sand and skimmer

[jdb1984]

im starting a 55 and not really sure what the best sand to use would be. my 30 has crushed coral but want sand for the look and bio factors. also i need a skimmer but im restricted cause im definetly on a budget. it can be in sump but prefer hang on cause the sump is only 10 gallon.

[Mr Cob]

CPR Bak Paks are very affordable...especially used....and they are proficient HOB's.

[cbianco]

im starting a 55 and not really sure what the best sand to use would be. my 30 has crushed coral but want sand for the look and bio factors. also i need a skimmer but im restricted cause im definetly on a budget. it can be in sump but prefer hang on cause the sump is only 10 gallon.

Give us an idea of your budget.

Christopher

[jdb1984]

around a hundred bucks on the skimmer. everything ive read says you cant have to much filter. also need an idea on what sand to get. is there good sand and bad sand

[Jordan N.]

I would go with as fine grade of a sand as you can --The finer it is the more surface area bacteria have to grow in. I would do anywhere from 1 to 6 inches of sand. I don't use a skimmer so i can't comment on that too much. I've never heard anything bad about Tunze.

Here's a very interesting article on skimmers
http://www.advancedaquarist.com/2010/1/aafeature/view?searchterm=skimmer

-Jordan N.

[jdb1984]

maybe a good used one if someone is selling.

[Salty]

I use a bakpak on my 55. Remove the biobale and stick your heater in the space. One comes up used about once a month for about 50 bucks. Check the for sale section. As for sand, you will mostly see carib-sea aragolive in 20# bags. I use it and have been happy so far. Stay away from sugar and play sand.

[jdb1984]

thanks for the article. im just a clean freak. i cant stand to look in my 30 and see hair algae or algae on the glass. thats why a sump was a must for this 55. ive been trying to do alot of diy on the project so i could have more $$$ for the stuff that goes in the tank

[jdb1984]

oksounds good. thanks for the advise. need all the help i can get

[justahobby]

I personally didn't like sugar fine sand. It is too just too fine if you want any current. Otherwise, you get sand storms or you are constantly sweeping it even again. Also, don't cheap out on sand. I bought $10 per 20 lbs sand and it ended up being pretty dirty w/ lots of silica.

[jdb1984]

what about the figi sand? i think its a little more expensive but i like the white look