A Reefaholic's 1000+ Gallon Mixed Reef System Build

Thanks guys, the pink lemonade and Palmers are my two favorites I picked up. Lights are not on full yet but I'll snap a few more and post later.
 
Skimmer

Skimmer

Any thoughts on me running a Deltec AP1004 on my system? Feedback if you've ran the pump/skimmer?

Hey Dustin.

I have heard great things about Deltec in general. I don't know much about that specific skimmer. I am sure you are looking at all of them, however with the price of that Deltec You might look into the Super Reef Octopus Series. You might have already looked at them and I appologize if you have. I am running the SRO external 6000 skimmer on my 450 gallon system and couldn't be more impressed. It gets cleaned every other day and is LOADED with crud. The Waterblaster and bubble blaster pumps are also very impressive. I am using them for my primary circulation pumps as well and they are quiet and have very little heat. I have used a lot of skimmers and pumps and couldn't be happier with the SRO products. Pumps are also very energy efficient.

Anyway, I ran accross this one and it made me drool a bit. LOL! Might be worth a look. http://www.saltysupply.com/Reef-Octopus-Super-Reef-9000-External-Skimmer-p/oc9169.htm
 
I've been looking at all skimmers, the Deltec was just offered up used locally for $1700 and I'm not so certain it's any better than a new SRO where I can readily pick up a pump or get it repaired. I really like the Bill Wann equipment but I've heard mixed opinions on a large needlewheel skimmer of that size and the maintenance involved to keep them working properly.

I was looking at the two cone series skimmers from Octopus. Either the 5000 or 8000, not 9000:)

I already have an SRO 3000 Internal that I picked up when they first released the skimmers and have had really good results with it since day one. It's rated at 300 gallons and my thoughts are I run two skimmers...SRO 3000 internal and an external skimmer...Honestly think the SRO 5000 External would be enough.
 
I have seen Bill's most recent builds and can tell you that the skimmers he's making now are second to none. He's building me a large (24" diameter x 7ft tall) one for my 3000 gallon build and at least for a system as large as mine will be, I wouldn't even consider anything else.
 
I have seen Bill's most recent builds and can tell you that the skimmers he's making now are second to none. He's building me a large (24" diameter x 7ft tall) one for my 3000 gallon build and at least for a system as large as mine will be, I wouldn't even consider anything else.

Curious if you've seen a lot of reviews on the skimmer and if you have links. I just am a bit worried about maintenance on this type of skimmer.
 
The stuff he's building now hasn't been out that long. I can tell you that they are really simple and have no more maintenance requirements than any other skimmer...They are engineered around large tanks, not just larger versions of skimmers designed for smaller systems. That's the key difference....Pure processing power.
 
The stuff he's building now hasn't been out that long. I can tell you that they are really simple and have no more maintenance requirements than any other skimmer...They are engineered around large tanks, not just larger versions of skimmers designed for smaller systems. That's the key difference....Pure processing power.

What pump are you running on the one your planning for? He was going to add another foot to the "standard" skimmer he's selling but was still going to use the Dart. I'm sold on buying his calcium reactor, just have not yet made the same decision about the skimmer.
 
The display tank will have interior dimensions of 137" long x 76" wide x 68" deep. The system as a whole will very much resemble a scaled down version of what Bill Wann is running. I already have all of the components for a 100gallon pneumatically actuated surge, Red Lion Based PLC control system, tons of +GF+ meters and such and other stuff...Just about everything but the finished tank, skimmer and calcium reactor.
 
The display tank will have interior dimensions of 137" long x 76" wide x 68" deep. The system as a whole will very much resemble a scaled down version of what Bill Wann is running. I already have all of the components for a 100gallon pneumatically actuated surge, Red Lion Based PLC control system, tons of +GF+ meters and such and other stuff...Just about everything but the finished tank, skimmer and calcium reactor.

That's a hair over 3000 gallons. Let me know when it is up and running I'm always looking for a good place to dive:bounce3::bounce3::bounce3:

Joe
 
Dustin,
I continue to enjoy your build. However, I have noticed you are still debating skimmers. I am still pleased with my SRO xp8000e on my tank. Recently my bubble blaster plate separated and broke from the connector to the base of the skimmer. In short, I needed to order a replacement piece to reconnect the plate. It took a few weeks but despite this the skimmer skimmed like never before. My nitrogenous and phosphorous compounds remained low and my live stock stayed healthy.
I have had good success with this skimmer and the company support remains exceptional. Good luck with your choice. I remain pleased with my choice. Maintenance remains easy and actually quite fast.
 
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