New... To it all.

[Ubans13]

Also be sure to dip corals for pest.

 

[300 Kayaks]

Great advise, do you reccomend quarentine for any set time? Or just depends on the situation?

 

[Ubans13]

No matter the size you should QT. Once u introduce something to the DT its much harder to treat then in the QT tank. It is nothing expensive.

 

[300 Kayaks]

I currently am without everything needed to begin on the physical side of things. I read and read, some items are rather clear, others not so much. Its a pretty well known fact that nanos are not the best idea for somebody who is new to this as crashes happen so quickly. For somebody with no experience, what is a good size to start with?

Perhaps somebody can give me a run down on equipment I need to focus on collecting while I continue my research.

 

[Ubans13]

I started with a 55 gallon tank and african cichlids. This is my first reef tank and I have gone with a 75 gallon and 20 gallon sump.

I did the same thing you are thinking of doing and thats reading and collecting the required parts. First thing I ordered for the tank was dry rock and got it soaking. Probably soaked for 4 months. Then return pump, power heads and then a skimmer. My skimmer is not the best but gets it done. Didnt go all out beings I didnt know how it was gonna go so went with all ok stuff. Always can upgrade! Then bought test kits, RO unit and refractometer. Once tank was plumbed I added all rock and let system run to cycle. The waiting game. While waiting you can add an ATO and read about corals and fish.

Once you are addicted to this hobby you will be thankful you went with the larger tank for the extra room. You will buy coral when ever you get the chance. The swings in water parameters are much easier. Also the added size gives you more options.

 

[300 Kayaks]

Great advise and thankful for you sharing but what is an ATO?!?

 

[dbl]

ATO = Automatic Top Off.

 

[300 Kayaks]

Hey... When I said I was new. I wasnt kidding! Lol

 

[Ubans13]

It seems very overwhelming at first but ince I start and get a few fish and coral it becomes easier. And if you have any questions just post here and you will be guided in the right path very quick.

 

[dbl]

Hey... When I said I was new. I wasnt kidding! Lol

No worries at all. An ATO is a device (a sensor/float switch of some sort and a small pump) that will automatically top off your water level as you loose water from evaporation. Important to remember is you only top off with fresh, clean RO/DI water, not saltwater. The water evaporates but the salt does not.

You can top off manually at first but an ATO makes things so much easier. You'll have a reservoir of fresh water and when the desired level drops, the ATO pump kicks on and fills the sump/display back to desired level.

Many different models, thus many different opinions on which are best.

 

[Ubans13]

For some visual stuff check out youtube. Alot of info and peoples mistakes. You can get an idea of systems you like. But there are always lessons to be learned in the hobby

 

[300 Kayaks]

So, if I go with a 75 Gallon main, what size should my sump be?

 

[Ubans13]

I would do a 40 gallon breeder tank.

 

[300 Kayaks]

Sounds good! Thank you

 

[Salty1962]

Welcome to R2R! As mentioned, patience and knowledge is the key. If in doubt, read,read,read and ask.

 

[reeftanker17]

Any updates?!

 

[300 Kayaks]

Currently, still researching. A lot to learn.

 

[David Engh]

Research,research like they have said an just start looking into what you want an research some more to make sure you can make things as happy as you can. An welcome to the nest place for advice. Enjoy an don't get dicouraged.

 

[300 Kayaks]

Thank you, good advice David.

 

[David Engh]

I am doing the same thing because I've only had my tank about 8 months now. If you have questions this is the place for it these guys are very helpful. Happy reefing.