Reefing Equipment

Jallen42 · Oct 29, 2020

Hi all, I am extremely interested in reefing, but I’m unsure how to get started with a leg up. I have been keeping freshwater and plants for a few years and like the idea of corals. I am limited on space does anyone have ideas on tanks that are decent for saltwater that don’t take up space? Maybe with built in filtration in the back of the tank? I know smaller tanks are worse for beginning, but i have room for maybe a 20-29g tank. So I have a few more questions I’ll list to maybe help me get an idea on what to look for in products!

What RODI system would be decent for well water at 230-300 TDS? 4 stage BRS RODI unit? Could I get away with an RO buddy? Any other units that would be easy for a beginner to use?

DC Reefer · Oct 29, 2020

Welcome!!!! Red sea reefer nano should be a good tank. About 20 gallons. I have the 170 which is about 40 gallons Which I have been really happy with. I also have the brs RODI (5 stage). The good thing after initial set up you will probably only need around 5 gallons per week for water changes and top off so you should be ok with either. I have never used the buddy, but the BRS has been easy to use and reliable. Had it going for 10 years. If you were making a lot of water I would definitely go with the BRS system. Good luck with your tank.

Miguel Negron · Oct 29, 2020

Welcome and agree ^^^

Pistondog · Oct 29, 2020

Jallen42 said:
Hi all, I am extremely interested in reefing, but I’m unsure how to get started with a leg up. I have been keeping freshwater and plants for a few years and like the idea of corals. I am limited on space does anyone have ideas on tanks that are decent for saltwater that don’t take up space? Maybe with built in filtration in the back of the tank? I know smaller tanks are worse for beginning, but i have room for maybe a 20-29g tank. So I have a few more questions I’ll list to maybe help me get an idea on what to look for in products!

What RODI system would be decent for well water at 230-300 TDS? 4 stage BRS RODI unit? Could I get away with an RO buddy? Any other units that would be easy for a beginner to use?

Welcome Jalen,
+1 on the brs rodi
I have this one after a couple of Amazon systems

4 Stage Value Plus RO/DI System

BRS 4 Stage Systems are perfect for reefers who have water treated with chlorine or relatively clean well water. Self-contained on a single bracket making them ideal for tight spaces or where a non-permanent connection may be required. Every BRS RODI system can be installed within minutes with...

www.bulkreefsupply.com

Hugh Mann · Oct 29, 2020

Welcome to our little neck of the internet!

I'm not overly familiar with all in one (AIO) systems, though there are many to choose from. I hear a lot of good things about the red sea tanks.

As for Rodi units, I bought a 6 stage Geekpure off Amazon. Takes my 150-300+tds city water to 0-10. Good volume too.

One recommendation I have is shop used, especially at the start. I've bought almost all of my tanks, sumps and other equipment used for a fraction of the price of new. Takes some elbow grease to clean 'em up usually, but worth it

Just my two cents, but I would also recommend going fish only at first, get used to maintaining a saltwater aquarium before making the jump into corals. Cheaper too, in case you decide it's not for you.