Tank dimensions

[frydaddy]

Debating between two tank builds, both will have an external overflow. One is 60”Lx24”Wx18T and the other is 48”Lx36”Wx18”T. I’m set on the 18” as I plan to do a shallow reef and want that height for easier maintenance. Opinions on advantages or disadvantages on each?

 

[tbrown]

I like wider tanks - easier to aqua scape. The 36" would offer a lot of depth front to back but it would be difficult to manage except in a peninsula style with an "island" scape in the middle I feel like. 24" is a lot of depth but definitely manageable. I've had 18" and 20" deep tanks. The extra 2" helped but 24" would have been better for sure.

Is it going against a wall or sticking out into the room with a 360 degree viewability?

 

[frydaddy]

It would be peninsula style with the external overflow on a shorter side. Depending where I place it, it would either have 2 sides visible or 3 sides visible.

 

[tbrown]

It would be peninsula style with the external overflow on a shorter side. Depending where I place it, it would either have 2 sides visible or 3 sides visible.

I'd go 36" then if it were me. I think @Slocke did similar dimensions on his new build.

 

[tbrown]

Just looked and he did 24" not 36". I'd do 36" if I had the option.

 

[Slocke]

I'd go 36" then if it were me. I think @Slocke did similar dimensions on his new build.

Mine is 48x24x24 but if you are doing peninsula you want width as you will be wanting space for corals on both sides rather then the one side when the tank is against the wall

 

[Mschmidt]

Is it an option to do 60x36?

I agree with what's said above, 36" if 3 sides are visible, 24 if 2. Also depends on stocking. I love seeing my tangs use all 5 feet and couldn't anymore put them in a shorter tank.

 

[frydaddy]

It’s going to replace a 36”x24”x24” in my home office. Was trying to keep it around 120ish gallons and under a specific cost. If I do 60” length then it would be in the corner going along a wall with 2 sides visible due to available space. If I go with the 48x36, I can fit it peninsula style with 3 viewing sides. I did get pricing on 60x30 and it’s the same cost as the 48x36.