Aquageek's Reefer 250 Build

[Aquageek450]

Hey Guys,

I am in the process of setting up a new Red Sea Reefer 250 so I figured id create a build thread and document it. I got into reefing about 5 years ago and I built my current tank which is a standard 29gal display with a 20gal sump. The tanks has been running great all these years. Here are a few pictures of the current setup.



I plan to transfer the Nyos skimmer, reactor, ATO and MP10wqd to the reefer once I shut down this system.

Below is an equipment list for the build:
Tank: Red Sea Reefer 250
Lights: ATI Dimmable Sunpower 6x36w
Powerheads: 2- Ecotech Vortech MP10wQD
Pump: Sicce 3.0
Protein skimmer: Nyos Quantum 120
Sand: 40lbs Caribsea Special Reef Grade
Salt: Instant Ocean
Heater: 150w Eheim Jager
ATO: JBJ w/ Advanced Acrylic container

This brings us to the current state of the 250, I was very impressed with the quality of the stand and the beautiful craftsmanship of the tank. This also has the V3 sump with the removable section for a refugium if wanted. Once I got everything assembled, I added the sand and filled it up with fresh saltwater. Once you get the overflow dialed in, the tank is DEAD silent which is nice being as its in the living room. I went with the Sicce return pump due to running a smaller one on my other tank and it being pretty much silent, unfortunately the 3.0 has a noticeable hum that is somewhat annoying. If its still loud after break in I will swap it for a Vectra S1. Here are a couple pictures of the tank as of today. ( The HD bucket is just temporary)



I used a piece of raw shrimp to kick off the ammonia for the cycle, so I am patiently waiting for the ammonia levels to go down and for the cycle to continue.


In the meantime I am going to come up with a panel for under the cabinet to mount the Vortech controllers etc. to so everything is neat and organized and I still need to transfer/ get some live rock.

Ill keep this thread updated as the build progresses!

 

[Aquageek450]

Okay here is an update...

So the tank FINALLY cycled a little while back and I began the fun part...transferring stuff over from my 29gal.

But first I installed a VCA adapter to run dual Locline for my return, this made a huge difference and allowed me to direct the flow across the whole tank.


I also added the MP10WQD from my other to the reefer so now I have one on each side. And after a lot of debate I decided to try out a RedSea DIY Screen Top kit to save a little money compared to a custom acrylic top. Overall it has a good fit and a nice clean look. Although the netting is a pain to stretch and install.


Next, was to organize the sump area, I had cords everywhere and it was driving me crazy. I Also transferred over my NYOS 120 skimmer and my BRS mini reactor and replaced the return pump with a Vectra S1 so I could control the flow better. I mounted all the Ecotech controllers in the right upper hand corner for a clean look. Overall everything fit nice and it working as intended. I then made a box to hold my power strip. I also replaced the stock RedSea flow valve with a Spears gate valve for consistency (Don't even get me started on this topic....)


I then added some established live rock to the system and got the aquascape somewhat decent, im never really happy with the rock work until its covered in coral lol.


And here is a picture from a distance of the entire setup with the ATO resevoir to the left of the stand.


And here are a few other random pictures of the setup so far...




Oh, and one last picture of my pride and joy, I've had this WWC Bounce since it was about the size of a nickle and it easily covers a 5" Disk. Pictures dont do it justice. And the little JB on the right is growing into quite the looker with all the red : )

 

[Elijahh]

Nice setup, any updates?


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