Good tank/deal? Other aquarium buying questions.

[83turboranger]

Alright, I had discussed this in one of my other posts, but its gotten really long and I just thought it would be easier to read and all if I posted this separate.

I wanted a 20 gal. aquarium because of size, my parents don't want too much space taken up. I was told that a 29 gal isn't really any bigger space wise. How does that work? What are the dimensions of the two.

I'd like to go w/ a 29 gal. now. I found one at Wal*Mart. Here's what it is...

Aqua Culture Deluxe 29 Gallon

Features:
-size 29 gal. glass aquarium
-Aqua tech 20-40 Power Filter w/ EZ change filter cartridge
-water conditioner
-Premium tropical fish food
-Fish keeping guide +easy setup instructions

Plus these Deluxe items:
-Deluxe florecent full light hood (lamp included)
-Digitgal thermometer
-100 watt heater
-fish net

$94.66 before tax

Is that a good deal. Does anyone know that company and its reputation. Will that light work for live plants? Any comments and suggestions would be great. And a comparison of size w/ the 20 to the 29 gallon.

[aquariumfishguy]

I'm not sure on size dimensions and all, but I think 29's are just taller than the 20 long. But as far as how long a 29 is, it isn't much greater. Maybe someone here has those exact readings to tell you?

As for the deal, it sounds reasonable to me. I do not tend to like aquarium packages... In fact, I think one of my only packages I've ever bought was a 20-gallon high setup, and it was about the same price. I'd get it if you can!

[fishfreaks]

hey if your parents approve, go for the 29 gallon! youll be much happier with the bigger tank

[83turboranger]

Yeah, thats what I figure, fishfreaks.

And I know that the accesories that come w/ it may not be top of the line. But I assume it will be good enough and if I really want better in the future I could upgrade later.

[Lexus]

I have a 10G, 29G and 55G kit made by them and have never had any problems at all. I like the filter... I actually think it is better quality than a Whisper. You can always upgrade stuff but this is a great starter. With a 29 you are getting 9 more usable gallons of water! The lights last a long time and you can replace them for around 5-10 bucks. I'd go for it. If you were in WI I'd sell ya my 29G since I upgraded to a 55g!

[soccermouth]

I have that exact set up. I ended up upgrading to a double light and 30 watt lights and I upgraded the filter. The filter it comes with is pretty good for a bit but I had a better one from a prior tank so I use it. The only real problem with the filter it comes with is it doesn't have the bio sponge. It's a good deal for just starting out. If you ever want to try plants you'll need more light.

[Lexus]

the filters now come with a bio sponge, they upgraded it just recently

[BigLou]

if you have the money/space, you should get the 55 walmart has for 150. for an extra 50 bucks you get almost twice the tank

[maxpayne_lhp]

Some would think that small tank is ideal for beginners. But in fact, the laerger the tank size, the better!
Well, try to save up, you may delay your plan, huh? I'd suggest you to purchase the bigger!
G'luck! Post your decision after the brainstorming!

[mrmoby]

Another option for you would be to hold off a bit, and browse your local classifieds. The newspaper is good, and if you have a weekly classifieds book that comes out in your area thats even better. We have a weekly publication called Uncle Henry's here, and there are usually 7 or 8 pages of pet related merchandise, which always includes aquariums. I have bought most of my stuff through it, and I think I have gotten much better deals. A lot of people buy tanks, have dismal success with them, and just want them gone. If you need to upgrade, or even replace components, check out Dr Fosters and Smith online. They have some great prices.

[Lexus]

Ya... If I woulda had the money I would have started with a 55G first too. Fish are addicting and that way you can have more! Plus the water parameters are easier to maintain.

[83turboranger]

Alright...
I would like to have plants eventually. ****How much more would a better light for that be?

I've been checking the local classifieds, but personally I'd like to know for sure that the tank has been taken care of and with classifieds I think they would be outdated and you never know how well its been taken care of.

As for getting a bigger tank. ****This is big for me. ****I have a 2 gal. now. lol ****I'd love to have a 55 gal. but my parents aren't willing to give up the space that a 55 gal would take. ****And I know there are some hex. tall 55's but I'd prefer the 29 gal. ****

Thanks for all the advice so far!