480gal long time coming build

[shane reef]

So been killing myself on choosing a skimmer for the system. There is a lot of info and so many different avenues I could go. Of course I want to make he best decision I can when it comes to unloading money on a very important component. Looking at all the styles out there.
Beckett style skimmer
Needle wheel skimmer
Venturi skimmers

What are you thoughts for the best skimmer and why you suggest it? Thanks

 

[pirate2876]

And done!

 

[shane reef]

Haha that's a monster, may be too power for my system

 

[Cment]

LifeReef venturi...you won't be disappointed at all. Give Jeff a call and hell break it all down for you.

 

[KingJason]

LifeReef venturi...you won't be disappointed at all. Give Jeff a call and hell break it all down for you.

I went with a Lifereef VS3-48 for my 450. Reason is I see so many beautiful large tanks running his skimmers and the owners are almost always very happy with them.

 

[shane reef]

So lighting up the tank I have debated and looked at power consumption, also results of growth. I have decided to go with 3 250w mh and 8 48in t5 for the tank. I am going to use a 6ft Hamilton fixture on a rail to run side to side with a motor. The power consumption is not much over of having 10 led fixtures to light properly or a t5 set up to cover the tank. What are your thought?

 

[shane reef]

It was between the life reef skimmer and ev1000 skimmer. I choose to use the ev1000 as I have had great success with an ev120 on my smaller tank, set and forget it.