Help me build out my sump!

[Jake DiMeglio]

hey everyone,

im relatively new to owning a large tank. I recently purchased a waterbox 190.5 and looking for some advise for what to throw down in the sump.

Currently i just have a duel reactor with biopellets in there.

Will get carbon and GFO soon. Protein skimmer as well.

But what else should i get?

i am on somewhat of a budget and cant blow $1000 but looking for some help and what is the best bang for my buck.

Thanks

 

[ScottieB]

Sounds like your off to a good start!
I'm kind of a minimalist, but I would start with a return pump, a Protein Skimmer, an auto top off system and a good heater in the sump, optionally would be a refugium light if your sump allows. I suppose it depends on how high tech you want to get but that how I would start.
The rest can be added as you go. Eventually adding either the GFO or the Biopellets (you may not need both) as the tank matures (if you dont go the refugium route).

 

[Jake DiMeglio]

Sounds like your off to a good start!
I'm kind of a minimalist, but I would start with a return pump, a Protein Skimmer, an auto top off system and a good heater in the sump, optionally would be a refugium light if your sump allows. I suppose it depends on how high tech you want to get but that how I would start.
The rest can be added as you go. Eventually adding either the GFO or the Biopellets (you may not need both) as the tank matures (if you dont go the refugium route).

I got a COR20, 2 heaters, and currently have the bio pellets running to help build up some good bacteria.

Protein skimmer is next.

i need a good ATO i cant decide as so many people have different suggestions.

 

[NPD_289]

Depending on how much rock you are using in the DT, a Bio Sphere block might be useful. Other alternatives are Brightwell or Seacham matrix. Basically, extra surface area for beneficial bacteria.

 

[Jake DiMeglio]

Depending on how much rock you are using in the DT, a Bio Sphere block might be useful. Other alternatives are Brightwell or Seacham matrix. Basically, extra surface area for beneficial bacteria.

in the DT is about 180lbs. i was looking at some bio blocks. do you recommenced any specific ones?

 

[MrDellimore]

I have a very similar sized system as you. Are you running an Apex with your cor20? I used the neptune ATO you can use it without an APEX but I am geeking out trying to make auto water changes and such.

I also got a clarisea rollermat connected to the main drain.

What size is your sump? What are you planning to stock your tank with?

 

[NPD_289]

in the DT is about 180lbs. i was looking at some bio blocks. do you recommenced any specific ones?

I bought the Brightwell NO3 block with the hope it would help with nitrate reduction. I'm currently cycling a Waterbox 100.3 so it's too early to tell if it will help with that but at the very least it adds extra surface area for the bacteria.

 

[Jake DiMeglio]

I have a very similar sized system as you. Are you running an Apex with your cor20? I used the neptune ATO you can use it without an APEX but I am geeking out trying to make auto water changes and such.

I also got a clarisea rollermat connected to the main drain.

What size is your sump? What are you planning to stock your tank with?

it is the stock sump. 2 7 inch socks. (Not using). Fuge section skimmer ato and return.