Setting up Reef Tank

[PolandSpring]

I have had brackish, african cichlids, for 6 years now. I just recently decided to switch over to Salt Water and soon begin reef. I was just wondering if a T5 light with 216watts would be a decent start with a 90gal 48x18x24. Also, i was just wondering what other things i would need to start a beginner reef tank?

 

[Chiefmcfuz]

First I would say get an Reverse Osmosis/ De-Ionization unit (RO/DI) if you don't already have one. Second that light is ok but you are going to want more output so I see an upgrade in the future. What type of filtration are you using? Canister? Protien skimmer? Refugium, sump? What are your parameters now?

 

[PolandSpring]

1) Brand new 48'' Aquavim T5 HO 216w (3x54 daylight, 1x54 actinics) fixture for sale (no LEDs) -- $140

2) Excellent condition 90g Ultimate Series Oceanic cherry tank with single overflow and stand (guaranteed no leaks or scratches). This has starphire glass, looks superb. -- $400

3) AGA glass sump / tank, 36x12x18. Comes with fluorescent light in lid if you wish -- $40

that is the new tank im going to use, with the sump. But i would only want like softies and a few caps and polyps. Do you think that light would be enough to hold that?

 

[PurpleTang]

he dose not have the tank yet so there are not parameters but he will soon be setting one up with in the month hes my cousin

 

[Awibrandy]

RO/DI, Protein Skimmer(NOT a SeaClone), return pump, powerheads, heaters, thermometer, sand not crushed coral if you're planning on a substrate, salt, hydrometer, test kits (ammonia, nitrite, nitrate, high ph, calcium, alkalinity), spare return pump, heaters, powerheads and depending on what fish you intend to keep a tank cover for jumpers.

 

[palyman]

the light is fine if in the future you want acro's you will have to upgrade,good luck

 

[Ricardo_Jorge]

Hi Poland,


it?s your first time with reefs?

If yes, BEFORE anything, read a lot, talk a lot, and ASK a lot!!

I thing that?s the best way to a good begin.



Hug

 

[PolandSpring]

yup, thats why im starting now, and also my cousin has a reef and can help me out, but for now im only planning on zoos, and softies with a 216watt light. That is fine, right?

 

[Ricardo_Jorge]

yeah, that?s fine for a while!
But if you try to SPS or even LPS, you?ll have to update your lighting.


If you need some help, let me know!


Hug

 

[PolandSpring]

how much is lighting for LPS and SPS? what watt would i need?

thanks btw

 

[Ricardo_Jorge]

Well, there is a REFERENCE, that you must use 1w / L. IMO this is a good begin!

NOTE: I said a REFERENCE, ok!? It?s not a rule!


I realy like MH, but you can use T5 for SPSs too. Many people uses!




Hug

 

[PolandSpring]

yah, MH is much better, i actually might be looking at those, i am still looking at other tanks i just am trying to get an idea of what i am getting,

Thanks for your help tho

 

[Ricardo_Jorge]

Ok, you?re welcome..

 

[PolandSpring]

yah.. well i was just offered new lights, MH 2x175w and VHO 2x110w
which is definitely fine for sps and lps
i can get anything with those lights right?

 

[Ricardo_Jorge]

What?s your tank size?

I think that 2x250w MH will make a big diference!


hug

 

[Master Shake]

i would at least put another actinic bulb on that light fixture, you said you had 3 10k and 1 actinic. i would have 2 of each.

 

[PolandSpring]

i got a 90gal... but im also thinking of getting some led lights
but i can keep sps in those lights righht?


Also, what is a rodi system.. and how do you set it up and where? How much does it cost? Do you prefer having one?

 

[PolandSpring]

bump.. for help

 

[Ricardo_Jorge]

Hi Poland,

I don?t know anyone that uses LEDs with SPSs yet. I don?t know if it will works properly.

A RODI is a system with two parts for filtration
RO = Reverse Osmosis
DI = Deionized

Usually it?s set up near your tap water to filter the water BEFORE the usage in the reef as topoff or water change.

The RO you have to buy because of your?s system of membranes.
The DI you can DIY without problem easily


You can use one or them separetelly, but both works better together.


A RODI or DI only or RO only, are essential for a good quality water for the reef.



Hug

 

[PolandSpring]

what would u use LED's for then?
but without havng the LED's ..the MH 2x175w/VHO 2x110w in a 90gal can keep sps in my tank?