200+ build

[Tonblogna]

I have a plan in my head, but since I am new to this, I wanted to make sure there weren't any unforseen problems that would put the skids to this project. My wife and I bought a lot and plan on building. I want to make this part of the building plans, but need the input of more experienced reefers.

I plan on going around 200 gallons. I'm thinking 180 to 220, likely FOWLR and maybe some inexpensive corals as I know I want a large Angel more than anything.

Anyway the plan....the house will be a 1 story ranch with a full basement. I would like to place the tank so it can be viewed from the recreation/bar area in the basement...AND...ready for the cool part...

from the stacked or side by side stair case as you walk into the basement.

The few concerns I have thought of; the height of the stand will need to be about 4 ft. to allow decent viewing from the staircase. The ceiling will be 9 ft. T5 lighting built into canopy, will this leave me room to access tank for cleaning?

Is 200 to 220 getting to the size where ventilation is needed to prevent moisture problems?

I also need to decide to fully enclose the tank and have a fish room butting up to the stair well, or just have a stand with sumps and equipment underneath. I am thinking there would be plenty of space with the stand being so tall.

One of the biggest for me; finding a tank in my budget. Was thinking I could more likely find a used non-RR tank and have my new found buddies from RC drill it

I'm sure there a million other things to think of, so please chime in and help me out. The house plans have already been drawn up and I need to make the changes ASAP.

Thanks, Tony

 

[Nanook]

I would be thinking dimensions more than gallonage, it will help you narrow down the build.

The tank I would choose for angels would be at least 8 feet long, so that knocks out all of the standard built tanks by the major brands such as All-Glass Aquarium and Oceanic. Perfecto might have an 8-foot tank, but I would be leary of using it because of the glass being so thin on the 30" height.

Perhaps an 8ftx2ftx2ft, 240g tank? Water in a basement during the cold months equals humidity, either a dehumidifier that really rocks, or some type of HRV would be options that you should consider. Since you are only using T5 bulbs and not going crazy with corals you could perhaps scoot by with a dehumidifier.

Personally, I would have a tank room for "oh so many reasons"

I would get the tank pre-drilled. Really, the aquarium is usually the cheapest aspect of a build project, so don't skimp there.

 

[DrBDC]

Everything he said times 2.

A fish room is invaluable for space, your back when working under it, and also it places a percentage of humidity in a non-living area where you can have a dehumidifier or other option running w/o hearing it. Skimmer choices are unlimited by height and footprint as well. Some of the longer lasting pumps are too noisy for some in thier main living area i.e. Iwaki's.