Making a huge jump!

[WilloftheWolf]

hi all!
I recently inherited a 125g tank and would like to set it up as a reef aquarium. I have kept a 30g for about 3 years, but this size jump has me a bit nervous.

The LFS has helped me with a list of supplies I'll need to accrue and it will take me several pay checks to get everything ready. I'd like to eventually transfer my 30g into the 125g once it's cycled.

Just asking for advice from you experts in larger builds on how to proceed and any words of wisdom!

Excited and Nervous,
Will in Erie, PA

 

[iReef86]

Welcome to the big leagues, Will! Post some pictures, post some information! Lots of people with lots of history on this fantastic forum!

 

[143MPCo]

Welcome to R2R!!!

 

[TaylorPilot]

Do you have photos or a list of the things that were included, and what things you are going to need?

 

[reefdr44]

You can build an extremely enjoyable tank with minimal products. We use Closed Systems for many of our tanks and there is always very minimal upkeep and water changes.
Here is a picture of one of our clients tanks. You can see everything there is underneath which is not much.

As I stated before R2R is a source full of great information certain to make your leap into large aquarium less nerve racking.

Best of Luck to you!

 

[Ed Menard]

hi there ! Congrats on the jump...I know how you are feeling...it can feel overwhelming yet totally exciting at the same time!

i'll offer a little advice if I may, subject to my personal experiences)

I went from a 50 gallon SW tank with 6 fish to a 150 in 3 months because I believed I was ready. Turns out I both was an wasn't. I had not researched anything, I just went with what the LFS guy said....and that turned out to be a BAD mistake!...So in hindsight i'll say ask questions...there is no stupid question...people on here will advise and help and from what I'm seeing most have YEARS of REEF ADDICTION!

so heres the actual advice...BE PATIENT...in this hobby WAITING for the cycle to be done is paramount...and then be very slow adding stock so you don't overwhelm your system...that is the single best advice I can give you)...

Good luck with your new tank and please don't be shy about asking for help or advice)

 

[Great Erie Reef]

Good luck. One thing nice about the hobby is the more water volume you have the more forgiving. Remember the quality of the water is pretty much the most important part of the hobby. If the water quality is good the fish and corals follow

 

[abecker]

Congrats on getting that tank. I just went from a 75 to a 125 and love the extra space. The initial setup has always been the most stressful for me, but things will go smoothly.

 

[davocean]

I would also suggest you post what you have, and possibly what your LFS has recommended, maybe we can help save you money, make sound purchases you don't later regret, and keep complications to a minimum.
Some LFS are good for gear and advice, some are not, that would be my first tip, so research before making purchases always.