Sorry this is long!
Realized I had left out a update which now is giving be some issues.
First I was not happy with my fuge in the first overflow below my filter floss in the Intank media basket. The hair algae was growing very well back there but it was the coralline buildup that was totally blocking any light, not as easy to scrape off the plastic and was getting pretty scratched. So I decided to try a filter floss holder instead of the media basket. I didn't think my fuge was doing much but my phosphate numbers have been climbing back up since this change. Chato is not getting much light as it just sinks and stays in the bottom of that chamber, was growing decent and was having to remove half before the change. I also have my UV pump next door in the second chamber so it really sucks the chato down.
How can I rework the AIO chambers to run all I want?
I've been on and off the ledge with my Tunze skimmer, its a fine product but believe the way I have to put it into a baffle is to restrictive (baffle size is 3.5x4.7) (Tunze size 3.5x4.3) and not working as intended. Had previously ordered a AquaMaxx HOB 1.5 about the same day I received some good advise to try from Tunze. Sent the AquaMaxx back and wanted to give Tunze one more shot...
With my UV, I quickly realized I'm not getting the flow required (aiming for 700gph) Using the TMC 2500 maxed out at 660gph(picked because the only size I could find to fix in a 3.5x4.7 compartment) but I have about 4ft of hose and 2-90 elbows in that line so not even close to the flow I want. Also noticed I've got algae growing inside the intake and output hosing.
Need to get a larger pump with little space...
Started looking at my return flow, I'm using x2 mightyjet dc (326gph) return pumps and are set running at the speed 1.6 (283gph) each for a total of 566gph.
The plan
-Ordered Aquamaxx HOB 1.5 to free up some chamber space and think the design will improve my skimming. On sale wahoo lol
-Ordered a Y fitting for return lines and tubing for UV, will replace the Mightyjet pumps for the TMC 2500 I'm using for UV. Will give me up to 660gph for return(don't love not having 2 pumps for fail safe)
-Ordered AI Axis 90 for the UV which will max out at 925gph, moving it to the center chamber I believe I can shorten up the length of the hose by a foot and should get to 700gph without issue.
-Ordered an Intank fuge basket for the second chamber, will solve my light bleeding at night into the display as well! Cut a new window in the back of the tank and mount the light. Will still deal with coralline on the plastic but will tackle that once everything is set.
I'll try and add some pictures tonight.
Side note it’s new SEA CRITTER day! I've got a new little acro frag and an anemone delivered keeping temp right while I finish work! Don't have the convenience of being home for delivery so work is the next best thing!
Working extra hard today…haha
