Newbie to saltwater

[ben310135]

So for a while I have been doing research and looking into what kind of setup I would like to have. I am thinking of doing a 75 gallon tank I am torn between getting a drilled or undrilled tank. I have heard mixed reviews on this and I would like some input on what everyone's thoughts are on this. I know that the drilled option is better because it is adding more water volume. However are there big advantages/disadvantages to having one vs the other ? Also for a tank of this size does any one have recommendations for what kind of equipment would be good to have for the initial setup? Thanks in advanced.

 

[ethridge78]

I would go with drilled or drill yourself .Just a good skimmer and sump

 

[ben310135]

My biggest concern with a drilled tank is how does one keep it from siphoning back in when there is a power outage ?

 

[vic67]

My biggest concern with a drilled tank is how does one keep it from siphoning back in when there is a power outage ?

You would drill a hole in the return pipe to act as a siphon break. I would go with the drilled tank.

 

[ethridge78]

You can put check valves on as a back up You will have have water drain no matter what just have a big enough sump to hold the extra water.I have a 75gallon as my sump for my 300 and it never overflowed

 

[vlangel]

You can put check valves on as a back up You will have have water drain no matter what just have a big enough sump to hold the extra water.I have a 75gallon as my sump for my 300 and it never overflowed

+1 on the check valve. Drilling a pilot hole in the return at the water level works but they can get plugged by debris or a hapless snail.

 

[ethridge78]

If it were me I would just buy a RR tank and make it a full siphon and run your return over the back with your check valves but thats just my 2cents .

 

[Waters]

I actually think the siphon holes are more reliable than the check valves.....which will eventually fail without you knowing. At least with the siphon holes, they are in your view at all times and are easy to keep clean. Ideally I guess I would go with both.

 

[vlangel]

If you go with a check valve, make sure it is a flapper type, not a spring type. The spring type will corrode, weaken and fail in time. The flapper type is more reliable.

 

[PSU4ME]

Check valves are bound to fail.....just a matter of time. I just keep one of my return nozzles close to the surface (helps with agitation) and then ensure that the sump can handle the siphon volume until it breaks. Drilling the hole works too if you come up over the back. I've used both without problems.

Drilling yourself can save you money but don't drill tempered glass.

 

[Xbreakxitxdownx]

Get it drilled with a sump make sure you have a big enough sump so if power goes out the water will drain in the sump. I'm went with a reef octopus 150g