New to Hobby

[syncere]

I'm new to saltwater reefing and San Antonio and just starting to get an idea of the equipment I am going to need. I have been reading many articles and asking questions left and right. So sorry if I sound a little new:). But anyways so far I have a 20L acrylic tank.

As for my next additions I look to add are (most likely in this order):
20L Stand
Jager 100 W Heater
Vortech MP10
Current Sundial T5HO
LS,LR
Also plan on buying my own RODI unit along the road.

Any comments on the equipment I have chosen would be greatly appreciated. There are also many other things I am looking into but not fully understanding such as sumps and such. Thanks :D

[hobogato]

welcome to maast, looks like a good start. there are many ways to set up a tank, but all of the successful ones have one thing in common - patience :) looks like you are definitely headed in the right direction with your research and planning. be sure to ask about anything that you need a little extra understanding with as we have lots of knowledgeable people here who would love to help.

[greatwhite@AlamoAquatics]

welcome , and yes patience is key... ask all the questions you like ..

[justahobby]

Welcome syncere. I wish I had researched BEFORE diving in lol. Looks like you will getting a nice start w/ some prime equipment.


Don't be afraid to ask on here for a small LR, scoop of est. sand, or old filters - whatever to help your tank cycle along.

[ErikH]

I have a hundred gallon fuge you can look at :D

Welcome to the addiction. Say bye bye to your wallet! Best hobby ever!

[aquasport24]

It's not too late to turn back now ,while you can:hypnotyized:..WELCOME TO MAAST..

[Big_Pun]

well you are off to a great start, all good equipment your getting I wish I would of been as smart as you lol. what do you plan to keep softies,sps,lps or all of the above. only thing I think of is what is your plan for filtration, fuge?

[syncere]

haha:lauging:. Thanks for the welcoming. I know it is a pretty expensive hobby to get into but I'm sure more well worth it if I start out on the right foot.

[syncere]

well you are off to a great start, all good equipment your getting I wish I would of been as smart as you lol. what do you plan to keep softies,sps,lps or all of the above. only thing I think of is what is your plan for filtration, fuge?

I was viewing a couple of AIO with the 20L I have and was considering losing a little bit of space in my tank. Not sure if its a good idea or if a sump would be better. I do plan on keeping some lps, sps and a pair of percs. (not sure which kind yet)

[Salty]

Hang out at the local fish stores. Just being around it hearing the stories is worth tons more than any Internet article. Plus, it gives you a chance to hang out with some very interesting people which is really the best part of what we do. As to the equipment, I'd go bigger. If you get into this thing, you will outgrow 20 in no time flat.

[syncere]

Hang out at the local fish stores. Just being around it hearing the stories is worth tons more than any Internet article. Plus, it gives you a chance to hang out with some very interesting people which is really the best part of what we do. As to the equipment, I'd go bigger. If you get into this thing, you will outgrow 20 in no time flat.

No kidding. Since I first decided to start up a saltwater tank I've returned 3 tanks to upgrade already. But I think I'm at a good budget right now so that I can start saving for future projects.:bigsmile:

[Mike]

Welcome to MAAST. Don't be afraid to ask questions and take advantage of any opportunity to talk to other reefers and see their tanks. There are a great bunch of people on here. Let us know if you need anything.

[ErikH]

get a better light then for SPS! :D The sundial is ok, but you should go with the icecap retrofits on reefgeek. If not go MH, like a 150 clamp on.

[syncere]

Yeah I was just looking into to MH's right now. Saw them on a 20L tank like I have and the setup looked a lot nicer.

[Big_Pun]

I was viewing a couple of AIO with the 20L I have and was considering losing a little bit of space in my tank. Not sure if its a good idea or if a sump would be better. I do plan on keeping some lps, sps and a pair of percs. (not sure which kind yet)

do a sump with a fuge, with live sand and macro, or you can just do macro, i run a bare bottom with just macro. i think having as much natural filters (live rock, sand, macro) are best, and yes a skimmer helps alot, make sure you plan ahead and buy the good stuff where you can and it wont be so bad. go with the best light you can, that way you dont waste money and buy and then upgrade in a couple months. always take it slow in this hobby

[syncere]

Yeah those are not really expenses I want to regret later. I've been doing a lot of comparisons to just see what would fit my mood and not just be what's considered the standard way. But definably looking to put a sump. Would a 10G be too small? And anyone know where to get a good stand for a 20L in SA or any websites?

[Pennies2Cents]

Syncere,

Welcome to MAAST. :)

It seems as you have done your homework. :) Patience is the key to a successful setup.

I look forward to your build thread and if you need anything, please feel free to ask.. We are here to help you out! :)

[txav8r]

Good luck with your venture.

