Help me create a tank setup

ndz98 · Dec 14, 2016

I've been kind of dabbling in the idea of setting up a bigger tank lately mainly because I will be moving soon and figured it would be a great time to upgrade. It won't be for a couple months so I was just gonna get things here and there until then. But I want to get some suggestions on some setups without breaking the bank. I'm looking to get probably at least a 60 gallon tank or somewhere in that range. I like Red Sea reefers but don't really have Red Sea reefer kind of money lol. I also like the IM tanks but I like having a sump. I am also open to whatever DIY stuff if it can save some money as long as it isn't too hard. So if any of you are bored and feel like helping me out and making a list of setups (tank, stand, circulation pumps, skimmer, etc.) I'd really appreciate it!

AcanSkywalker · Dec 14, 2016

Start by buying two tanks, one for building your sump. Look for a dollar a gallon sale, Petsmart, & Petco have them often. For that size tank I can't imagine a better return pump than the Rio 2100. Leave enough room in the sump for some Marine pure. Lowe's has a good selection for plumbing parts. Be sure to add a check valve on your return. Tropic Eden Reefflakes is the best substrate you can find in my opinion. Aqueon Pro heaters are reliable and inexpensive. A Green element EVO quad led for an affordable light that will grow most any corals. SCA makes a decent protein skimmer for that size system. If you can afford too buy a backup pump and a heater controller Bulk Reef Supply recently had a great deal on their 4 stage value plus 75 RODI system that includes a flush kit, pressure gage, and built in TDS meter for $140. I prefer to start with live sand and dry rock to try and avoid pest. Add a bottle of Dr. Tim's and you should be good to go. Of course you can always buy used if you have the cash.
Good luck with the build, I look forward to your thread.

ndz98 · Dec 14, 2016

AcanSkywalker said:
Start by buying two tanks, one for building your sump. Look for a dollar a gallon sale, Petsmart, & Petco have them often. For that size tank I can't imagine a better return pump than the Rio 2100. Leave enough room in the sump for some Marine pure. Lowe's has a good selection for plumbing parts. Be sure to add a check valve on your return. Tropic Eden Reefflakes is the best substrate you can find in my opinion. Aqueon Pro heaters are reliable and inexpensive. A Green element EVO quad led for an affordable light that will grow most any corals. SCA makes a decent protein skimmer for that size system. If you can afford too buy a backup pump and a heater controller Bulk Reef Supply recently had a great deal on their 4 stage value plus 75 RODI system that includes a flush kit, pressure gage, and built in TDS meter for $140. I prefer to start with live sand and dry rock to try and avoid pest. Add a bottle of Dr. Tim's and you should be good to go. Of course you can always buy used if you have the cash.
Good luck with the build, I look forward to your thread.

Thanks for all the suggestions! I'll definitely look into it some more.