New to reefing. Any tips?

dbl · Jan 27, 2020

Welcome to R2R and your new reefing family.

CasaReefer · Jan 27, 2020

Hi JPF... Welcome to R2R... Ask Questions... Go Slow.... And hang out here as much as possible...

fishguy242 · Jan 27, 2020

hi, best tip i can think of is enjoy!

Scott Ulrich · Jan 27, 2020

Hi and welcome! I've had a 40 gallon breeder for about a year an a half.
Must haves:
1. Refractometer
2. Digital Thermometer
3. Test kit (API saltwater kit is okay as inexpensive option)
4. RODI unit (I use a RO Buddie and get 0 tds)
5. Lights (something like this as an expensive option for growing soft or lps corals)
6. Powerheads (Hydor Koralia are effective inexpensive options)
7. Heater

A sump/refugium is nice if you have room, but if not you get a hob skimmer or internal skimmer for your tank.

A python for water changes would be good as well.

Things I ended up getting, but wish I had gotten from the start
1. ATO (Tunze Nano)
2. Calcium test kit
3. TDS meter

Good luck!
Scott

ScottB · Jan 27, 2020

Welcome to the hobby and the family. Not sure I can add to what has been suggested already.

(And I don't want your brain to explode just yet.)

Lizbeli · Jan 27, 2020

Agree with what everyone has already mentioned. So Ill just reiterate that patience is key as I am sure you have already read everywhere. Also imo, clean rodi water is so important and will increase your chances of success. I have heard too many stories of people using tap or bottled water. Nothing beats rodi.

absoluteNANOreef · Jan 27, 2020

Welcome. In regards to rock, I always like to start new tanks with dry rock that’s brand new never used before, but that’s just me. Make sure to get an ATO from the start.
Also, once your tank is cycled and ready for corals, message me and I can sell you some zoa frags I’m growing out for a really good deal since you’re new. (I’m in Montgomery NY, so we’re only 15 mins away)

P-Dub · Jan 28, 2020

Welcome to R2R!!!
Great advice and tips so far. Follow them.
If I may, just to drive this one home... SLOW DOWN AND TAKE YOUR TIME. Nothing good in reefing happens overnight and there are no real shortcuts.