Why CADE Aluminum Aquarium Stands are the Best by Kenneth WingerterIf you’ve been keeping aquariums for a long time, you’ve almost certainly owned a pressboard stand at some point. And if you had that stand for very long, there’s a chance you saw it lose its trustworthiness over time. Particularly if these cheaply made stands are exposed to moisture for extended periods, they gradually warp, swell and crumble. This makes for a rather unsafe situation–both for you and for your aquarium animals. While pressboard is perfectly suited for use as inexpensive dorm room furniture, it has absolutely no place under a fish tank. Maybe a couple of entire generations of aquarium hobbyists relied on pressboard cabinetry. We also listened to cassette tapes and talked on phones attached the wall. Point is, we modern aquarists have significantly higher standards. And, generally, much greater investment in our systems. Therefore, the modern aquarium must be (1) sturdy as hell and (2) built to last. Oh, and a slick look never hurts, right? Built for now Sure, there are some true craftsmen and craftswomen who produce absolutely gorgeous solid-wood aquarium cabinetry. And we’ve seen more and more steel-frame stands in more recent years. But let’s face it–prolonged exposure to water can rapidly deteriorate even solid oak. And we all know what water does to iron (yeah, sorry, ten coats of paint will do almost nothing to stave the inevitable rusting). And wow is steel crazy heavy! So, what should a tank stand be made of? When it comes to durability and longevity, no aquarium cabinetry material compares to anodized aluminum. Like steel frame stands, the openness and accessibility of an aluminum stand allows for the modern aquarium’s typically large filter system and complex plumbing configuration. However, as aluminum is considerably lighter (for the same strength) as steel, aluminum stands lighten the floor load from an already weighty fish tank. Yeah, some hobbyists like the idea of hiding equipment within an old-fashioned wood stand. Using simple but classy glass panels to cover the front and/or sides, one can do the same with an aluminum stand. Further, if you change your mind and actually want to show off your filter and refugium, you can easily switch to an open style. Aluminum cannot rot like wood, and it is far more resistant to corrosion than iron. Anodized aluminum is even more bulletproof. With anodized aluminum supporting your tank, you can always rest assured that you’ll never have dismantle and move your aquarium due to a failing cabinet–or worse, shovel it off of your ruined floor. CADE aluminum stands: Simplicity, quality CADE Aquariums are now well-known and highly regarded for their uncompromised attention to both performance and aesthetic appeal. Their choice of aluminum frame for every model in their all-in-one aquarium series is certainly a reflection of that fastidiousness. Does it matter to them that they could manufacture their cabinetry more cheaply with wood? Steel? Maybe even some kind of plastic? Hell no. Aluminum is the best available material for aquarium stands, so that’s the only thing you’ll ever see under a CADE tank. One particularly beautiful thing about CADE aquarium stands is that they arrive ready-to-go, right out of the crate. The sump even arrives inside the stand, ready to plumb. To be clear, that means that they don’t require any assembly whatsoever! All you have to do is screw the pre-fitted plumbing together. Seriously. CADE aluminum cabinets feature front and side doors with hinges and magnetic latches that are hidden within the framework; not only does this look really nice, but it helps protect them from corrosion from spilled water. In standard models, the right side cabinet door provides easy access to the Controller Management. This area securely mounts electrical controllers to keep them away from saltwater. Most (larger) models include a Chiller/Accessories space on the right side of the cabinet; the roomy depth provides enough space for both a chiller and other stuff like dosing vessels. The shelf above stores items such as dosing pumps as well as providing space to manage power cables to the Power Distribution Unit. Industrial grade adjustable caster feet help to level out the tank on uneven floors (no more ugly wood blocks). Would you prefer to have foam padding on your stand to protect the tank? No worries if you get a CADE because it’ll already be pre-installed! Perhaps best of all, the stand’s beautiful color is anodized to the aluminum frame, providing a lasting finish that is highly resistant to saltwater. Conclusion Today’s reef aquarium is meant to run for a very, very long time. CADE Aquariums are meant to run for a very long time. These aluminum frame stands will last as long as your CADE tank, if not for the rest of your life! And that might be just fine, because with their highly functional and attractive design, you’ll likely never want another.
