Ato and lights

[Newbie reefer]

Hello everyone... I am looking for an ato system and/or led lights for my 90 gallon...I have limited money...so please be fair in pricing...thanks

 

[CodyRVA]

As far as an ATO, its definitely more pricy, but i'm a fan of the Smart ATO. You can go with the JBJ, its much cheaper, but i always hear bad reviews. Apparently you can mod them to improve performance, but i've never done so, someone else who has can chime in. You might be able to experiment with cheaper "Chinese" built LED systems off of amazon or ebay. Some people avoid them out of fear of poor quality because of how much cheaper they are in price compared to what you'd find on BRS, Marine Depot, etc, but I hear about a 50/50 good and bad reviews on them. Good luck!

 

[aslmx]

Jbj is fine. I've used the same one for years. I've replaced the float switch but you'll have to do that with any of them. I'd find a used t5 or halide and stay away from cheap leds. I learned that lesson the hard way.

 

[PensacolaReefer]

I have 2 JBJ they work flawless. Check when doing regular maintenance to discard any algae buildup, salt creep, or snails lol. Smart ATO must keep eye clean so I've never been comfortable with that technology alone. Hope this helps.

 

[GaryO]

I built my own ATO with an ebay float switch relay and cheap power supply. The parts were cheap so I got enough to make 5 just in case. I could set some on up with a ATO parts for $10 you will need to get a small pump and some wire and tubing . Gary

 

[Coastie Reefer]

I have a smart ato micro, and it's awesome. 125 retail, but probably going to be some black Friday sales on it. MarsAqua led from Amazon has great reviews and the 32" fixture is under $200

 

[MaiReef]

autotopoff dot com sells a double system that works quite well. I recommend 2 of the AquaticLife xs-uv 14" fixtures. They are $279 a piece direct from the company and they are fully programmable on their own. Tons of light and completely adjustable spectrum.

 

[Mrx7899]

For lights I really like my 2 rapid led Corona lights getting really nice growth and colors in my sps dominant tank. For the price they are pretty hard to beat I think

 

[knap_123]

Build ato , cost you $25 or less. I have diy 48 " leds by rapid led. Separate DC immersed white/blue . Keep most anything with them. And easy to work on or change do ides if you need $100