There are tons of resources here on MAAST. Don't be afraid to ask for anything.

[syncere]

Thanks a lot for the great welcoming. I look forward to hearing all your feedback as I get this thing up and started. Just waiting for the paychecks to come in so I can start buying this stuff.:bigsmile:

[syncere]

Payday! http://www.nano-reef.com/forums/style_emoticons/default/omgomgomg.gif
Not sure what to purchase first. I have enough leftover this paycheck to either get my lighting (which I still am unsure of whether to get the Sundial or some MHs if I can find something I can afford) or my Vortech. Any suggestions which I should go with first? Probably start building a stand too this weekend since they all seem to be pretty steep on the prices online and in store.

[syncere]

Ok so I have decided to get this tank up and running pretty soon. Just about to put in an order for things I need to start the cycling stage. So far I've got: AC70 (which I hope I will be competent enough to mod by reading through a couple great threads), 2x100 Watt heaters (1 for the tank and one for mixing for WC's), 55 gallon bucket of Red Sea Pro Coral Salt (still not sure if I want to use this salt or buy RC from the LFS) and still looking into what kind of powerhead or pump I need to mix my saltwater, also got a test kit.

I know I am probably missing small things but I plan on putting this order in today so any IMO or suggestions would be greatly appreciated. And by the time this stuff gets here I get paid again and should be able to grab some LR and LS so I can start my cycle.

[Mr Cob]

Welcome to MAAST!

Do yourself a favor and start with an RO/DI unit under your belt....I still haven't and I'm so tired of lugging 25 gallons around every week. But every time I have the cash to buy one I'm drawn into a new coral or something shiny.:bigsmile:

Can't wait to see some pics.

[BuckeyeHydro]

A 75 gpd RODI would fit that system well. We can help you configure the sytem when you're ready (e.g., reservoir, floats, etc).

Russ

[syncere]

I really am going to look into getting a RODI system just because I don't think I trust my driving with water in my back seat. Just working on getting the bigger pieces of equipment so I can start my cycle.

Just a little bit of an updated list. (not much but getting there)

What I have:
20L AGA
Stand
AC70 (plan on modding into a fuge)
GFCI Unit
2 Buckets for mixing and siphoning saltwater mix

Planning on buying:
(3) Jager 100 W heaters
(2) Thermometers
Powerhead for mixing saltwater mix
Salt Mix
Test Kit
Refractometer
Vortech MP10
IceCap 250/400 DE HQI MH
LS
LR
RODI unit

Anything else I should add?

[txav8r]

Looks like you have a pretty good list going there.

Don't cut corners by opting for the cheaper stuff like test kits. It will turn around and bite you later on.

[syncere]

Thanks.
Just been doing a lot of reading (not too much saving though:innocent2:) the last couple months. I hate to see bad things happen to other's tanks but it helps me by taking down notes and hoping not to cross that path. It is true that only bad things happen fast whenever I read these threads. I am however really anxious to get this tank up and running but really want to be satisfied at the same time it finally gets to where I want it.

[Mr Cob]

Invest in a couple of boys too. I did, and it has cut my maintenance down significantly. I even have a third on the way...by the time I get my 300g he should be ready to start working.

From my experience, I recommend one boy per every 100 gallons.

[ErikH]

Invest in a couple of boys too. I did, and it has cut my maintenance down significantly. I even have a third on the way...by the time I get my 300g he should be ready to start working.

From my experience, I recommend one boy per every 100 gallons.


LOL That's too funny.

[txav8r]

HAHAhahaha! Rob!! Thats classic!!

[Mr Cob]

lol, I was being serious. Ask my wife.

[txav8r]

That's why it's so funny!! I believe you!!!

[syncere]

If anything I would like to learn a lot from you all who have these huge gorgeous tanks. If you all ever need help let me know. The experience will go a long way for me before I dive into my own project.

[syncere]

I'm starting to lose my mind and want to change a couple of things.

I would like to know if the IceCap 250/400 would be too much light even if I raised it high enough that it wouldn't scorch the coral I plan on putting in there. Because if I have to raise it too high whatever lies on the sand won't be getting enough light. Or I have been looking at the Tek-Light T5 fixture which seems a little more practical and wouldn't be too much heat.