Sydney Monroe says June 14, 2021 at 4:38 pm I have had some wood stands in the past that worried me, glad to see these steel ones becoming more main stream. Reply
Ashley says June 15, 2021 at 12:55 am I want a CADE soooo bad. ? Beautiful tanks, beautiful stands. ? Reply
Jason Bohr says June 15, 2021 at 8:10 pm The stand was the reason I bought one. It’s like artwork Reply
Maggie Dahl says August 1, 2021 at 7:25 am This line of stands is so smart!! I’m shopping right now for a new stand and I’ll be looking here first! Reply
ekersd says June 19, 2021 at 7:30 am Someone need to offer custom stands like this to fit any size aquarium. Reply
SimplyReefing says June 24, 2021 at 7:40 pm If you love these Cade aquariums as much as I do follow me on YouTube at Simplyreefing my next build will be a Cade aquarium. Reply
Robert Joseph Mastronardi says June 25, 2021 at 9:56 am Thinking when I can finally get my big system, I will go for a CADE setup. Thanks for this great blog post covering their metal stands! Reply
jwhisenhunt81 says June 27, 2021 at 6:44 am Looks really nice, I went with a red-sea tank last time and it is pretty nice as well, but I think i’ll check Cade out next time! Reply
Cynthia Ehlers says July 2, 2021 at 7:09 am Wow if my husband had seen this, my wallet would def be empty. Reply
Robert says July 26, 2021 at 2:07 pm Very nice compact and discreet design. Looks very functional. Reply
Hunter Bourgeois says July 26, 2021 at 2:32 pm I mean an aluminum stand! People pay big money to get stands made and they get an awesome system as a bonus with your tanks! Reply
Arch Getty says July 26, 2021 at 3:11 pm Incredibly well built stand. Engineered to maintain a stable water level. Easy to service. Reply
Larry Rutherford says July 26, 2021 at 3:28 pm Looks heavy duty and the the adjustable legs should make leveling an empty tank a snap. Reply
Michelle Yingst says July 26, 2021 at 3:57 pm Currently running a 55g with 2 hobs. I am desperately needing to upgrade to an all-in-one ???… I love the look of Cade’s aquariums. I like the thought of less weight on the floor using the aluminum stand, and MOST definitely like the open concept to be able to get in underneath and do what I want, and also the idea of showing it off ☺️? Reply
Chris Elijah says July 26, 2021 at 6:22 pm Cade stand definitely needs to hold up my cade aquarium!! Reply
Lilly Moore says July 26, 2021 at 7:32 pm I love Cades aquarium having one is like a dream there so cool Reply
Lilly Moore says July 26, 2021 at 7:32 pm I love Cades aquarium having one is like a dream there so cool Reply
Jammie Smith says July 27, 2021 at 3:22 am This is very nice. Love that it keeps your electricals all organized and safe. I absolutely love that it’s made with anodized aluminum. I need this. Reply
Stephen killam says July 27, 2021 at 5:57 am I like the side door next to the sump. I’m glad you guys went that route instead of just to front doors. Also the aluminum is way better than an ugly wood stand! Reply
James Owens says July 27, 2021 at 6:47 am Great design… Love the way the power strips are integrated into the stand. Reply
Joshua DenBoer says July 27, 2021 at 9:07 am I love everything about Cade tanks. I will be getting one of their tanks for my next build! Reply
Richard Grier says July 27, 2021 at 9:21 pm Just some really nice systems. The stands are even beautiful. Reply
D Aliprandi says July 28, 2021 at 1:38 pm Love that the cabinet isn’t low like the other brands. It’s just under 3′ tall! Reply
Kevin Weisen says July 28, 2021 at 1:51 pm Best stands out there! Best Tanks out there! And the best package from the best people and company! Reply
Jordn Gerardot says July 28, 2021 at 2:10 pm Definitely a salad and slick look. If you’re looking for a quick purchase this would be for you however I’m more into customizing and making a perfect fit but unique look for my aquarium. DIY all the way Reply
diana Aliprandi says July 28, 2021 at 2:40 pm I’m always spilling water when doing maintenance. These aluminum cabinets keep them from corrosion. Reply
Carmelo Garcia says July 28, 2021 at 2:59 pm These stands are awesome glad to see CADE is one of the very few companies moving from the “standard” materials for stand. Reply
Grace Riley says July 28, 2021 at 4:12 pm Love the clean look of the stands and the extra accessibility! Reply
Kelly M Benavidez says July 28, 2021 at 10:53 pm Wow I bet those stands last a lifetime! Would love to trade in my weak stands for this ! Reply
justan jenkins says July 29, 2021 at 1:08 am would be nice to get one of these as part of the giveaway going on.. i only hope i can find enough room in my tiny apartment to store it.. (but i dont really need a dresser do i? 😉 ) Reply
Tim Palmer says July 29, 2021 at 11:19 pm The quality of the stands is what brought me to ordering my 2100. Reply
Julio Ventura says July 30, 2021 at 2:14 pm I never had a cade stand but love the look and would love to test out all of the claims. I’m sure it would satisfy Reply
Desiree says July 31, 2021 at 5:34 am I checked out a Cade at Reefapalooza. WOW! They are awesome. Reply
Ariel says July 31, 2021 at 1:26 pm Okay so I’m commenting for the Christmas in July here on this site and new here but I’m looking and CADE tank and these stands are amazing. Better than having a plain tank when you can have this up model tank with this stand. I hope I win this contest. I’d love to have my own! Reply
Rudy Garcia says August 1, 2021 at 12:45 pm Personally, I think my favorite thing about the stands is the built in power distribution unit. It’s a pain having to install one myself when I can, and obviously when there isn’t room on the stand for me to install one at all, I then have to rely on placing a mutil-outlet unit on the ground, and then wind up worried about either accidentally splashing water on it or water dripping down the cords into it. So this built in one is a godsend. Reply
Loki says August 1, 2021 at 9:14 pm I must admit, I’m skeptical about an aluminum tank stank, but the anti-corrosive properties of the metal might make it worthwhile. Reply
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