noob question

[zimby]

Hi

I've decided to add a stick on backing to my tank for the following reasons

i can change it easily.
The tank weights alot(300kgs) and is already in position for placing on the stand.

I was wondering how far away from the wall should i make the tank?
Once full theres no going back so i'd like to get it right.

Cheers

Zim

[woodycb]

Is there anything going to be hanging off the back of the tank, or any mechanicals going down to a sump. I would say about 4 to 6in. would be good in case you ever have to do any work behind the tank you would have some clearance there. Other than that it really is a personal preference.

[adtravels]

how thick is your arm??

[Norward]

I agree with the above. Many hang-on-back (HOB) filters, skimmers, and refugiums are about 4.5", so 6" would give you plenty of room. Of course, if you can, putting as much of that in a sump in the cabinet under the tank or somewhere nearby would look a lot nicer. I also did a stick on backing to my tank rather than painting it: I painted a piece of thin plexiglass and then used rubber cement to attach it to the tank.

[Sk8r]

SOmetimes you may want to set a ballast or other thing the stand has no room for behind the stand.
Sometimes you want to do a hang-on refugium [6"]
Sometimes you get a fish in the overflow [use gutter guard or needlepoint plastic canvas to prevent this.]
And you'd like to protect your painted walls from salt vapor that can slowly cause a problem. 6".

[chillman]

Go at least 6 inches. But if you can I'd go like 10. I find I'm always needing to mess with something behind my tank (powerheads, cords, access to sump and skimmer from rear of tank), and always wish I had more room. Also, depending on surface agitation you'll get some splash.

[zimby]

Thanks for all the responses. the sump/refugium/skimmer are all below the tank.

I'm gonna start a thread for my build soon.

Cheers Zim