HELP! Red Sea 250 Equipment advice

[NikkiNoo]

I bought a second hand Red Sea 250.

All I have so far is live sand
Live rock
A skimmer
A heater
A pump

Please advise what filter I should get? I’ve heard the Red Sea mat 500 is the best but is there a cheaper alternative that would do the job until I save up for one?

Light recommendations too please?

Also, anything else you think is an absolute must?

I’m in the UK

 

[Formulator]

You will need more than one pump. You need a return pump for the sump and a couple powerheads for flow in the tank. Other than that, I think you have the basics needed. I’m old school with lighting and love my metal halide/T5 hybrid fixture. If you are on a budget, this is also often a cheaper route than LED, so worth considering. You don’t actually need a mechanical filter. Certainly not a roller mat. Most folks just use filter socks or nothing at all. The skimmer removes particulate matter to an extent. Socks just give you ultra clear water, but they have to be changed regularly, which becomes a chore. This is where the reef mat comes in. Its just a luxury item.

 

[NikkiNoo]

Thanks. I will have a look for some power heads. Would you have the skimmer on or off during the cycle?

 

[Formulator]

Thanks. I will have a look for some power heads. Would you have the skimmer on or off during the cycle?

You can leave it off for cycling, but I suggest you turn it on a few hours or the day before adding first fish. It will help stabilize and keep your pH up which can help detoxify ammonia with the added bioload. With a good cycle, this probably isn’t an issue, but might as well just do it.