Also instead of modding my AC70 I would like to look into a 10 gallon sump (that's about as big a tank that would fit under my stand) instead. Only thing is I really have no idea how to build my own and any threads anyone could point me too would be great. Or if there are any lfs/other reefkeepers that could help me build one so I have a better understanding as to how they actually work would be great. I would be glad to compensate for any help. Thanks

[StevenSeas]

I would go W/ the T5 lights personally you can get more color combos make it how you like cheaply and unless you are keeping a lot of sps the 250/400 watt halide is a bit much imo. As far as sumps i wish i could help you build one, if your still thinkin bout it in May look my way, but i know there is a good artical on wet web media that talks about how to build one- i like their pressure baffling approach

[Big_Pun]

whenever you want you can swing by and check out my tank and talk some reef, you just cant see my pico its embarassing(red slime) lol

[brewercm]

Just an opinion and take it for what it's worth. I know on a tank that size the MP10 is plenty of flow. BUT, if you can afford (or wait) to get the MP40 you can always turn down the volume of it but can use it later when you decide to upgrade size. You may not decide to either but just a thought. The other thing you could do is get the MP20 which is what I have on my 58 (36x18x20ish) which can be upgraded to a 40 for not too much.

Looks like a good list and you are doing your homework and taking it slow. Welcome to MAAST and the addiction, you'll soon have saltwater in your blood.

[syncere]

I would go W/ the T5 lights personally you can get more color combos make it how you like cheaply and unless you are keeping a lot of sps the 250/400 watt halide is a bit much imo. As far as sumps i wish i could help you build one, if your still thinkin bout it in May look my way, but i know there is a good artical on wet web media that talks about how to build one- i like their pressure baffling approach

Yeah I'm starting to lean more towards the Tek lighting system for this tank more and more. I was just realizing how high I would actually have to raise the IceCaps above the water. I'll keep searching and try to understand all the components of the sump before I get to involved with it.


whenever you want you can swing by and check out my tank and talk some reef, you just cant see my pico its embarassing(red slime) lol

That would be awesome. I would like to see a live reef tank in action. I've seen ones at the LFS's but I am curious as to how everyone else keeps their own. Everyone has their own unique style and way of taking care of things.


Just an opinion and take it for what it's worth. I know on a tank that size the MP10 is plenty of flow. BUT, if you can afford (or wait) to get the MP40 you can always turn down the volume of it but can use it later when you decide to upgrade size. You may not decide to either but just a thought. The other thing you could do is get the MP20 which is what I have on my 58 (36x18x20ish) which can be upgraded to a 40 for not too much.

Looks like a good list and you are doing your homework and taking it slow. Welcome to MAAST and the addiction, you'll soon have saltwater in your blood.

I was actually thinking about grabbing a MP20 just for that reason but depends really on how long it takes me to gather everything else and if I can save up a little more to get a higher end Vortech to play with.

Thanks for all the responses though. Glad to see that most of my reading if getting me somewhere and really looking forward to doing the best job I can in creating an environment for all my sea life.

[syncere]

Ok I am starting to lean more towards the IceCap 250 HQI Pendant mainly because I do plan on keeping a lot of SPS in the future. I figure it would be easier to start out with this fixture so that way I am not tempted to want to upgrade right away. So IceCap or Tek T5?

Looking at putting a 14k phoenix in the IceCap and not too sure what bulb setup I want on the Tek.

[StevenSeas]

Just do an LED fixture then w/ dimmable drivers and u can do w/e and keep w/e if u do it right lol

[brewercm]

It's too bad you are going 20l. I was looking around and found this on clearance at premiumaquatics and it includes the bulbs. You could always use your 20L as a sump and go with a 36" tank. Someone here had a nice 60 high for sale with stand. See now I'm just being an enabler.:bigsmile:

I was tempted to buy it since it's the last one and sell my lights off, just don't want to go back to those elect bills.

http://premiumaquatics.com/store/merchant.mvc?Screen=PROD&Store_Code=PA&Product_Code=CU-USA01076&Category_Code=Clearance

[syncere]

It's too bad you are going 20l. I was looking around and found this on clearance at premiumaquatics and it includes the bulbs. You could always use your 20L as a sump and go with a 36" tank. Someone here had a nice 60 high for sale with stand. See now I'm just being an enabler.:bigsmile:

I was tempted to buy it since it's the last one and sell my lights off, just don't want to go back to those elect bills.

http://premiumaquatics.com/store/merchant.mvc?Screen=PROD&Store_Code=PA&Product_Code=CU-USA01076&Category_Code=Clearance

The more reading that I do makes me want to upgrade to a larger tank already, but I think I am at a good starting point. It is very tempting though. That would be a great light.

[syncere]

Tek t5 fixture should be here soon. So in the meantime I started modding my AC70 and this is what I got:
Any suggestions for how to mount the light or does it look ok? Its a 75w (65k) bulb I got from Lowes with a clamp-on fixture. Also my divider is about a half inch off the bottom of the AC, how will that affect it? I still have the other part of the media basket I can silicone in.

[syncere]

Anyone with a similar modification have a suggestion for a different more subtle light? I'm a little worried about how much light may get into the display cause I plan on having lights running on alternate schedules.

[ErikH]

you could run LEDs

[syncere]

How many watts would they need be to grow the chaeto significantly fast?

