Dreaded Tank Near a Window

[Cave Dweller]

Has anyone here actually run a tank near a window? I have heard that some of the biggest challenges are the temperature fluctuations and the risk of added algae growth.

If some precautions are taken into play can it still be done? I have a tank with the back panel painted and there is a window in my fiances house that virtually never has a the blind up/curtians open. Not making any changes in the nearest of future but am curious on my options as I would like to keep the tank in the living room but space is limited with current seating/tv arrangements.

 

[Smotz]

my 60g is next to the windows - not in front but next. I keep the blinds and the curtains down and seems to be ok. My tank is very mature and successful.

 

[Tranquil201]

I've had 2. My 90 gallon which is broken down now as I upgraded no issues near the window. I now have a 150 in front of a window. I just put vertical blinds to keep the direct sunlight off and keep that window closed 90% of the time. During nice days ill open it for a bit.

 

[brand]

Sure sometimes I open for natural light and then close. curtains.

No algae issues but maybe cause water is nitrate free.


During winter leave blinds open helps growth.

 

[Smotz]

Sure sometimes I open for natural light and then close. curtains.

No algae issues but maybe cause water is nitrate free.


During winter leave blinds open helps growth.

Why does it promote growth?

 

[STHILL]

I have natural light from the windows hitting 1 side and front of my tank every day and no issues...I think the coral like it especially the gonipora. ..

 

[fredro]

Mines near a window and between 1pm and 3pm gets a shot of beautiful natural light across the front of the tank. During that time I get some of the best polyp extension and overall "happy" looking corals. I believe that if your parameters are out of whack, that it can magnify a problem, like causing an algae bloom, but from my experience, when your tank is healthy and established, a source of natural light shouldn't be a problem.

 

[rbtwo4]

Mines near a window and between 1pm and 3pm gets a shot of beautiful natural light across the front of the tank. During that time I get some of the best polyp extension and overall "happy" looking corals. I believe that if your parameters are out of whack, that it can magnify a problem, like causing an algae bloom, but from my experience, when your tank is healthy and established, a source of natural light shouldn't be a problem.

I agree. My tank is not by the window but around 4-6 it gets a whole lot of sun from my huge windows that are about 8 feet wide. If ur water is fine algae should not be a problem.

 

[Cave Dweller]

Yeah I think as long as my parameters are in check and I'm not abusing the tank by providing too much direct light etc and that the temp doesn't have its drastic ups/downs that it should be ok. Just wanted some added input before I even attempted it. Thanks everyone for the advise.

 

[NYreefNoob]

10 years of having my tank 3 foot from window with no issue

 

[Awibrandy]

Cave Dweller, it also depends what Sun light is coming in through the particular window. Meaning morning Sun vs afternoon or late evening Sun. Morning = no issues, afternoon can be an issue with heat, evening not usually an issue.
I've had tanks by East & North facing windows with no issues. I've known people with tanks by, near, and in front of mid day Sun windows who have suffered greatly with algea issues, and over heating issues.