Hello all, new to the game

[tracks303]

I just recently bought a 75 gallon tank and it came with a 6 bulb t5 light system as well as an aqueon pro flex sump and a 950 gph return pump. I have it all plumbed up and currently cycling vinegar water through it before adding anything to it. From what I have read it is best to be safe then sorry so im taking all precautions that I can cause I see that it is adding up price wise and the wife is getting a little upset lol. anyways I will be building my stand this weekend cause the one that came with it looks like an old tv stand that doesn't look like it will really hold much weight. once I get the stand finished up I will be adding the live rock and sand to let it all cycle and give the bank a break. during that time should I be worried with setting up a refugium or protein skimmer? I have read a lot and they all seem to contradict each other by some saying yes and some saying no. my final plans are to have a couple clowns, a tang, maybe an angel and an anemone or 2 then from there im sure the reefing bug will hit me so I just wanna make sure im set for it in the beginning to make that transition easy as possible. well if my plan sounds good id like to hear feedback either good or bad as im new to the game and any help is appreciated.

 

[vikinglord13]

Yes get a refugium. At the very least it will help your CO2 levels stabilize if you use reverse lighting. This, in turn, will help your pH stabilize as well. You can also use it to house copepods/amphipods.

Skimmers are debatable; however, you should do your research before deciding not to use one. If you decide not to get one, I recommend you get an Algae Turf Scrubber.

An ATS combined with a good refugium will take care of most nutrient uptake as long as you don't overstock and don't overfeed.

 

[tracks303]

So a little update. After running the tank with water and vinegar mix I have drained it all out and got the fresh water in to rinse out. Tomorrow I will be building my new stand so I will get pics up either tomorrow or Sunday granted it'll be an empty tank. I got my rock today as well and the guy threw in a skimmer for 10 bucks so i have that soaking in vinegar mix now so I can clean it when I'm done with the stand. So all that is left is to get sand and water. What do you all recommend on sand bed? I am thinking of doing a 1 inch bed which will be around 60 pounds of sand. Let me know what you all think of my plans so far. Thanks for the advice as well.

 

[vikinglord13]

1 inch sounds good to me. Don't be surprised if that skimmer just doesn't work well. 10 bucks isn't much. If you can figure out the make and model, it's worth checking to see if it's even rated for a 75G tank.