- Joined
- Sep 13, 2017
- Messages
- 38
- Reaction score
- 14
I've been reading and watching A LOT of videos. I've seen most of the BRS videos on setting up a tank and have the general idea about how to do it but everything varies so much by tank size and other factors it's hard to now exactly what size items (piping, sump, pump, etc) I need for my specific tank. I really tried doing the research so I wouldn't have to bother anyone, but at this point I'm really looking for some tailor made direction/advice if you guys don't mind.
About me and the tank:
I'm planning on having a reef tank, but really only plan to keep fish and soft corals. I'm middle class and frugal. I would like to get good equipment the first time and avoid buying cheap; and getting the good stuff later spending more overall in the long run. Basically, I don't want cheap stuff, but I'm not looking for "top of the line" when something more affordable will perform just as well. I am a woodworker and plan to make my own stand. The tank will be backed up against a wall.
So far, I have:
- 75 gallon Aqueon {$160 from LFS} (48½ x 18½ x 211⁄8). LFS told me the back was not tempered. I don't have any non led screens to check
- Eshopps Eclipse L {$107 on Amazon} (I'm concerned about the low water level issue)
- 15# of Pukani rock on the way from BRS {$51.85 from BulkReefSupply.com}
My plan is:
Step 1: Drill the tank. I've watched a lot of videos on the process of drilling and think I'm ready. What size hole should I drill for my return?
Step 2: Build a stand.
Step 3: Install pre-made sump, pump and plumb the tank
Step 4: Introduce live sand and dry rock to start the cycling process
**Adjust as necessary**
I'm looking for recommendations on:
-Pre-made sump
-Return pump (is DC worth the extra price?)
-Protein Skimmer (I see Reef Octopus 110INT mentioned a lot)
-Heater
-Lights (I'll probably have to save up for good lights from what I'm seeing)
I will update regularly including prices and post pictures as I go along. I'm hoping this will also help out someone like me that's just looking for a step by step guide on how to build a 75 gallon reef tank.
**Full disclosure, I had a 30 gallon reef about 15 years ago but never took it too serious, rarely did water changes and used all cheap hang on equipment; Treat me like a newb**
About me and the tank:
I'm planning on having a reef tank, but really only plan to keep fish and soft corals. I'm middle class and frugal. I would like to get good equipment the first time and avoid buying cheap; and getting the good stuff later spending more overall in the long run. Basically, I don't want cheap stuff, but I'm not looking for "top of the line" when something more affordable will perform just as well. I am a woodworker and plan to make my own stand. The tank will be backed up against a wall.
So far, I have:
- 75 gallon Aqueon {$160 from LFS} (48½ x 18½ x 211⁄8). LFS told me the back was not tempered. I don't have any non led screens to check
- Eshopps Eclipse L {$107 on Amazon} (I'm concerned about the low water level issue)
- 15# of Pukani rock on the way from BRS {$51.85 from BulkReefSupply.com}
My plan is:
Step 1: Drill the tank. I've watched a lot of videos on the process of drilling and think I'm ready. What size hole should I drill for my return?
Step 2: Build a stand.
Step 3: Install pre-made sump, pump and plumb the tank
Step 4: Introduce live sand and dry rock to start the cycling process
**Adjust as necessary**
I'm looking for recommendations on:
-Pre-made sump
-Return pump (is DC worth the extra price?)
-Protein Skimmer (I see Reef Octopus 110INT mentioned a lot)
-Heater
-Lights (I'll probably have to save up for good lights from what I'm seeing)
I will update regularly including prices and post pictures as I go along. I'm hoping this will also help out someone like me that's just looking for a step by step guide on how to build a 75 gallon reef tank.
**Full disclosure, I had a 30 gallon reef about 15 years ago but never took it too serious, rarely did water changes and used all cheap hang on equipment; Treat me like a newb**