Need some advice on Nano at work

[yetti]

I want to setup a Nano in my office at work. Soft corals and a fish or two.
Does anyone have any recommendations for brands, models, anything? Getting started won't be a big deal since I have to large established reefs at home, I just would like to get up as cost effectively as possible and still have easy maintenance.
Also anyone have a Nano at work? Drawbacks, pitfalls that you've seen?

 

[devilboy]

there is a few nano cubes out there to choose from: Current USA, JBJ, CPR, and some others. i am not going to make a recommendation about them, i do not want to get ripped on by others. each individual has their own preferances. just do some google searches and see which one appeals to you the most.

 

[zoie2]

I got my first nano 2 weeks ago. So far everything is perfect. I have listened to the advise on this site, read the horor stories of those that don't, and so far so good. I keep reading that the biggest thing is patience, so I am trying not to rush anything. I bought a book on mini reefs and I rented the saltwater aquariums for Dummies from the library. They were both really helpful. I love my nano cube!!!!
Good luck!

 

[cheapfish1]

i personally havent tried a nano but i read quit a bit on this site and what i have heard about nanos at work is that
1. over the weekend alot can happen and you can really do anything about it.
2. Evaporation over the weekend
mostly jusst stuff you cant deal with when you arent there for the weekend or holidays.

 

[tinyreef]

i'd second the evaporation issue. you will need an ATO. a very good/reliable one.
you'll be leaving the tank for over two days each week, a lot can go wrong in that period of time and creating a sw mess may not aid your employment opportunities.
temperature is also another issue, hot and cold temps. the cold you can easily address with adequate heaters (i recommend two smaller ones rather than one large). the heat will be your main problem (as usual for nanos).
power consumption may be an issue depending on your work environment. i'd also keep an eye on cleanliness so that others don't complain (especially the boss).
i'd suggest doing it at home first and then setting up at work, just so that you work out the kinks where it's more easy to do so (rather than in a work environment).
a 2.5g~3g setup is unobtrusive imo. a NC or via aqua are more showy though but obviously much bigger and would probably require permission. a tiny tank may be overlooked by managers but a honking tank kinda distracts.