55gal fresh to reef on a budget

[duper15597]

Hey all!, I am new to saltwater reef tanks. I have had freshwater tanks for years and I want to make the change. I have a 55gal not drilled tank at my house now. I am looking to do this on a budget to make sure I can do this. Can I use this tank with a HOB skimmer, Biowheel filter, T5 Lighting, Powerhead, liverock ,heater, sand and then fish and coral. But will these items be enough to start and "get my feet wet"? I know I need testing equipment and all of that. I am just trying to take my 55gal that is freshwater setup to a reef setup. Thanks for your help everyone.

 

[pondman]

Looks like a good start then upgrade your filtration and lighting along the way

 

[moulton1853]

Yes you can. That is exactly what I am doing. I have a basic 55g with HOB filter, HOB skimmer, live sand, dry rock, powerhead and t5 lights. Been going for 7 mos now and the only thing I really have had issues with are nitrates but have been able to keep them steady at 5 for the past 3 mos. Biggest thing is to keep the filter pads cleaned and change often.

 

[jmanley7]

Check out MarsAqua led lights on eBay for cheaper led lights