newbie questions

Tony Barrera · Jan 24, 2016

Hello,
I was hoping to get advice setting up a salt water reef system. Not even sure what questions to ask. I imagine the same basic questions have been asked time and time again, but not real computer savvy on searching through old posts. So, sorry in advance.
I has a 55 gal saltwater about 30 years ago, and things seem to have changed. No more filter hanging off the back of the tank, etc. I stopped by a local store to ask questions and get prices, byt they were mobbed. So many different options and systems, I found it very confusing. Heres some questions:
1) specific site to go to for detailed info?
2) 55 or 75 gallon tank? I know its preference, but any size provide better filtration,circulation, etc.?
3) different filter systems, lights, etc. I dont have any idea of what they are or what they do
4) My old tank used to get very dirty/algae and I hated it. I like a clean, colorful, rich looking tank. I seems like the new tank filter systems keep it cleaner?
5) Saw many "kits" all say complete system, but all have different parts?
6) Saw some tanks with "plumbing" setup in bottom tanks hidden inside the cabinet?
As you can see, totally lost. All help appreciated. Thanks, Tony

saltyfilmfolks · Jan 24, 2016

Hi. Be aware opinions vary. Find the best sources of information and articles as possible and make your own decisions. Research is key. This will also help at the store when they attempt to pull your leg an lighten your wallet.

Heres one article on the basics.
http://www.fishchannel.com/setups/saltwater/reef-aquarium-setups.aspx

aquaman67 · Jan 24, 2016

Hello,

Welcome.

Have you read this http://www.reefedition.com/291/

There are several other threads at the top of the beginner section that are worth a read too.

Basically reading here will help.

dochow · Jan 24, 2016

1.). So many sites, read them all. IMO go larger. 75 gallon makes more sense, more stable water conditions.

2.). See above.

3.). Sump with refugium. This will balance pH overnight with reverse light cycle. Also gives you ability to increase amount of salt water and hence more stable water conditions.

4.) wow, this is loaded, everyone would love a clean Alger free system. This take years of practice and tank that has cycled for over a year to develop the right fish, bacteria and clean up crew.

5.). There is no complete system. Buy a tank size that is affordable. Outfit it with the largest sump/refugium you can afford.

6.) Find a friend who is a plumber and have them help you PVC pipe your tank and sump. Talk to local LFS and discuss with us here on R2R!

PatW · Jan 24, 2016

1) Read the stickies on this site. Also there are some good u tube videos on marine aquariums.

2). I would go with the 75. The larger volume gives more stability. The greater depth gives more flexibility for aquascape so. It is half again as much volume but just a tad more work to maintain.

3). You want a protein skimmer. Protein skimmers remove complex organic molecules from the water and even fine particulates. Oh, always try to get a skimmer that is rated for a bigger tank than you have. For lights, I would go with LED. More expensive but less power use and lasts a long time.

4). The skimmers do a good job. Also get a drilled tank and use a sump. It gives you a pile of flexibility and sticks the ugly stuff out of sight.

5). I prefer choosing my own equipment.

6). The tank in the cabinet under the main tank is the sump. You stick most of your equipment in the sump which leaves your display tank uncluttered.

Salty1962 · Jan 24, 2016

It depends greatly on what you want to achieve with your livestock and what your budget is. Keep asking questions before your dive into something! There is a lot of great knowledge on this site. I learn something new everyday and I've been reefing for over 25 yrs.. Most of all, be patient and take baby steps to assure your pleasure and success!!!
JMHO

captc07 · Jan 24, 2016

I would go with the 75 gallon. For reasons others have already said. The more water volume you have the more forgiving against any "mishaps". Also the depth of the tank is much nicer to scape then that of a 55. As far as filtration I would definitely recommend going with a reef ready tank. That way you can have a sump and refugium.