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Tank Racks
Hello Scott,
I built all of my racks using 2 x 4s with 2 x 4 center cross
pieces (digital clock figure 8) and a 3/8 plywood overlay. Don't
cut the depth too close if you plan upon putting 10 gallon tanks
in the long way. Since they are just about 2 ft long, and the
plywood is multiples of 2 ft ( 4ft x 8ft), there is a temptation
to make the depth too shallow. This results in your tanks
hanging over the edge and no room for airline tubing behind
(assuming that the rack is against a wall.) I also left a three
inch space between the bottom 2 x 4s and the floor. (Makes it
possible to get at that fish that has jumped your net and flipped
its way under the rack). Don't forget the old rule - MEASURE
TWICE - CUT ONCE!
If you plan upon using gang valves for air supply, leave enough
room an the sides. My racks are set up for mostly three 10s wide
and three levels. (I do have longer racks for my very large
tanks. Using 10D Common Nails, 2 x 4 racks will easily support a
48" wide shelf holding a 30 gallon long. My racks are not
painted.
Be sure to leave enough room for lights above the tanks and your
ability to easily access tanks from above. I would also caution
against lighting which is too bright. Many killies prefer subdued
lighting (yet sufficient for plant growth). Some of my tanks
have 2 tube 48" fluorescence above them. In a number of cases I
found the lighting (and cost of lighting) too much and was able
to remove one tube. For most brands, the fixture will work with
only one tube.
Also consider using PVC pipe above each rack (near ceiling) for
your air supply
((assuming that you use one pump (mine is a GAST, Model #2Z866 )
- available through Grainger. I can pump to at least 50 tanks
with it. It has run continuously for three years + with no
problem.)) This way, you can tap into the PVC where needed and
drop Tygon lines to your gang valves. Oh - and buy gang valves
that are open at both ends - preferably metal!
You may also want to dedicate one large tank near the ceiling as
your reservoir/ water aging tank so that you can syphon down to
all others. A sink and floor drain always comes in handy - not
to mention a hose of sufficient length with a metal "J" pipe at
the (tanks) end for filling/syphoning your tanks. My hose has
an extension long enough to syphon to the bottom of my deepest
tank.
Tanks,
Bob Schwiegerath
Socorro, NM
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