When I was 16 I got my first job at an aquarium store. I was hooked by the end of my first week. I spent the next 9 years of my life with 3-5 tanks at a time. I then got married, had kids, etc., and left the hobby. Fast forward 10 years later and I saw a billboard for Reefapolooza in Costa Mesa today. Needless to say, I feel the bug again and want to get back into the hobby.
I just so happen to have an open spot in my office at work:
The opening has the following dimensions
a TIGHT 4 feet long, and not an inch more
2 feet wide, but can go a little more if needed
a max of 5 feet in height, and if the stand is 29 inches tall, it would be the same height at the other counters in the pic
Here is where I need help. Walking around the event today, and looking around online, it's obvious there are a ton of options. Can someone give me some advice on how to proceed?
I'm not sure I'm looking for a full-blown reef tank (I'd even consider the fake coral if algae isn't a problem), but maybe live rock and some hearty coral. I'd really love to get a juvenile emperor angel and watch it grow.
What do you all suggest for a tank/system these days that helps keep maintenance at a low and looks great. I really liked what I saw in the aquariums without hoods... pretty neat. I always had scratching problems with acrylic so was thinking of glass unless things have changed in the last 10 years.
The biggest concern I have for this space is the temperature. Our AC/heater is spotty and the temp can fluctuate in the office. I realize getting heaters in the sump won't be a problem, but is there a good chiller in the market to ensure the temp stays consistent?
I don't mind spending a little extra cash if it means saving money and headaches in the long run.
Really looking forward to your thoughts as I get back into the greatest hobby in the world! Hope to meet everyone at future events. Thank you!
I just so happen to have an open spot in my office at work:
The opening has the following dimensions
a TIGHT 4 feet long, and not an inch more
2 feet wide, but can go a little more if needed
a max of 5 feet in height, and if the stand is 29 inches tall, it would be the same height at the other counters in the pic
Here is where I need help. Walking around the event today, and looking around online, it's obvious there are a ton of options. Can someone give me some advice on how to proceed?
I'm not sure I'm looking for a full-blown reef tank (I'd even consider the fake coral if algae isn't a problem), but maybe live rock and some hearty coral. I'd really love to get a juvenile emperor angel and watch it grow.
What do you all suggest for a tank/system these days that helps keep maintenance at a low and looks great. I really liked what I saw in the aquariums without hoods... pretty neat. I always had scratching problems with acrylic so was thinking of glass unless things have changed in the last 10 years.
The biggest concern I have for this space is the temperature. Our AC/heater is spotty and the temp can fluctuate in the office. I realize getting heaters in the sump won't be a problem, but is there a good chiller in the market to ensure the temp stays consistent?
I don't mind spending a little extra cash if it means saving money and headaches in the long run.
Really looking forward to your thoughts as I get back into the greatest hobby in the world! Hope to meet everyone at future events. Thank you!
