New build planning

11f150 · Oct 29, 2012

Was talking to Chris for a short time today and Im going to start planning my new setup once I get into my house. Just want some input from some members.

- Tank size 48x24x24
- Want to get 1 LED unit

Ill start with these 2 items first, where are some local places to get a tank without shipping that sells this size?
What are some light fixture options?

Bishop · Oct 29, 2012

11f150 said:
Was talking to Chris for a short time today and Im going to start planning my new setup once I get into my house. Just want some input from some members.

- Tank size 48x24x24
- Want to get 1 LED unit

Ill start with these 2 items first, where are some local places to get a tank without shipping that sells this size?
What are some light fixture options?

The 48 x 24 foot print is a sure winner for a reef tank but personally, I'd drop the hight to about 20" if you go custom. Reason for this is that loosing the 4 inches in hight will increase the effectiveness of lighting since it quickly disipates with distance. As the distance doubles the light is reduced by 75%. The other reason is that it is so much easier to reach your hand to the bottom of a 20" tank compared a 24". It's just a couple things to think about.

As for the LED unit. The only real option is a DIY kit. For a tank that size, I would go with 2x 20"x6" heatsinks from rapid.
6" x 20" Black Anodized Aluminum Heat Sink - Rapid LED
These are awesome as they are easy to add fans and hanging kits as well as hold splashguards. From there, should be little problem to build a nice wooden box to house the block and drivers.

Going with some new 5w LED's is going to be the best option but when money starts to become an issue, cheaper 3w LEDs are still very good to go with. Aquarium 120 LEDs Dimmable DIY LED kit with optics

Dowtish · Oct 29, 2012

Chris Beggins at the Aquatic Critter can get you exactly what you need. I would go talk to him about your options in tank manufacturer, overflow designs etc. But in the price he quotes, there will be some sort of shipping charge included whether he mentions it or not.

There is always the possibility of someone selling a tank used, but those dimensions seem to be pretty rare these days.

Shipping isnt all that bad, if you want to go super nice and custom, you can get a design quote from Felix at Reef Savvy. Best tank maker in the U.S. IMO. Be sure to mention MTRC and Rick Lowes' name.(mixer911):bigsmile:
Reef Savvy

schooleyosis · Oct 29, 2012

Great size thank, that is exactly what I have. The only thing I would like different is the height. At times it can be a pain to get to the bottom, especially in the back of the tank.

I think glasscages is near Nashville and you could probably save a ton by looking at their website and going there yourself to pick the tank up! I have not been there yet but they open up their warehouse on the weekends by invitation only (you must apply I believe) and guess you can get tanks for dirt cheap. Problem is you have to buy on the spot and have help to load what you buy!

solar · Oct 31, 2012

schooleyosis said:
Great size thank, that is exactly what I have. The only thing I would like different is the height. At times it can be a pain to get to the bottom, especially in the back of the tank.

I think glasscages is near Nashville and you could probably save a ton by looking at their website and going there yourself to pick the tank up! I have not been there yet but they open up their warehouse on the weekends by invitation only (you must apply I believe) and guess you can get tanks for dirt cheap. Problem is you have to buy on the spot and have help to load what you buy!

I was gonna suggest this also, There is also a warehouse for tanks in franklin let me find a link
Glasscages.com - Home

saratj1 · Oct 31, 2012

Is glass cages the one that's only open to the public once a month? Out west of Nashville off I-40?

solar · Oct 31, 2012

saratj1 said:
Is glass cages the one that's only open to the public once a month? Out west of Nashville off I-40?

Think there open to the public on one saturday a month, I don't know the exact location but I also think you can call them and make a appointment.
Phone: (615)-446-8877 (Normal office hours are 9AM to 5PM(central time) on weekdays.)

schooleyosis · Oct 31, 2012

Yes, glasscages is open once a month to the public. It is there outlet store and is located near Dickson, TN. I-40 exit 172. Check out the link that Solar posted above, that is exactly what I was suggesting!

pickupman66 · Oct 31, 2012

You can always call them and special order it. Then pickup when ready. They can pre-drill the holes for you too.

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