Tips for Buying an Aquarium on Craigslist

The Aquarium:

• Buying a used aquarium and stand is the number one area in which you can save money.
• Always buy a name brand name aquarium like All Glass Aquarium (AGA), Aqueon, Oceanic or 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 needs 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.
• F ind 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, snails, crabs 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 50-60% 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.
• The prefered sizes for aquariums are 20H, 40B, 75RR, 120RR, 125RR and 180RR (RR - Reef Ready). These aquariums have added depth with an appropriate height. Tanks over 24" tall are difficult to work in.
• Clean the aquarium with warm water and vinegar before use.

Which Equipment is Useful:

• The following equipment is useful and should be considered in the final purchase price: protein skimmer, pumps, powerheads, ro/di unit, calcium reactor, kalkwasser reactor, refugium and sump.
• The following equipment is not useful and should do not be considered in the final purchase price: 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.

Live Rock:

• The retail rate for cured live rock is $8.99-10.99/lb and uncured liverock $5.99-8.99/lb. Craigslist live rock should sell between $2-4/lb.
• Avoid live rock from Florida as it is often filled with pests.
• Avoid live rock covered in aiptasia or flatworms as it will become your headache.

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.

General Craigslist Rules:

• Deal locally with people you can meet in person.
• Never wire funds through Western Union or Moneygram.
• Fake casher checks and money orders are common and banks will cash them and then hold you responsible.
• Unlike eBay, Craigslist is not involved in any transaction.
• Never give out financial information like bank account or social security numbers.
• Avoid deals involving shipping or escrow services.

When Meeting Someone for the First Time Remember to:

• Insist on a public meeting place, like a local fish store, to trade small aquariums and accessories.
• Tell a friend or family member where you are going.
• Take along your cell phone.
• Ask a friend to accompany you.