Advice? About to order my first custom tank! [180 Starphire]

[_Danny]

I'm about to purchase/order a custom tank from OceansByDesign.com (local to me) and need input. I don't want to end up regretting having it a certain way or not having implemented something in the design.

• 180 gallon 72x24x25" (I already spent a large amount of money on a custom stand and canopy so need to stick with 72x24)
• Starphire Glass on the Front and Sides, all glass 1/2"
• Black silicone, no inside beads/seams
• Euro-braced, 3" top, 4" bottom
• 24" external ghost overflow
• BeanAnimal drains using 1.5" pvc bulkheads in overflow
• Two 3/4" bulkheads in back glass in top corners for returns

Should I use 1.25" drains instead?
More than two returns?
I'm assuming a closed loop in this size of tank would be overkill for flow if I'm already using two EcoTech MP40's and an EcoTech Vectra M1 return pump.
Should I use four drain holes in the overflow for a 2nd emergency?

Basically, is there anything I should consider regarding the design before making a hefty investment that will likely be around for a long time to come?

 

[frankabagnale]

I think it sounds good. I'd stick with the three 1.5" drains. 4 is way overkill in my opinion. I'd say two returns is perfect as well.

 

[_Danny]

Thanks for the reassurance. I've realized I'm kinda overthinking it, but I suppose I'd rather be overly scrutinous about the design of the tank rather than be annoyed that I didn't think about ____ when I had the tank built.

Had another phone conversation with OceansByDesign today and upon reviewing the 3d CAD drawings of the tank tomorrow evening I'll be giving the OK and then hurry up and wait for the completed tank to be ready for pickup.

Actually also considering a lighting setup from them as well: http://www.crystalreefaquatics.com

 

[ace_92101]

With that foot print why not go with 210 or 220?

 

[ezerasurfr]

I would stick with the 1.5 drains. Two returns is sufficient (my 180 is peninsula style, and two is plenty.)

And if you go deeper like ace recommended, just be sure you spec lighting which can penetrate that deep. But I find the 25" is just fine.

 

[Hal]

As extra security against a flood, I added a small hole in the euro-brace where I installed a float switch tied to my return pump. If the water in my tank rises enough to trigger the float switch it shuts off the return pump.

A bean overflow design should be enough to prevent this type of thing, since it has two emergency drains, but I like the extra security.

If you think you might run sea-swirls you can also drill holes in the euro-bracing for them.

 

[TheAquatect]

I'm about to purchase/order a custom tank from OceansByDesign.com (local to me) and need input. I don't want to end up regretting having it a certain way or not having implemented something in the design.

• 180 gallon 72x24x25" (I already spent a large amount of money on a custom stand and canopy so need to stick with 72x24)
• Starphire Glass on the Front and Sides, all glass 1/2"
• Black silicone, no inside beads/seams
• Euro-braced, 3" top, 4" bottom
• 24" external ghost overflow
• BeanAnimal drains using 1.5" pvc bulkheads in overflow
• Two 3/4" bulkheads in back glass in top corners for returns

Should I use 1.25" drains instead?
More than two returns?
I'm assuming a closed loop in this size of tank would be overkill for flow if I'm already using two EcoTech MP40's and an EcoTech Vectra M1 return pump.
Should I use four drain holes in the overflow for a 2nd emergency?

Basically, is there anything I should consider regarding the design before making a hefty investment that will likely be around for a long time to come?

Your specs are similar to mine, except for tank size. Here is what I came up with..

Stick with 1.5" bean animal. No need for the 4th drain, its already redundant with the open channel and emergency drain. 1.25" just restricts future flow capability. You can always dial the siphon back via the valve.

For returns, I think it depends on your design but I would drill for 1" bulkheads and choke down to 3/4". Again, thinking to the future. As for the number of returns, I kept it simple with 2. I see turnover and flow as separate aspects so I have 2500+ gallons of turnover with the bean-animal but my flow is handles via gyre and sea swirls.

Just some food for thought on the starfire option, I struggled with this. I asked around quite a bit, and was surprised to get feedback that starfire was not worth it! Even from folks with it! More surprising, even my tank builder said it was not worth it! It is, of course, a personal preference but it can be money better spent on other equipment/livestock.

In the end, you have a solid plan no matter what and I'm sure its going to be an awesome tank! Good luck!