Switching to Reef Ready tank

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plasticine

Guest
Hey All. Right now I am running a basic tank with all hang on equipment ( ex. Skimmer, pumps, heater, etc ).
I am looking to upgrade the tank to something bigger and now have the option of going with a predrilled reef ready tank. Aside from the cost of the tank, what other equipment will I need to purchase/replace? What is the minimum equipment, nice to haves, and ultimate setup?
I don't want to spend too much upfront, but still would like the option to grow as needed.
 
P

plasticine

Guest
I guess I am looking for what the differences are between the 2? Do I need to have the plumbing installed when I first get it or can I cap it off and use it as is till I can get the appropriate equipment ( read money ) .
 
S

slofish

Guest
Originally Posted by Plasticine
Hey All. Right now I am running a basic tank with all hang on equipment ( ex. Skimmer, pumps, heater, etc ).
I am looking to upgrade the tank to something bigger and now have the option of going with a predrilled reef ready tank..
I use a hang on overflow for my sump now... it stinks!!!
. definitly go with a built in overflow(reef ready), it will save you much time and possibly $ in the long run.
Originally Posted by Plasticine
Aside from the cost of the tank, what other equipment will I need to purchase/replace? What is the minimum equipment, nice to haves, and ultimate setup?
if you dont have one now, you will have to set up a sump tank(any new/old, non-coppered tank will work) it adds water to your tank and gives a place to put your skimmer/filters, and heaters.
again, if you dont have already.. you'll need a return pump to send water from sump tank back into to main tank. with the right size pump and piping, you can also eliminate powerheads from the display tank.
Some PVC pipe(really cheap), ball valves and some plumbing work is goning to be required. not very difficult to plumb, just takes some time.
Originally Posted by Plasticine
I don't want to spend too much upfront, but still would like the option to grow as needed.
If you want, you can cap off the bulkheads until you get the funds to add sump/pumps/plumbing. Just be sure to keep water level below the overflow line (dont want to have standing water in the overflow chamber)
Originally Posted by Plasticine
nice to haves
Turn the sump into a refugium.. aka.. slightly different type of sump tank that has LS/mud, macroalgae, and lighting.
A costly, but amazing skimmer
Originally Posted by Plasticine
ultimate setup?
1000+gal reef tank
 
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