Here we go...Red Sea Reefer XL425 build

Jon Ross · May 25, 2017

Hey everyone! I'm new to the the hobby and excited to set up this little piece of heaven in my living room. I grew up owning multiple freshwater tanks at one point or another so now I am looking for a bit more of a challenge.

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I have an order in for a XL425 that I will get at the end of June; for tight now I have my QT set up and cycling.( That has been a challenge in itself)

I set up my 20 gal QT back in April using Aquaforest Sea Salt at .31ppt. I added Dr. Tims ammonium (enough for 17 gal worth of water), Aquaforest Bio S (1 drop everyday for 14 days), and Aquaforest Life Bio Fil ( added aprox 250 ml).

I tested everyday for 2 weeks and my NH3/NH4 stayed at about 4ppm, NO2 topped out at .2, and NO3 remained steady at 2. I let it ride for another 2 weeks and there were no changes. ( It stalled)

I spoke to my LFS and they recommended a water change.

I took the guy up on his recommendation and did a 5 gal water change which took the NH3/NH4 down to 2ppm. 24hrs later I did another water change and replaced 10 gal which then brought it down to 1ppm NH3/NH4.

And that brings us to today...still waiting;Nailbiting

I have been reading tons of articles, I will throw some of the links below.
https://www.reef2reef.com/ams/cycling-an-aquarium.303/
https://www.reef2reef.com/ams/cycling-an-aquarium.303/
https://www.reef2reef.com/ams/the-intricate-process-of-feeding.24/
https://www.reef2reef.com/ams/how-to-plan-a-livestock-list.105/
https://www.reef2reef.com/ams/fish-shopping-101-tips-to-buying-a-healthy-fish.14/
https://www.reef2reef.com/ams/video-how-to-sterilize-a-quarantine-tank.201/

If anyone has advice or recommendations I a eager to hear them.

Brew12 · May 25, 2017

Welcome to Reef2Reef and to the hobby! You picked up a fantastic system, can't wait to see what you can do with it!

Looking at your picture I think you have a flow problem. The nitrifying bacteria are going to try and reproduce on the hard surfaces. It looks like you have some sponge and porous material in a bag but I don't see anything that will provide flow through the bag.

For a QT system I would recommend an oversized HOB filter. You can make it work with a powerhead and sponge filter but it just isn't my preference.

Please ask if you have any questions!

Jon Ross · May 25, 2017

Brew12 said:
Welcome to Reef2Reef and to the hobby! You picked up a fantastic system, can't wait to see what you can do with it!

Looking at your picture I think you have a flow problem. The nitrifying bacteria are going to try and reproduce on the hard surfaces. It looks like you have some sponge and porous material in a bag but I don't see anything that will provide flow through the bag.

For a QT system I would recommend an oversized HOB filter. You can make it work with a powerhead and sponge filter but it just isn't my preference.

Please ask if you have any questions!

Thanks for the quick reply. I had an MJ600 in there for flow but apparently Cobalt is having problems with the impellers and I have been through 2 already with a third on the way, anyhow I will take your advice and pick up a HOB as that was what I originally wanted to go with but got talked out of it at the store. Thanks again!

Jon Ross · May 27, 2017

As per @Brew12 's suggestion I bought an Fluval Aquaclear 70 and set it up on my QT. I placed 2 sponges, Fluval bio media, and Aquaforest Life bio fil Media, Let's see how this works.

Let's not forget the fallen this weekend! Remember those that have who have given all in the fight to protect out freedom! R.I.P. EODCS Scott Dayton and EODC Jason Finan.