Help choosing lighting and a filter

[Ghost25]

Hey, I'm new here. Just picked up a tank and I'm trying to figure out what light and filter to buy. I'm trying to keep it cheap, I don't mind buying used and I don't need all the bells and whistles.

My tank is a 30 gallon and measures 36" x16" x 12". My understanding is that LEDs are superior to T5 is this correct? If so does anyone have recommendations on a LED fixture? I realize that PAR and lumens are more important than appearance but I would really prefer a light with a nice bright white rather than the really blue lights / longwave UV type lighting that I have seen on some tanks. I prefer the look of a crisp white lit tank to a tank that looks like a laser tag arena.

I'm also looking for a cheap but reliable hang on back filter for activated carbon and GFO. I saw someone recommended this one but I'd prefer something a little closer to the $20 range, any ideas?

Also looking for a powerhead. Would one of these 425s be sufficient? http://www.petsolutions.com/C/Submersible-Water-Pumps/I/Koralia-Evolution-Pumps.aspx?CAWELAID=520009670000365917&CAGPSPN=pla&catargetid=520009670000047345&cadevice=c&gclid=CjwKEAjwi9K4BRCQzq7d1c6A_XASJABueAO2jaouFpe-jKwGREe2XLTMIO8dFFgWahLbvYG65PVpSBoCAivw_wcB

Thanks.

 

[cloak]

FWIW, for that size tank this is what I would probably go with.

http://www.bulkreefsupply.com/a160we-controllable-led-aquarium-light.html

The spread might not cover the length of the tank, but you can always put the more light demanding corals in the center of the tank and then work your way out. You can also adjust the lighting to your preference.

http://www.aquacave.com/hagen-aquaclear-30-150-power-filter.html

Definitely go with an Aquaclear model. These things are very efficient and they last forever.

http://www.bulkreefsupply.com/hydor-koralia-evolution.html

A 425 won't be enough IMO. You might want to go with two 850's and place them up top at opposite ends of the tank facing each other. The center of the tank will be pretty chaotic, while the sides will be relatively calm.

Pretty much all of the things listed above can be found used if you look. If you have a club in your area, this would be a good place to start. GL.

 

[Ghost25]

Thanks for the input. That light is out of my budget and also seems like a spot light more than a full tank light. I'm looking more at something like this or this. Anyone have experince with this kind of thing? I realize they are cheap Chinese lights but the reviews seem pretty positive.

Really? 2x 850? That sounds like a lot.

 

[EGS25]

I bought a Mars Aqua fixture for my 40b, not set up yet but love the light. Here is a thread about them: http://www.reefcentral.com/forums/showthread.php?t=2474870

Fully customizable with a separate blue/white channel which might be a good option for what you're looking for.

 

[Ghost25]

I bought a Mars Aqua fixture for my 40b, not set up yet but love the light. Here is a thread about them: http://www.reefcentral.com/forums/showthread.php?t=2474870

Fully customizable with a separate blue/white channel which might be a good option for what you're looking for.

Hmm looks nice, do you think I need two or could I get away with just one for a tank 36" long?

 

[EGS25]

I did the 300W option which is perfect for a tank 36" long as the unit itself is around 30". Ive seen the smaller 165W units on a 40b and you need two of them to get adequate coverage IMO

 

[WiDataTech]

There is a benefit to having two, though. If something should ever happen to one of them, you at least have some light. If something happens to your single light, your left in the dark while scrambling for some sort of light that will work. Maybe not such an issue if you're planning fish only.