Glass Top

[AZBurns]

I am thinking about setting up a 25g GLA rimless tank. My roommate works with glass and we are looking at making a custom glass top for this with a small notch to let a heater cord out of the tank. The only other equipment on the tank would be a Vortech MP10 and two PAR38 LED bulbs so there shouldn't be much extra heat going into the tank.

 

Are there other reasons than heat tha I should be concerned about as far as having a lid or running the tank open topped?

 

Thanks,

AZ

[xgame2k]

any buildup on the glass will reduce the light intensity and you will need to clean the glass a lot.

[FishStrings]

Here is why I think you're better off without one.

1. The glass tops usually have a fold in the center and block light.

2. The fact the top is a big sheet of glass isn't that appealing.

3. Its easier just to clean the acrylic shield on a water resistant fixture.

4. Way better gas exchange between the water and the air.

 

I personally like the perfecto hoods and the lights that are meant to fit snugly against the top if you have to use one because the room gets too cold or there are water restrictions.

[jgoldwood]

AZ... I would say do not use the glass top. I purchased one for a 28G Nanocube and do not use it anymore after a week or so. The condensation that builds up definitely makes a difference in PAR. Also, as others mentioned, you will have clean it constantly.

[sefrayser]

I keep the glass top on my Solana. I figure it will keep any unwanted dust debris from entering my tank. I do need to clean the glass regularly.

[Biotoper]

I would recommend a single acrylic piece with rounded edges for the top. Will definitely look a lot nicer than a two-piece glass top, and way easier and safer to lift than a single piece of glass if that's what you were thinking. I much prefer a open tank, and have dreamed of a rimless open tank, but as my kids used to drop toys in the tank I understand the uses of a top

[GokesReef]

Most lights, even those with plastic protecting the bulbs, advise not to place them over an open tank.

 

...just sayin.