refugium

[corbett_n]

So it seems HOB refugiums are fairly cheap. Am I correct saying all I need besides the refugium is some sand, macro algae, and a return pump. If this is true, then can I replace it my HOB aquaclear 300 filter with a HOB refugium, and would the refugium be better than a HOB Aquaclear 300 at controlling nitrates.

 

[mg426]

If you have enough LR the Power filter is not really needed, 1 lb per gallon does the trick.Also a Refugium is most likely a very good idea.

 

[zoomfish1]

If you don't keep the filter clean in your aquaclear, it will add nitrates. A refugum is definately better in controlling trates.
mg426 is correct in that you don't need the hob filter if you have enough liverock and flow. The liverock is your filter system. With 1 - 1 1/2 lbs per gallon, your system will have all the filtering capacity it needs.

In addition to what you listed above for the fuge, you will also need a light source for the macro to grow. It is very photosynthetic. You can get a clip on fixture with a spiral flourescent bulb, one rated at 6500K. That would be sufficient.

 

[corbett_n]

I would like to even build my own sump, but it seems there is no way to get around the HOB overflow box, which is expensive for what it is. Are there any alternatives

 

[zoomfish1]

You can always drill the tank. Go to the DIY forum, there are threads there that can guide you thru it. If you need to do a search, use this:

http://reefcentral.com/search.php?menu=11.

If you're not too handy, you could probably find a reef club near you that would have someone who could drill it for you.