Hello,
I am new to the forum. It has been about 18 years since I was active with building and maintaining aquariums. I have only done one reef tank in my life, so I am by all means a beginner. I have decided after a few years of deliberation that I would like to start a reef tank. So after doing much online research and on these forums, I have decided I like the Red Sea tanks (130D an M250). The question is which one. I know that the smaller tanks can have small problems turn into bigger problems faster so some say they ar less maintenance. However, I am trying to determine if I really want to spend the money on a larger reef. It is not the upfront cost that worries me as much as the annual upkeep cost associated with it. I really do not want to end up spending $1-2k or more a year fixing issues. So I am asking for some honest advice on what to expect in annual costs to upkeep the tank. I am the type of person who takes care of things so I do not intend in neglecting the tank and causing more problems that way. And is the 65 gal much more maintenance than the 34 gallon? Also, the local aquarium store has been very helpful and knowledgeable but it is nice to get someone's opinion who isn't trying to sell me something. Are there online places that are good to use for purchases vs. local stores that would save money. I ask this especially of the livestock. The fish and coral are very expensive at the local store and since I am new, I thought I would ask if anyone purchases this stuff online instead.
Thanks in advance!
I am new to the forum. It has been about 18 years since I was active with building and maintaining aquariums. I have only done one reef tank in my life, so I am by all means a beginner. I have decided after a few years of deliberation that I would like to start a reef tank. So after doing much online research and on these forums, I have decided I like the Red Sea tanks (130D an M250). The question is which one. I know that the smaller tanks can have small problems turn into bigger problems faster so some say they ar less maintenance. However, I am trying to determine if I really want to spend the money on a larger reef. It is not the upfront cost that worries me as much as the annual upkeep cost associated with it. I really do not want to end up spending $1-2k or more a year fixing issues. So I am asking for some honest advice on what to expect in annual costs to upkeep the tank. I am the type of person who takes care of things so I do not intend in neglecting the tank and causing more problems that way. And is the 65 gal much more maintenance than the 34 gallon? Also, the local aquarium store has been very helpful and knowledgeable but it is nice to get someone's opinion who isn't trying to sell me something. Are there online places that are good to use for purchases vs. local stores that would save money. I ask this especially of the livestock. The fish and coral are very expensive at the local store and since I am new, I thought I would ask if anyone purchases this stuff online instead.
Thanks in advance!
