JMHO: Things to consider before purchasing a tank

[mf2055]

My small shop costs in the neighborhood of $650 a month to maintain the tanks and animals. Food, water changes, electricity, equipment burnout, and AC. For larger tanks with larger lights you cannot forget the AC cost!!! Especially when you have your buddy watch it when you go on vacation and they turn the air off... 92* AHHHH!!!!! I guess you get a good tan diving in your tank though. Don't forget the cost of scuba equipment for some of those really crazy cats out there.

[down on river]

All most as bad as a drug habit. Good thing its legal.

[NanoNate05]

Good cautionary post...I see way too many posts regarding selling off everything due to financial or other reasons or accidents caused by whatever. I love this hobby as well and want to see it sustainable for many many years to come for everyone. It all starts with a good fundamental understanding of what you're getting yourself into (just like a puppy or any other pet that depends on you every day). For anyone contemplating getting into the hobby (or upgrading to a larger system) because they think it might be cool to have Nemo (or Jaws) in their living room, I would encourage reading up on the subject and/or listening to "seasoned" veterans like these folks in this post who know a thing or two about serious reef keeping and all the sacrifice (time/money/sleep) that is involved.

These posts aren't meant as a put down or demeaning in any way...they are meant to help persuade individuals who may or may not have completely thought things through and to help fill in the blanks for folks not considering all the variables (time, money, sleep, ect).

Anyway, I appreciate other folks with the same passion for this hobby! Thanks for sharing everyone.