Upgrading tank. How to switch tanks in same location?

Anyone upgraded tank size and put in same location as previous?
How do you do that without killing fish?
One of my tanks is a 60g. I can get a 90g with stand for cheap. Reef ready tank.
My issue with 60 is filtration and stand configuration. I can't do a sump so need to add another canister.
Thinking before I start spending monu why don't I upgrade? With 90 I can add a sump and size gives me more options for fish.
But challenge is switching tanks. 90 vs 60 is all in depth. So how do you swig tanks out?

Attached is pic of new potential tank.

 

I've done that very same thing numerous times and have never lost any livestock. My method requires several average containers or buckets, or at least two large tubs.

Premix the extra water you will need to fill the new tank. Make sure temp and all parameters match the existing DT.

Start draining the tank, and move rocks and livestock into the container(s) with old water as the levels allow/require. Do not disturb the sand.

Swap tanks.

Add new water.

Add sand.* **

Start moving rocks and livestock, and add old water as levels allow/require.

* If you want your rocks on the glass, add the base first, then sand.

** If you're going to use new dry sand (recommended), it would expedite the transfer to pre-rinse and have it ready to go before starting. You can seed it with a couple of cups taken from the surface of your old sand. Personally, I just move my old sand into the new tank, but I vacuum frequently so there's no buildup of detritus.

I suggest that you feed lightly for the first few days to allow the bio-filter to regain its balance. You always lose some, as it colonizes on all submerged surfaces.

HTH.

 

I agree with what advice was given. I will be doing the same thing shortly. I plan on using multiple 30 gallon Rubbermaid tubs. Buckets work too...but you'll need many to do a decent sized tank. I'm also not transferring any of my existing rock or sand over. I've been curing new rock for 8 weeks in a separate tank.

 

Why not upgrade? At least that's what I tell my wife Follow the steps above and it is super easy. Make up a bunch of extra water because you will need more than you think. Do everything ahead of time that you can so that on switch day you are ready to go without interuptions (making water, rinsing sand, making sure the new tank is clean and plumbing works correctly, etc.).

Good luck. Lets see some pictures when your done.

 

I'll be doing something very similar/same soon. My 125 to my 180,

 

You may need several large tubs for that one, Todd.

Good luck, Bro. Waiting to see it.

 

Ya'll left out the most important thing. Stock up on plenty of beer!!! God Speed!!

 

I like my beer!
I'll be going from 60 to 90. I feel anything above a 90 is out of scope.
How do you guys afford those huge tanks? In struggling just to buy a new 90 gallon and stand. Sale on Sunday so can get for 450. But then need to get a sump and whatnot.
A 120 would be a $1,000 just for tank and stand. Crazy $$$
God bless you guys.

 

Alcoholic much? I think anything above a case is it of scope, but hey, I'm not judging.

 

Would it help or hurt to mix the DT water with the extra water here to make sure they have same parameters?