A Reefaholic's 1000+ Gallon Mixed Reef System Build

[Dustin1300]

Joe, it seems the others on the Neptune thread had a similar synopsis as you. I will be using a mix of Cat 5s (Used for dimming via VDM) and USB cables that connect the different modules together. I'll likely try to keep the signal cables low and run alongside my plumbing since it seems it is of larger significance than I was thinking. I've just not had anything quirky happy due to this but would rather not test out on my reef system!

Not sure if it's of importance to you since you have a much better understanding of this than I do but they said that the Apex uses signalling based on CAN which is better? I'll not be using the probes far from the base module so those should not be crossing any power. Now just need to make sure when I make these runs that I am a bit more conscious of the power! Really appreciate the input from Dave and yourself.

 

[coralreefdoc]

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'm an advocate of this decision, Dustin, for what it's worth to you. Running the 3000 dry and the 5000 wet would make for an excellent combination ... There really isn't enough said anymore/lately for this type of skimming regimen/method.

I believe it was Anthony Calfo who was one of the original and/or most instrumental proponents of this superior method !




Oh, and congratulations on getting your dream tank on its final resting place

 

[Dustin1300]

Do you think the 8000 wet and 3000 dry would be too much? Waiting on reply back from PA on availability of 8000. I'd love it if the 8000 could have one of the new DC pumps but doubt that'll happen.

 

[Newbie Aquarist]

Sounds like a good idea as I was going to do the same thing with my setup.

 

[SPotter]

what happened with that custom skimmer you were looking at?

 

[david00061]

Do you think the 8000 wet and 3000 dry would be too much? Waiting on reply back from PA on availability of 8000. I'd love it if the 8000 could have one of the new DC pumps but doubt that'll happen.

I think the 5000 plus 3000 will be fine. I'm running the 5000 external. I have a 2000 internal I plan on using when tank matures.

 

[Dustin1300]

what happened with that custom skimmer you were looking at?

Actually just got a response from Bill. Given that I'd have to buy a feed pump for other skimmers I may keep going this route. The lead time on the SRO unit is 4-8 weeks but Bill only has a 2 week lead time right now! It uses a Dart pump, I use 2 X Dart pumps for returns, and may be adding another 1-2 darts for closed loops. That'd mean if I kept one spare Dart around it'd be "universal".

 

[david00061]

I'm not a fan of over skimming

 

[Dustin1300]

I'm not a fan of over skimming

The skimmer is oversized for the system but would not mind adding an additional tank later down the road.:hmm2: The way I'd adjust it to not overskim is by changing how much water is fed to the skimmer.

 

[david00061]

I thought your system was all ready big enugh

 

[Dustin1300]

I thought your system was all ready big enugh

Next year we plan to do granite counter tops in kitchen and expand the island to make a second level with bar. I think a nice rimless tank would look really nice on it It's conveniently right above my fish room too!

 

[SPotter]

maybe the baby would like one in the nursery too?

 

[mike623]

Nice build.

 

[Dustin1300]

maybe the baby would like one in the nursery too?

I'll do it the same time your son gets his very own reef tank:lolspin:

 

[SPotter]

I'll do it the same time your son gets his very own reef tank:lolspin:

LOL....he's really pushing for it. I came home from work the other day and he was on the couch looking at the Dr. Foster's and Smith monthly catalogue that I get.

 

[Newbie Aquarist]

Its in the blood once you go reef.

 

[Dustin1300]

I had enough of it...Going back and forth, acting like the wife. Just got off phone with Bill and put order in for 50 lb Capacity Calcium Reactor and a six foot protein skimmer. :dance::dance::dance::dance::dance:

 

[Newbie Aquarist]

Sent from my iPhone using Siri and Tapatalk.

 

[Dustin1300]

Sent from my iPhone using Siri and Tapatalk.

Siri must have not understood you

 

[Dustin1300]

Sorry for lack of updates lately guys. Have been busy doing other things I'm moving closer to working back on the tank project after I get basement finished off. Next big projects is:

- Getting Carpet Put Down
- Trimming out Stairs
- Trimming out around DT
- Running Sub-Panel

I've made some good progress on finishing work in basement for past week or so:

My baby covered in partial plastic to keep fumes out of fish room. Today was last day of painting so can breath when I realize non of my acros are RTN/STNing. Been running LOTS of carbon, sucking in air from outside, and running lots of Poly-Filters.