Setting up a 55-gallon fish tank is a thrilling endeavor for both novice and seasoned aquarists. However, one aspect that often gets overlooked is the weight of the tank, especially when filled with water, substrate, and decorations. Understanding the weight of your aquarium is critical for ensuring the safety of your floor, choosing the appropriate stand, and making necessary arrangements for transportation.
In this guide, we will provide you with a comprehensive breakdown of how much a 55-gallon fish tank weighs in various scenarios. This includes its empty weight, the weight when filled with water, and the added weight of substrates and decorations. Additionally, we’ll discuss the factors that influence the weight of a tank, the different materials used to build these tanks, and what to keep in mind when purchasing and setting up your aquarium.
What Is A 55 Gallon Fish Tank?
A 55-gallon fish tank is one of the most popular and widely used aquarium sizes. This tank size is particularly appealing to both beginner and intermediate aquarists due to its balance of space and manageability. It provides sufficient room for a wide variety of freshwater and saltwater species, allowing enthusiasts to keep a thriving aquatic environment. A 55-gallon tank typically holds 208 liters of water and has dimensions of approximately 48 inches (121.9 cm) in length, 13 inches (33 cm) in width, and 21 inches (53.3 cm) in height.
The 55-gallon size is also ideal for hobbyists who want to create beautiful aquascapes, featuring plants, rocks, and a variety of fish species. The dimensions allow for ample space, but it’s still compact enough to fit in most living rooms, making it an attractive choice for many people.
Given its popularity, this tank size is available in various materials, including glass and acrylic, each offering different advantages depending on your preferences, experience, and budget. In the following sections, we will dive deeper into these material options.
Types of 55 Gallon Fish Tanks
When considering a 55-gallon aquarium, one of the most important decisions you’ll need to make is whether to opt for a glass or acrylic tank. Both materials have their strengths and weaknesses, and your choice will affect the weight of the tank, its durability, cost, and maintenance requirements.
1. Glass Aquariums
Weight: Glass is denser than acrylic, making glass tanks heavier. An empty 55-gallon glass aquarium typically weighs 80 pounds (36.3 kg).
Durability: Glass is relatively strong and scratch-resistant, but it is vulnerable to cracking or shattering if it’s subjected to impact or pressure. When transporting or setting up the tank, extra care is necessary to avoid damage.
Optical Clarity: Glass tanks are known for their high optical clarity, providing clear views of your underwater world without distortion.
Cost: Glass aquariums are generally more affordable than acrylic tanks, making them a popular choice for budget-conscious hobbyists.
2. Acrylic Aquariums
Weight: Acrylic tanks are significantly lighter than glass, with a 55-gallon acrylic tank weighing around 60 pounds (27.2 kg) when empty.
Durability: Acrylic is highly impact-resistant, making it a better choice for environments where the tank may be bumped or knocked. However, it is prone to scratching, so careful maintenance is required to keep the surface clear and free of blemishes.
Optical Clarity: Acrylic offers superior clarity compared to glass, providing a crystal-clear view. Over time, however, acrylic may develop scratches, which can affect visibility.
Cost: Acrylic tanks are typically more expensive than glass tanks, but they are lighter and easier to move, which can be an advantage for those who relocate their aquarium setup frequently.
How Much Does A 55 Gallon Fish Tank Weigh?
When assessing the weight of a 55-gallon aquarium, it’s essential to consider the tank’s weight in different states—empty, filled with water, and filled with substrate and decorations. Here’s a breakdown of the weights:
Empty Weight
- Glass Tank: A standard 55-gallon glass tank weighs about 80 pounds (36.3 kg) when empty.
- Acrylic Tank: A 55-gallon acrylic tank weighs approximately 60 pounds (27.2 kg) when empty.
These weights reflect just the tank itself, excluding any water, substrate, or decorations. It’s important to account for these additional weights when setting up your aquarium to ensure you have proper floor support and a sturdy stand.
Filled Weight
The weight of a 55-gallon tank will increase significantly when filled with water, which is the heaviest component of an aquarium setup.
- Water: Water weighs about 8.34 pounds (3.78 kg) per gallon. Therefore, the weight of water in a 55-gallon tank will be approximately 458.7 pounds (208 kg).
Substrate and Decorations
Adding substrate (such as gravel, sand, or live rock) and decorations (like rocks, plants, and ornaments) will further increase the weight of your tank. The amount of substrate and decorations you add depends on your aquascaping preferences.
- Substrate: Gravel, sand, or other substrates typically add between 50 and 100 pounds (22.7 to 45.4 kg), depending on the type and depth.
- Decorations: Rocks and other ornamental pieces can add even more weight, depending on their size and material.
Total Weight (Full Tank)
When you factor in the water, substrate, and decorations, a fully filled 55-gallon tank can weigh between 525 and 580 pounds (238 to 263 kg), depending on the specific setup and materials used.
