old/used eclipse tanks?

[kuklachica]

I have the opportunity to buy a used 12 gallon eclipse tank... it is 3 years old - only used for 2 years and sitting for one. It comes with everything - gravel, decorations, heater, and even the Marineland stand for it, all for $50! Now, my question is, does anyone have an old Eclipse? How well do they age? if I purchased this, how many years could I reasonable expect from it? The guy says that it worked the last time he used it (a year ago). He is only getting rid of it because he doesn't have time for fish anymore with 2 year old twins!

What do you guys think?

... and of course, this all depends on hubby-approval :) I think it would be a good "just in case" tank to have around for that price.

[1fish2fish]

I would ask the seller if he could run the filtration system to make sure the motor runs correctly and check the light (if the bulb is out you can get another quite easily). Besides that I don't see any reason why it wouldn't work. Eclipse is a great system and Marineland service is outstanding.

[kelly528]

As long as the filter runs quiet I would go for it. I wouldn't even think about buying a brand new aquarium when you can get the same thing (after its cleaned lol) for a fraction of the price!

[kuklachica]

Thank you, Good advice guys. He plugged it in and the lights and filter did not work. I offered him $10 for everything (tank, hood, plants, gravel, heater, stand) and he accepted. I am willing to call marineland and see about replacement parts. If I can't figure out the problem, well, at least I have some more decor, heater, and a nice stand for $10! Any ideas on where to find replacement hoods?

[1fish2fish]

Call marineland.. they'll probably send you a new one for free and if not they have all the replacement parts available to order. Try taking the ... for lack of a better term "doohicky that spins around in the bottom of the filter".. out and see if its clogged.. its the part that sticks down in the tank that the intake tube attaches to. Its hard to open but there is a little "spinny thing" that needs to be cleaned periodically.

I need to break out the eclipse book and learn the actual names

[thegameksk]

I just purchased a eclipse 12g off craigstlist and the light doesnt work. I saw you said to call maineland for a free bulb possibly. What do I say when I call?