What to Buy Next???

[benihuma]

I have some cash and there's lots that I need. Should I get a UV filter, skimmer, live rock, build a sump??? Lights are on their way so ignore that. I am currently running a whiper 3, emperor 400, powerhead, cc, in a 45 gallon tank. I have no aspirations to make this a full reef but I do want to add live rock, around 30 lbs. Let me know what you would purchase next.
Oh yeah, I'm still cycling.
Ben

 

[broomer5]

All depends on what you want to end up with, but I suppose in order of what I would do.
1) Live Rock for sure - it does wonders for your system whether you go FO FOWLR or HYBRID REEF or whatever.
2) Decide if you are going to run a sump.
3) If going with a sump - then proceed to either build or buy one. Overflow and return pump, etc ...
4) Protein Skimmer for sure - but depends on sump or not as to which style to buy. Get one that is over rated for your tank if possible. Don't skimp on the skimmer.
5) How much cash you have? LOL cause the list can go on and on and on ........
6) Have fun upgrading
Brian

 

[sonny]

I think the protein skimmer is the most important filter device on modern aquariums. Live rock and protein skimmers really go together well. The Live rock functions as biological filtration, and the Protein skimmer helps remove the toxic ammonia before the live rock even has to convert it to nitrite/nitrate. You can get the new prizm skimmer by Red Sea for less than $100. It is supposed to handle up to 90 gallons. Maybe you could buy a few pieces of Live rock after that?
Sonny

 

[rabid seacow]

Ditto that on the prism!
I purchased mine online for a measly 62 bucks! It's rated up to ninety so I figure it's just right. It does it's job great although it takes a about a week to break in.
I am a now a skimmer proponent. All it takes is one whiff of the stuff that your comes out of your collection cup to never go without one again.
Next project for me is a sump.
Also buy as much live rock as you can afford, it's beautiful as well as functional. And before you know it....you'll probably catch the reef bug.