Do I need an Apex?

[JPergamo]

For quite a few years, I've kept simple systems with limited controllability and have been pretty successful. Lately I've had this paranoia that something horrible is going to happen to my 180 sps tank for absolutely no reason. The system is about 4 years old, I've never had fail-safes in place but I cant stop thinking about getting a controller for the first time. Half the reason is to have a new toy to infinitely tinker with, half to be a little better protected.

I'm looking to justify spending a grand on a controller so I'd just like some experiences, opinions, maybe instances of it saving your system... or not. I'm a fireman in nyc and am away from home for 24 hours at a time multiple times a week. Thanks in advance for and dialog or discussion, thoughts and opinions.
Happy Reefing.
James

 

[Brad Miller]

I went with apex and never looked back.
Using optic level sensors with their ATK auto top off and hi sump level sensor gives me assurance
Heater control, flooding, pumps not working.....Warnings and email alerts....
Your imagination concerning programming and functionality is the only thing that would limit you from peace of mind.

 

[JPergamo]

I went with apex and never looked back.
Using optic level sensors with their ATK auto top off and hi sump level sensor gives me assurance
Heater control, flooding, pumps not working.....Warnings and email alerts....
Your imagination concerning programming and functionality is the only thing that would limit you from peace of mind.

Yea this is all so awesome. The alerts alone seem very much worth it as I've had some close calls over the years.

 

[ryeguyy84]

I've had mine for years and I don't know how I functioned without it. I went with the Apex jr (I think it's called light now) and I've upgraded along the way with a PM1, wireless module, extra power strip, and break out box.

It truly does it all, when I open my cabinet it turns on a light for me, runs my ATO, heaters, pumps, everything.

I'd go for it

 

[SPR1968]

Hi James, I just posted this on a similar question but just my thoughts

It gives me the piece of mine especially when I’m away that the tank is ok and also allows me to controls certain pieces of equipment both manually and automatically in the event of certain things happening

I ran for 12 months until I purchased Apex and I wouldn’t hesitate to purchase it again. It doesn’t control everything in my system, pumps for example are on a separate circuit as they should always be on. I’ve avoided creating a single point of failure with Apex.

Apex combined with a HD Camera is essential if you travel and want the piece of mind while your away, rather than wondering what may be happening

It’s not cheap, and yes you don’t need to have it to run a successful tank, it’s your money and your choice.

 

[Crustaceon]

I use a reefkeeper 2 and have actual artificial intelligence (not the most intelligent algorithm) monitoring my tank when I go on vacation. It’s called “my brother”.

 

[Haberdasher]

I had one on the first version of my reef tank. It rotted out and started malfunctioning and Neptune support wasn't able to resolve the issues. I ended having to cut (literally) it out of my system and chuck it in the trash. I simplified my tank since and have been happier without it. I categorize it under nice-to-have; I may try it again in the future if I have some disposable money to throw at it.