Tank Cushioning?

[Floyds mum]

A lot of tanks on the box or instructions they say to use something like polystyrene to cushion the tank.
One main question is this neccessary?

 

[aly_starh]

Usually yes, IME, a tank over 25l will need a sturdy base so the tank wont crack.

 

[Floyds mum]

Usually yes, IME, a tank over 25l will need a sturdy base so the tank wont crack.

The stand is sturdy, but polystyrene worth using? Im thinking something like the fish box/pod 48L

 

[aly_starh]

For a tank that size, you will need polysterene, better to be safe than sorry. The glass might decide to twist and crack without it.

 

[Floyds mum]

Lol ok thanx
Ive got a solid wood table atm with some polystyrene so ill keep it for the tank i might have to get.
Problem with dead light bulb and might not be able to get another to replace it

 

[OldMan47]

If you have a tank that is designed to be used that way, use the polystyrene just as they suggest. My tanks are not that type and I don't use anything under them, but things vary and the manufacturer knows what design they have built.

 

[doresy]

The answer is simple but important to get right.

If you have a 'suspended floor/base' type tank (ie there is a gap under the floor/base)then nothing should be placed under it but if the base/floor of the tank is just a flat piece of glass then something like a polystyrene sheet should be placed between the tank and the base.

 

[Floyds mum]

So basically do what the instructions say? Thanx

 

[waterdrop]

So basically do what the instructions say? Thanx

Except that you've never clarified whether you have a floating base or a bare sheet of glass base and some beginners get it confused despite us saying. Which is it and are you sure?

~~waterdrop~~

 

[mini_matt]

I have thick cardboard folded to double thickness under my small tank I presume this to be okay has been like this for months with no problems

 

[Floyds mum]

So basically do what the instructions say? Thanx

Except that you've never clarified whether you have a floating base or a bare sheet of glass base and some beginners get it confused despite us saying. Which is it and are you sure?

~~waterdrop~~

I was just wondering cos i might need to buy a new tank.

 

[Ryandsimmons]

My Fluval 125 has a glass base but says in the instructions "Warrantee is voided if you put this on polystyrene or anything else instead of placing it straight on the supplied cabinet." Or words to the effect.

It is a purpose built cabinet but looks no different to any flat table.

 

[arobinson1984]

If a tank has a suspended base then absolutely nothing should be used underneath it, the tanks designed that way to be able to withstand the weight and pressures. Putting anything such as polystyrene under suspended bases can cause them to become uneven and the pressures become unbalanced which can easily lead to the bottom pane of glass cracking.

If it is a flat glass bottomed tank it is usually ok to put a thin layer of polystyrene or cardboard underneath it UNLESS it states otherwise in the instructions or warranty section.

Andy

 

[Floyds mum]

Ok thanx people