- #1
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I have a 15g fish tank that's 11 years old. Should I be worrying about thr adheisive breaking down soon? Whats the average age of aquariums?
Longevity of Aquariums: How Long Can You Expect Your Fish Tank to Last?
- Thread starter Greg Bernhardt
- Start date
In summary, if your aquarium is over a decade old, it may be time to replace it. The adhesive may have degraded over time and could lead to a break in the tank.
- #2
CrystalStudios
I would definitely recommend not using an 11 year old aquarium. The condition it has been in, temperature-wise, could have certainly loosened the adhesive. I don't know of any set age they last, but I wouldn't really use it just to be safe.
- #3
eNtRopY
As a salesman of aquariums I would say yes, it is definitely time for you to buy a new aquarium. You see the there is a basic flaw in the design of standard aquariums. They don't go gradually. They just go! One day you're relaxing in your living room enjoying the serenity that your tropical fish bring you... and all of a sudden * BOOM * the adhesives give resulting in a blast of glass fragments and blinding light. I never forget the summer of '98, there was an aquarium explosion just fifty miles away from my house, but we still felt the shockwave. I think somebody made a documentary about it... or maybe that was the eruption of Mt Saint Helens. Anyway, buy a new aquarium before someone gets hurt!
eNtRopY
- #4
cmdr_sponge
depends if u kept fish in your aquarium. if it has just been sitting on floor for 11 years it should be fine. unless dust mites have eaten the adhesive.
- #5
The Grimmus
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you could try renforcing it with some crazy glue on bother sides...It's Caaa razy
- #6
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Could I do something like this? Also, do they really shatter? I thought they might just leak.
- #7
Andy
- 73
- 12
I thought they just leaked, i always understood it to be safe. but also a good idea to fill the tank up with water and leave it for several days without anything else in it to see if the tank leaks or not.
- #8
cmdr_sponge
we need more information about the aquarium. has it been in use for 11 years or not? has it had hot or cold water in it? how regularly has it been cleaned? has it ever been sat on by a white rhino?
- #9
The Grimmus
- 200
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No,no prably not but if it is going to fall apart your should try it anyway...then throw rocks at it becuase breaking glass is fun
- #10
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It's been in use all 11 years with cold freshwater. I just drained it and will start to clean it up. It shows no signs of leaks and really was never moved or touched when in use. It's 15 gallons.
- #11
Bystander
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Date of manufacture? Anything commercial from the last twenty or thirty years should last longer than you will --- if it's something assembled by a hobbyist in the first half of the twentieth century, take it to a landfill. Eleven years for any of the major mfgs. is just getting properly broken in --- enjoy.
- #12
Mattius_
- 8
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there is so much to aquariums that i never knew...
- #13
Ivan Seeking
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But then there is the ole risk-benefit ratio to be considered.
If you keep the old one, how much are you saving and how much are you risking?
- #14
Andy
- 73
- 12
he sint ricking anything because he already has the fishtank its just a question as to whether it still holds water or not.
- #15
Ivan Seeking
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To keep the old tank...
Risk: 15 gallons of H2O and some fish on the floor, table, desk, or maybe your dresser and clothes, or even into an electrical systems causing a fire...
Benefit: Value of one 15 gallon fish tank.
Of course, being new is no guarantee that something won't fail.
Last edited:
- #16
Andy
- 73
- 12
Anyone with anysense would put the tank somewhere where it couldn't cause any damage if it leaked whilst they test it to see if it still holds water. Then he can see if it does hold water if it doesn't then chuck it away if it does then keep it and save the money that you would have spent on a new tank, or spend that on beer!
1. How long do aquariums typically last?
The lifespan of an aquarium can vary greatly depending on factors such as size, material, maintenance, and fish population. On average, a well-maintained glass aquarium can last anywhere from 10-15 years.
2. What factors can impact the lifespan of an aquarium?
One of the biggest factors that can impact the lifespan of an aquarium is the material it is made of. Glass aquariums tend to last longer than acrylic ones. Other factors that can affect the lifespan include water quality, temperature, and the type and number of fish in the tank.
3. Can an aquarium last indefinitely with proper maintenance?
While proper maintenance can greatly extend the lifespan of an aquarium, it is unlikely that it will last indefinitely. Over time, glass can become scratched and weakened, and even with regular maintenance, the seals can eventually break down and cause leaks.
4. How can I prolong the lifespan of my aquarium?
To prolong the lifespan of your aquarium, it is important to regularly clean and maintain it. This includes performing water changes, testing water quality, and keeping the tank and equipment free of algae and debris. Using high-quality materials and properly supporting the tank can also help extend its lifespan.
5. Is there a way to tell when an aquarium is reaching the end of its lifespan?
There are a few signs that may indicate an aquarium is reaching the end of its lifespan. These include cracks or scratches in the glass, weak or aging seals, and leaks. It is important to regularly inspect your aquarium for any signs of wear and tear and to address any issues immediately to prevent further damage.
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