Upgrading tank...need advice.

[ptomoson]

I've been thinking about upgrading to a bigger tank from my 135 gal and it just so happens a local guy wants to down grade from his 210 gal. My tank has been running for about 8 months now and is a mix of sps and softies. I would keep most of the water and all the sand so would I have to cycle again? Sandbed is only a few inches deep.

See any issues with doing the swap?

[ddinox64]

I'm planning an upgrade too. Infact the tank has been in my garage for two months waiting. Everyone says no cycling should happen, and if it does, very minor because it's only like a big water change.

[leafreef]

Maybe a small mini cycle. 6 months ago upgraded from a 65 to a 120. Took a few weeks but everythings ok.

[rssjsb]

If you want to avoid a cycle, you should probably rinse the sand before putting in the new tank. Even though it's not a dsb, it probably has stuff in it that could start a cycle if disturbed.

[ptomoson]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=15150631#post15150631 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by rssjsb
If you want to avoid a cycle, you should probably rinse the sand before putting in the new tank. Even though it's not a dsb, it probably has stuff in it that could start a cycle if disturbed.

Really? I would think rinsing would cause the cycle. Glad I asked.

[Jorober]

When I upgraded from my 135 to my 180 I didn't have any cycling. I even doubled the amount of live sand, and added 60lbs of new live rock. I wouldn't worry about it.

[Jorober]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=15150631#post15150631 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by rssjsb
If you want to avoid a cycle, you should probably rinse the sand before putting in the new tank. Even though it's not a dsb, it probably has stuff in it that could start a cycle if disturbed.

I didn't rinse my sand either.

[ddinox64]

I would think rinsing it would create a cycle too. I need to stop staring at mine and get it in.

Go for it ptomoson if it's a straight trade. Bet you're done before me.

[candeewolf]

Ya, it wouldnt cycle if you just took it as is....but as its likely that you will be disturbing the sand and rocks that may have been sitting there for years, lots of stuff thats been accumulating down there will become active, and you will end up cycling again. I've heard stories of people who disturbed major portions of their sandbed after several years of not touching it, and had massive dieoff. Play it safe if the tank is over 18 months old....otherwise I think it should be fine. You can always check the params after moving it and getting the water and sand settled in your house.

[Percula9]

If you do rinse the sand it has to be rinsed with salt water.