, but never heard anything back. Maybe someone in my area who is on here will eventually put some things up for sale. Ill be starting from scratch, so will need just about everything. As I dont want to waste all of your time with silly questions that could be done with a bit of reading, are there a couple of books that are a good read for a complete novice? Maybe I could find someone in the area that could teach me the ins and outs. All the LFS seem to have horrible reviews online, which worries me.