[syncere]

Just to update, I currently have an empty 20L tank on a stand that would be able to fit a 10 gallon sump at the biggest. I have an AC70 modded fuge hanging on right now and figured that if I could eliminate having it there that would be great. Even with all the reading of different types of sumps I still only have basic knowledge as to how they work and how I would go about building one myself. I know a lot of people recommend drilling the tank but not sure if I want to take the risk of doing it myself.
I am ok with having a HOB overflow just not sure how all those pipes work.
If possible will glass shops usually drill my aquarium if I take it in to them?
How many baffles would be enough for a 10 gallon (3-4) to give good flow?
Would it be better to drill now and get rid of the AC70?
Or keep the AC70 and build an overflow later since I won't be able to drill a full tank?

Sorry for all the questions but I am just wanting to get off on the right foot before I plan on filling the tank. Thanks

Oh and just an update of equipment I have:
20L AGA
Stand
AC70 mod
GFCI Unit
2 Buckets for mixing and siphoning saltwater mix
(1) hydor theo 50 watt in AC70 fuge
(2) jager 100 w heaters
(2) Thermometers
Powerhead for mixing saltwater mix
Salt mix
Test Kit
Koralia 2 (for the meantime till I get the new mp10w es)

Planning on buying:
Refractometer
Vortech MP10
Tek 24" T5
LS
LR
RODI unit

[StevenSeas]

I would just keep the hob fuge and use an overflow box then when you hook up the sump just hang the ac 70 on ur fuge if you want. I would also recomend a hob skimmer or one w/ a small footprint such as an aqua c urchin or euro reef nano... Both of which I believe are currently for sale on here. As for hob skimmer a aqua c remora nano would work well. The advantage to a hob skimmer would bt to maximize the space in the 10 for a good return pump, intake w/ filter sock, and then some other mech/chem filtration, maybe even a fuge and get rid of the ac 70 just my opinion.

[Big_Pun]

heres some reading on sumps also look around this site marc has alot of articles.......http://www.melevsreef.com/acrylics/sumps/glass/index.html

you can take to most of the LFS and they can drill it for you i know Gabe does, i would go with a fuge you can use the ac70 torun other media like carbon or chemi pure elite since your going to have a small fuge or for emergencies to run more carbon. dont worry keep asking questions that way you run into less problems later. you dont need a vortech on that size tank i would run 2 of the new nano koralias (425gph)on a wave maker or the the 2x750gh on like the jbj wave maker save money for other things. also with a fuge you can run a skimmer in there.

[syncere]

Thanks. I did think about running a hob skimmer but wasn't too sure which ones would be too powerful depending on the bio-load I get when I start choosing livestock. But definitley going to be on the to-do list of reading up on it. Catching up on info on the sumps info too but just not sure whether to drill my tank or not.

[syncere]

Ok I am really debating on drilling my tank and adding a sump. From most of what I read on a tank my size is mixed opinions on why or why not to drill. So I am thinking of two different scenarios both in which I am in no rush to complete and know that either way I go there will be a price difference.

Scenario #1: Drill the tank and add a 10 gallon sump to eliminate a lot of equipment from the display. Questions I have about this set-up are based on what I have read. Is a 10 gallon sump worth having if the water volume is only going to be slightly more? How much does drilling usually run (don't have the tools, unless someone wants to help me out :))and would I need to do it to both tanks? Was planning on one hole in each top corner (one for draining and one for return), is that enough?

Scenario #2: Keep the tank as is and add on/replace AC70 fuge with a good quality HOB skimmer and more live rock (25-30 total) for a more natural filtration method.
Is that enough or do I need to keep the AC70 fuge?

I know in the end it is all personal preference but having not done this before would really like to understand if they would both work. If so it would all come down to what I want to do. Ears are open to any suggestions though and greatly appreciated.

Thanks

[Big_Pun]

i would have some kind of fuge. fuge helps with filtration and a home to pods and other good reef creatures. with a tank that big, weekly water changes should be good and you can skip the skimmer. or have a acrylic sump made to what your needs will be, also instead of a 10g get another 20g tank and use that as a fuge more volume and space.

[syncere]

Would like to put a larger fuge but the tank stand I have right now has some tight size constrictions. The 10 would fit perfect under there.

[syncere]

heres some reading on sumps also look around this site marc has alot of articles.......http://www.melevsreef.com/acrylics/sumps/glass/index.html
you dont need a vortech on that size tank i would run 2 of the new nano koralias (425gph)on a wave maker or the the 2x750gh on like the jbj wave maker save money for other things. also with a fuge you can run a skimmer in there.

I'm really thinking about 2 of the nano 425. But is the mp10 really too much even if I upgraded to that later?