New to saltwater need help!

[Tolnik]

So I have decided now that I have moved to take my 59g tank and turn to saltwater coral tank.

What I have figured and found out so far is that I want a 10g refugium that has a skimmer on it and putting the heater in it. Going with a 5 in. Base for material (don't know what type is best?) within the middle compartment.

I have found led lights to go on the main tank with metal lights over the refugium, on a timer.

Any help would be great for getting this project started. Thanks!

 

[TrialandError]

Get a bigger tank for your sump. A 20gal long would work great.

 

[Tolnik]

Thanks! I will look into what fits in my stand!

 

[revhtree Verified Admin]

Welcome to R2R!

Was there a reason for a 10g refugium? Do you have room for a bigger sump?

 

[Tolnik]

The refugium is my thought for a biological filter with the skimmer being a mechanical filter.

As for size I believe the 20g will fit I have to go and get the dimensions to be sure for it will be a tight fit.

What are your thoughts?

 

[mike007]

Welcome

 

[ScottyMcReefer]

Welcome! Take this hobby slow! But enjoy what the ocean has to give you

 

[JLight]

I would suggest using live sand, Nature's Ocean is a good brand. And to start out i would also suggest t5 lighting because its the easiest to understand and most widely used. LED's can be pricey. And as for the light over the refugium you could just use a stainless steel shop light with a plant growth bulb in it, $15 bucks tops at home depot or Lowes. And like everyone else said take it slow! Most people get out the hobby much sooner then they should have because they dont have the patience to let it run its course! Good luck!!

 

[Reefing Madness]

 

[Tolnik]

I would suggest using live sand, Nature's Ocean is a good brand. And to start out i would also suggest t5 lighting because its the easiest to understand and most widely used. LED's can be pricey. And as for the light over the refugium you could just use a stainless steel shop light with a plant growth bulb in it, $15 bucks tops at home depot or Lowes. And like everyone else said take it slow! Most people get out the hobby much sooner then they should have because they dont have the patience to let it run its course! Good luck!!

Thanks for the suggestions! I'll look into them!

 

[Tolnik]

Welcome

Thanks!

 

[Tolnik]

Welcome! Take this hobby slow! But enjoy what the ocean has to give you

Thanks! I definitely will!

 

[Palting]

How will you do your overflow? Have you considered drilling the tank?

 

[Tolnik]

I haven't yet decided which one is better to do?

 

[Palting]

Even the HOB overflow manufacturers concede the drilled is better. Easy enough to do, with the back wall of tanks usually drill able.

 

[Tolnik]

Thanks for the advice! I will look into doing that!