Tank Lifespan

[tropicaltone]

Hi everyone,

I realise this is a random question, but I think potentially could be quite important. How long can a glass tank be safely used for? The manufacturers tend to only give 2-5yrs warrenty with them, however a vast amount of fish can live up to 15-20yrs. How long are the seals good for??

Anyone had a single tank that long??

Tropicaltone

 

[Fella]

Hi everyone,

I realise this is a random question, but I think potentially could be quite important. How long can a glass tank be safely used for? The manufacturers tend to only give 2-5yrs warrenty with them, however a vast amount of fish can live up to 15-20yrs. How long are the seals good for??

Anyone had a single tank that long??

Tropicaltone

I know of at least 1 person who has used the same tank for over 25 years at my local LFS.

 

[Fishkrazy1]

your tank should be fine I mean after all aquarium stores use the same tanks for decades, best bet is to just keep up with the maintanance and everything should be aokay

 

[Tokis-Phoenix]

You usually only have the worry about the safety of tanks when they are completely empty and dry for long periods of time as this can cause the silicone which holds the tank glass together to dry up and thin out, causing leaks in the tank.
As long as you put the tank on a suitable surface (should be strong and completely flat and not un-even) and look after it well (don't let things like things limescale to build up in the tank on its gear like the heater), it should last you for many years- i've heard of people of people having tanks for over 20-30 years with no problems at all .