Aquarium Stands
Choosing the right aquarium stand can be just as important as picking the right tank. First, it needs to be strong and sturdy but also look good at the same time. So don’t skimp on the stand. Remember, it will be on display just as much as the aquarium itself. Don’t use some old antique table you found in the attic. Any unnoticed water leaks can warp the wood and badly weaken the stand. It’s always best to use manufactured aquarium stands sturdy enough to handle your tank. This is especially true with larger aquariums.
Make certain your tank fits the stand. If the tank edges hang over the stand, it is too small. This overhang can eventually cause the aquarium itself to warp and potentially break. Manufactured aquarium stands are generally made from iron, steel or wood. They all work well so it’s really a matter of choice. Here are a few things to consider.
Wooden cabinet aquarium stands are a great choice. Even though they are wood and subject to water damage they have many advantages. First they just look great. They won’t easily tip over and most have shelves for storing items. Those with enclosed bottoms allow you to store all that aquarium equipment that otherwise just sits around looking messy. It’s nice to have a place for chemicals, test kits, nets and other paraphernalia.
Some people will want what is called a mixed-media stand. These are stands that combine an aquarium stand with shelves and bookcases. This allows you to store all your entertainment equipment; CD’s and books in the same place.
Iron stands are usually made of either angle iron or wrought iron. The angle iron aquarium stands are welded pieces of iron and have a very heavy and bulky look. The wrought iron stands are made from thinner iron and will look a little fancier. But there are some drawbacks form any stand made from iron. They can leave nasty marks on your floor or carpeting if the legs get wet and the moisture accumulates around the leg bottoms. A heavy iron stand on small legs won’t distribute the weight of the tank over the whole stand and can leave indentations especially in carpeting that will be almost impossible to get out.
Another option is the do-it-yourself stand. If you have the know-how and an interesting idea you could go get some good hardwood like oak and build a stand yourself. Don’t undertake a project like this unless you have the skill and the right tools to get the job done properly. You don’t want to end up with some cheap looking stand that detracts from that beautiful aquarium you have spent so much time and money on.
Now that you have that perfect aquarium stand, you need to think where to put it. Keep it away from drafts and direct sunlight to keep the water from overheating or chilling. Don’t put it in the basement or garage unless they are insulated or heated. Basically any place the temperature can vary a lot is a no-no.
Make sure the floor is strong enough to handle the weight. A 100 gallon tank will weigh around 1,000 lbs when fully loaded. Make sure there is easy access to power. Check the outlets you will use to make sure they are not connected to a wall switch. You don’t want the power turned on and off every time some enters or leaves the room.