Tips for Buying a Saltwater Aquarium on eBay & Craiglist

Know the Aquarium:

• Always buy a name brand name aquarium like All Glass Aquarium (AGA), Aqueon, Oceanic and Perfecto. A poorly manufactured aquarium can lead to cracks and leaks.
• Determine how old the aquarium is and how long it has been in use. Most glass aquariums have a lifespan of 5-10 years before the silicone seams need to be replaced.
• Know where the aquarium was stored. An older aquarium is more likely to leak and crack if it was stored outside or in a garage.
• Before you buy, carefully look over the aquarium for any large scratches. Minor scratches will be filled in by water and will hardly be visible. Small scratches in acrylic tanks can also be buffed out by using a scratch removal kit.
• Find out if the aquarium was used for freshwater or saltwater. If you plan on keeping a marine aquarium, never buy an aquarium that was previously used as freshwater.
• Ask if there were any medications used in the aquarium. You can tell because most copper products like Rid-Ich will stain the silicone green. These medications are harmful to marine invertebrates like corals and starfish.
• Know how much the aquarium is worth. First determine the retail price of the aquarium. New aquariums on Craigslist should sell for 80-95% of their retail value. Used aquariums should sell for 50-65% of their retail value.
• If you are looking for an aquarium over 75 gallons, consider purchasing a Reef Ready (RR) or drilled aquarium and allow space in the stand for a sump or refugium. Do not buy a hang on the back overflow box!
• At some point in its operation, the siphon will break, flooding your floor.
• Clean the aquarium with warm water and vinegar before use.

Which Equipment is Useful:

• The following equipment is useful: aquarium, aquarium stand, protein skimmer, powerheads, pumps, heaters, ro/di unit, calcium reactor, kalkwasser reactor, refugiums, sumps and live rock.
• The following equipment is not useful: wet/dry filter with bioballs (note the container is useful, not the bio-media), UV sterilizer (the bulb will need to be replaced), aquarium substrate like live sand or crushed coral (waste in the substrate will pollute your new setup, always purchase new live sand) and flourescent lighting (most reef aquariums require more intense light).
• We recommend purchasing only the aquarium and aquarium stand. Most of the equipment sold on Craigslist is subpar and will need to replaced or upgraded.
• Always purchase new nets, buckets, filter pads, salt etc.

Transporting the Aquarium:

• Bring along blankets, towels or foam board to help prevent the aquarium from being scratched or damaged.
• Strap down the aquarium so it does not move or slide.
• Remove all objects from inside the aquarium. Store these in a separate container like a Rubbermaid.
• Always lift from the bottom of the aquarium. Lifting on the top or center brace can cause the aquarium to crack.
• Make sure you have enough help. Ask if the seller will help you load the aquarium into your vehicle.
• Make sure you have a large enough vehicle. Aquariums up to 75 gallons (48"x18"x20") will fit in the back seat of most cars.

Tips for Buying a Saltwater Aquarium on eBay & Craigslist brought to you by Discovery Aquatics - www.DiscoveryAquatics.com