Yeah, it really wasn't a money savings thing as much as it was the step by step additions I plan. I didn't want to place 15 online orders, and am building the setup 4 tanks at a time. So I needed a way to buy 4 of everything, several times, when my monthly budget permitted it.
I'm also the type of guy that wants it when I need it, not when the UPS man shows up
The hardware store is about 2 miles from home, so when I realize I need something, I have it in my hands in 10 minutes. I had bought some garden hose gaskets that fit as well, and they are flat, but I will probably go with silicone anyhow...it won't leak if you put enough on!