Is it worth it?

markw

markw

Member
I was thinking about putting up a 20gal reef. After researching online, Ive determined that its going to cost me about $500 for everything I need minus the sump and livestock. After looking around on the same places, Ive found out that if I were to set up a 75gal tank (I have both sitting that I could use), it would cost me about $800 minus sump and livestock. I would just use the 20gal long as a sump/refuge if I set up the bigger one. So, I guess my question is: should I set up the 20gal long as a starter tank then upgrade to the bigger one later once I know everything is good, or should I just jump right in and start off with the 75gal? The way I figure it, more water means it takes alot longer for there to be a water parameter issue and I could deal with it better if such a thing happened. Plus, if I set up the 20gal long and find out I want a bigger tank, Im going to have to rebuy all the equipment anyway, therefore spending double what I would if I were to just set up the 75 first. So, either way, Im going to be buying the equipment needed for the 75 in the long run. I didnt know if there were some advantage I was missing for starting out with the 20gal long instead of the 75? So, should I start with the bigger or smaller tank? I dont mind spending the extra money once if it will be better for me and the tank in the long run.
Mark
 
flower

flower

Well-Known Member

Wise beyond your years.....
YES...start out with the size you want...Bigger is easier, and in my opinion better.
I started with a 55g, then upgraded to a 75g..now I have a 90g and today I started looking at a 120g. I have spent a small fortune.
 
xcali1985

xcali1985

Active Member
There is usually a base startup price, such as it cost ~220$ for a protein skimmer for 100gallons but 240$ for one thats 150 gallons. So while yes it would be smart to get the biggest you can house and support as it will allow you to make mistakes with a little more cushion. Remember that once you have mastered the current size your eyes will get bigger for more simply because you will always want to add more fish, corals, etc. Im moving from a 55 to an 80 as we speak and im pretty sure in a year ill be looking at a 125 gallon. Ive learnt a lot since ive started and hopefully in a year it will allow me to really put my skills to work on a larger level, God willing.
 
markw

markw

Member
I didnt want to start too big as I dont really have the room for it, but I was going to eventually transfer into the 75 anyway and I figured I should probably start with that and not spend the money twice within a year or two. It will also allow me to get more than 5 fish.
.
Mark
 
S

shrimpy brains

Guest
'd go with the 75g. When I started out with a 90g, I thought it was huge. Now, my 125g seems small.

Set up the 75 and use the 20g for your refugium. Check out the do-it-yourself forum on this site. You can get alot of ideas that will help you save money.
 
markw

markw

Member
I planned on doing the DIY sump that you can find on youtube (limpitz reef or something like that). I will do that. 75gal it is then.
Mark
 
seschaefer

seschaefer

Member
Looks to me like you done good. Excellent choice going with the 75 gal to start. I started with a 20 gal and within 6 months was up to a 120. Wish I had just gone bigger in the first place.
 
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