Comparison Table: 55 Gallon Fish Tank Weights by Brand
To help you choose the best 55-gallon tank for your needs, here’s a comparison table with details on the weight, cost, and material for several popular brands:
| Brand | Material | Empty Weight (lbs) | Filled Weight (lbs) | Empty Weight (kg) | Filled Weight (kg) | Price Range (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Aqueon | Glass | 80 lbs | 560 lbs | 36.3 kg | 254.5 kg | $150–$200 |
| Marineland | Glass | 75 lbs | 540 lbs | 34 kg | 244 kg | $175–$225 |
| LANDEN | Glass | 98.6 lbs | 583.7 lbs | 44.7 kg | 264 kg | $250–$300 |
| Tetra | Glass | 70 lbs | 525 lbs | 31.8 kg | 238 kg | $100–$150 |
| Aqueon (Acrylic) | Acrylic | 60 lbs | 540 lbs | 27.2 kg | 244 kg | $180–$230 |
| Fluval (Acrylic) | Acrylic | 55 lbs | 530 lbs | 24.9 kg | 240.4 kg | $220–$270 |
Basics of a 55 Gallon Fish Tank Weight
The weight of a 55-gallon fish tank is one of the most important factors to consider when planning its placement and setup. Whether you opt for a glass or acrylic tank, the combined weight of the tank, water, substrate, and decorations can easily exceed 500 pounds (227 kg) once the aquarium is fully set up.
When setting up a 55-gallon aquarium, ensure the stand or furniture you place the tank on can support this weight. Additionally, if you plan to place the tank on the upper floors of a house or apartment, it is important to check the load-bearing capacity of the floor to prevent any potential damage.
Factors Influencing a 55 Gallon Fish Tank Weight
Several factors can influence the weight of a 55-gallon fish tank, including:
- Material: Acrylic is lighter than glass, which significantly impacts the overall weight of the tank.
- Substrate: Different types of substrates vary in weight. For example, sand is denser than gravel, adding more weight to the setup.
- Decorations: The type and amount of decorations you add—whether natural stones, artificial plants, or rocks—will contribute to the total weight.
- Additional Equipment: Filters, heaters, and lighting systems all add extra weight to the aquarium setup. When fully equipped, a 55-gallon tank can become even heavier.
- Water Density: Water itself contributes significantly to the weight of the tank, with each gallon weighing 8.34 pounds (3.78 kg).
Why A 55 Gallon Fish Tank Weight Matters
The weight of your 55-gallon tank is crucial for several reasons:
- Floor Support: The weight of a full 55-gallon tank can exceed 500 pounds (227 kg). It’s essential to place the tank on a solid, reinforced surface to prevent any damage to the floor.
- Stand Selection: The weight will impact your choice of stand or cabinet. A sturdy, reinforced stand is necessary to avoid tipping or sagging under the load of a filled tank.
- Transporting the Tank: Moving a 55-gallon tank, especially when filled with water, can be challenging. Having proper equipment and assistance during setup and transportation is crucial to avoid accidents and damage.
How Much Does A 55 Gallon Fish Tank Cost?
The price of a 55-gallon aquarium varies based on the material, brand, and features included. Here’s a general cost breakdown:
- Glass Tanks: Typically priced between $100 to $200 for an empty tank.
- Acrylic Tanks: These tend to be more expensive, costing between $180 to $300 for an empty tank.
- Complete Kits: Many manufacturers offer complete aquarium kits that include the tank, filter, heater, and lights, usually ranging from $150 to $400.
Choosing the right tank will depend on your budget, preferences, and how much you’re willing to invest in additional features like filtration and lighting.
Standard Dimensions/Height of a 55 Gallon Fish Tank in Different Regions
Aquarium sizes are generally standardized, but there may be slight variations across different regions:
- United States: The most common dimensions for a 55-gallon tank are 48 inches (121.9 cm) L × 13 inches (33 cm) W × 21 inches (53.3 cm) H.
- Europe: Some tanks may be slightly taller or longer than the standard U.S. dimensions.
- Asia: Tanks in Asia often measure approximately 120 cm (47 inches) L × 30 cm (11.8 inches) W × 50 cm (19.7 inches) H.
Application and Uses of a 55 Gallon Fish Tank
A 55-gallon fish tank can be used for a wide range of purposes:
- Freshwater Tanks: The 55-gallon size is perfect for freshwater species like goldfish, tetras, bettas, and cichlids.
- Saltwater Tanks: This size can accommodate marine fish, corals, and invertebrates for a reef tank.
- Aquascaping: The tank offers a great canvas for aquascaping, providing ample space for creative layouts of plants, rocks, and decorations.
- Educational Use: Many schools and institutions use 55-gallon tanks for educational purposes, providing a stable environment for studying aquatic life.
How to Choose a 55 Gallon Fish Tank Based on Weight
When choosing a 55-gallon fish tank, consider not only the weight of the tank itself but also the weight of water, substrate, and decorations. Factors to consider include:
- Floor Support: Ensure the surface where you place the tank can handle the weight, especially if you plan to place it on an upper floor.
- Stand Selection: Choose a stand designed to hold a full tank without risk of tipping.
- Ease of Transport: Acrylic tanks are lighter and easier to move, which may be an important consideration if you plan on relocating your setup in the future.
Conclusion
Understanding the weight of a 55-gallon fish tank is essential for ensuring a safe and secure setup. By considering the material, water weight, substrate, and decorations, you can better plan for the right location and equipment to handle the load. Careful planning will help you avoid mishaps and allow you to create a beautiful and thriving aquarium environment for your fish. With the right precautions, your 55-gallon tank will provide years of enjoyment and fascination.
Fun Facts
- A 55-gallon tank is often referred to as a “standard” size in the aquarium world.
- A full 55-gallon tank weighs approximately 458.7 pounds (208 kg) due to the weight of the water alone.
- Acrylic tanks are 50% lighter than glass tanks, making them easier to move and handle.
- Acrylic tanks offer superior optical clarity, giving hobbyists an uninterrupted view of their aquatic ecosystem.