Rimless 90 gallon tank questions

[USMC 4 LIFE]

Hi all! I'm setting up a 90 gallon rimless aquarium and have a couple of questions that I'm sure you all will be able to answer.

1) Should I add a pad or foam underneath my tank? My sump came with one already installed under it.

2) What water source should I use? I have read contradictory posts stating tap water is fine and other that condem it.

3) How reliable are rimless aquariums? I got my 90 gallon and it looks awesome but, it looks sketchy without the traditional rims. It's 1/2 thick, new and I'm thinking of filling it up half way to check its integrity. Someone slap me if I'm being paranoid.

 

[kschweer]

Welcome! As far as a pad or foam under the tank I would contact the manufacturer. Some suggest it while others don't. I wouldn't start my tank with anything other than rodi water, I think starting with tap water you're starting behind the 8 ball. If constructed correctly rimless tanks are just as safe as standard tanks. The tank I'm running now has been passed around for years and is still in great shape.

 

[Shep]

There really is no debate about tap vs RODI. Here is the bottom line you can use tap and have a good tank but with you are spending $1000+ on a tank, why not spend the extra ~$200 and get a nice RODI unit. With tap water you have no real control over what goes into your tank but RODI you do. That is a sweet set up I cant wait to see it progress

 

[USMC 4 LIFE]

Ok I'll contact the manufacture.

Thanks! I'll take your advice and get a RODI filter for water.

 

[Salty1962]

Welcome to R2R! To answer your questions:

1. Yes
2. NO tap water. ONLY RODI water so you won't add anything to your tank. There are many companies that sale them online. I use the BRS 4 stage.

 

[dbl]

Welcome to R2R and that is a super nice tank you're starting out. Agree on calling manufacturer to confirm foam/no foam. Further agree with getting yourself a RO/DI unit. It will save you heartaches, headaches and money as your progress through this hobby. Here is a great system that includes a set of replacement filters and a TDS meter, and won't break the bank!

http://spectrapure.com/Aquarium-RO-...ement-Filter Kit-TDS Meters-Chlorine-Test-Kit

 

[melypr1985]

Welcome to R2R!
I wouldn't recommend tap water for anything in a reef tank. RODI only. Rimless tanks are sturdy and built with thicker glass to keep it's strength without the rim. You'll be fine :)

 

[R_C]

Welcome!

 

[FMF0331]

Absolutely get a ro/di unit, you won't regret it.

Good luck with this sick and twisted hobby..prepare for a roller coaster of a ride with good and bad times.

Semper Fi

 

[rvlcf]

I use the RODI above. Very happy with it. Definitely do not use tap water.

 

[USMC 4 LIFE]

Thank you all! Your advice will be taken and I will purchase an RO/DI unit. I'll post pics once I get this bad boy up and running

Semper Fi

 

[dbl]

By the way, and I was neglect in mentioning this the first time, thank you from the bottom of my heart for your service, be it past or present!!!

 

[USMC 4 LIFE]

Thank you! Yuuuuut!

 

[domination2580]

Welcome! Glad to have you!