Custom Aquarium Installation in Union County: Installing A Freestanding Aquarium
In modern design, nothing speaks louder than a custom freestanding aquarium. Unlike wall-mounted or built-in aquariums, freestanding versions are viewable from all sides, making them a stunning and refreshing focal point for homes or businesses. Whether in a corporate lobby or the middle of an open-concept living room, freestanding aquariums turn any ordinary room into an epic mini ocean display.
Freestanding aquariums require structural work, accurate placement, integrated aquarium systems, and design coordination. At Reefco Aquariums, we have 20+ years of experience in designing and installing aquariums in homes, schools, and offices around Union County.
Building the Foundation
The first step in installing a free-standing aquarium begins by understanding the massive weight involved. When filled with water, substrate, and rockwork, a 500-gallon aquarium can weigh over 5,000 pounds, the equivalent of parking a compact car in the living room! A professional aquarium consultation with our team will guarantee that your floor and foundation can handle the weight of your dream aquarium.
We will take into consideration the following:
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Load factors: We will look at the best way to spread out the weight.
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Reinforcement factors: We may suggest installing steel supports or footings.
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Vibration suppression: We try to prevent over-vibration from aquarium pumps, piping systems, etc., that could disturb the building.
Freestanding aquariums must be fitted by a professional to reduce lasting structural failures and prevent the entire aquarium from bursting.
Placement For Freestanding Aquariums
A standalone aquarium should complement its environment, but it should also be easy to maintain. Freestanding aquariums are becoming increasingly popular in commercial spaces such as offices, hospitals, and restaurants. They not only look beautiful, but they also reduce stress and enhance employee well-being. Your aquarium should make a lasting impression in the desired location, while not blocking walkways or access to emergency exits, and allowing enough space for rearranging furniture if needed.
When deciding where to put your freestanding aquarium, you should consider:
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Lighting: Ensure the aquarium is out of direct sunlight, as this can encourage excessive algae growth and temperature fluctuations.
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Traffic flow: Make sure that people can admire and access the display without it being an obstruction.
Infrastructure: Power, Water, and Connectivity
Power
Unlike built-in wall aquariums, freestanding aquariums have no concealed walls to hide away power lines and electrical systems. Therefore, the systems need to be designed to be discreet and creatively integrated. Electrical GFCI-protected dedicated circuits are critical in freestanding aquariums to prevent electrical shock and fire hazards.
Plumbing
Aquariums in an open area will benefit from automatic water change (AWC) systems with a permanent water line (and drain line). AWC systems maintain water quality levels by performing small water changes, which reduce harmful waste and replenish vital minerals.
Network
A lot of the newer aquariums use smart systems that control and track parameters, control lighting, and automatically feed remotely.
Equipment Integration
Freestanding tanks require the same aquarium systems as any other aquarium, but we integrate them into the stand so they can be hidden yet easily accessible. Once the ideal size and shape of the aquarium have been decided, we can guide you through our selection of custom-built aquarium cabinetry. Ensuring that the cabinetry fits your space’s decor and surroundings, at Reefco Aquariums, we provide a high-end collection of furniture-grade, prebuilt cabinetry, as well as a team of custom cabinet-makers.
Installation
Setting up a freestanding aquarium doesn’t have to be a daunting process; it just requires following a few steps, which our team can help with.
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Planning: This covers construction materials, utilities, and accessibility.
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Infrastructure: We will put in and test filtration, electrical, and plumbing well before the tank is permanently up and running with livestock.
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Delivery and installation: Most large tanks need rigging and temporary deconstruction of structures. We will assess the area and install the aquarium carefully to match your vision.
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System boot: Before adding any fish and corals, your aquarium will be filled, and the cycling process will start. The cycling process usually takes around 2-6 weeks, depending on how large your aquarium is.
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Final checks: A professional will make sure that everything is running properly and that any questions you have are answered.
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Adding livestock: Not the exciting part! We have a wide range of SPS, LPS, and soft corals in store. If you also want to add fish, we can also recommend which fish will be compatible with your corals. If you are worried about coral maintenance, we can help you understand coral needs or suggest which saltwater fish are best for fish-only aquariums.
Seamless Design Integration
Often, the most dramatic freestanding aquariums work best when they fit with the original architecture. Achieving this means fitting the aquarium to the ceiling height and matching cabinetry, bases, and trim with the floor and finishes.
The type of lighting in your aquarium can make a massive difference. Many of our clients opt for LED lighting with mood colors to create spectacular day-to-night transitions.
Smart Systems and Automation
Freestanding aquariums are an investment that extends well beyond the initial tank purchase. Additional costs include:
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Structural preparation and reinforcement
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Utility integration (electrical, plumbing, drainage)
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Custom cabinetry and design elements
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Professional installation and system commissioning
While the upfront investment may seem a lot at first, the long-term benefits quickly justify the expense. Automated systems help prevent costly equipment failures and reduce the need for replacement parts, delivering a strong return on investment while extending the life of your equipment.
Long-Term Maintenance and Support
The success of a stand-alone aquarium does not end when it is installed. Ongoing professional maintenance ensures:
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Stable water quality
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Reliable equipment operation
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Healthy, vibrant aquatic life
Why Choose Reefco Aquariums?
Regardless of whether it is for a corporate lobby or inside a personal home, our team has years of experience creating freestanding aquariums that bring your visions to life.
If you would like to learn more about custom designs or are ready to dive into creating an epic aquarium display in your space, contact the Reefco Aquariums team today.
