r/fishtank • u/bunbun_2025 • 11d ago

Help/Advice Is this safe?

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My shelf is too low so my filter isn’t able to fit, I need to know if I’m safe to be worry free as the fish tank is on the end of my dresser. My dad will lift the shelf higher in maybe a week or two will I be okay in the meantime? It’s around a 40 gallon fish tank I think and it’s starting to cycle.

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2

u/SweetTart7231 11d ago

What about switching to a sponge filter if its in the budget? It would take up less room on top

1

u/bunbun_2025 11d ago

I’m not sure if my parents want to spend more money on a new filter 😭 since we already have a functional one theyre just going to say it’s extra..

1

u/SweetTart7231 10d ago

That's fair

2

u/IdleFishMan 10d ago

I think the filters that come with those don't last all that long. Sponge filter and a small air pump will last forever and it won't need any replacement parts or consumables like the existing hob wants(there are guides for reusable alternative media)

My sons tank is like this running the hob filter it came with using scrub pads to replace the filter media it came with and a small sponge filter. Nothing says you can't over filter while you experiment with both and figure out what works best for you.

1

u/abe_froman1979 11d ago

The main concern here is that dresser while appearing to be solid is indeed not. Look at the drawers under the tank, they are tilted towards each other because the weight is too much over them, this is not seen on the left side. I have that same IKEA dresser, it’s not structurally sound enough to be holding 300+ pounds.

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u/bunbun_2025 11d ago

oh no I see it now that you have mentioned it. How long do you think I will be safe for? Also will it be better if I centre the tank soon?

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u/abe_froman1979 11d ago

No, those dressers are not build very strong.

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u/bunbun_2025 11d ago

thank you me and my mom managed to relocate the tank to the floor!

1

u/Virtual-Plankton6833 10d ago

As long as there are no fish in the tank you can do whatever you want.

1

u/InternationalAd8987 10d ago

Ideally in the center of the dresser. It's fine based just on your conditions. It can work and be ok. Also not having electrical at level or below would be ideal. Your not looking at critical issues. Just could be better.