Starting 240 Gallon Reef Tank and I Need Some Help

[McCrary]

I've been out of the hobby for about 5 years and I'm building a 72Lx26Wx30H. I think I'm going to have AGE build the tank and a metal frame for me. The front pane will be Starfire glass and possibly the sides as well, depending on cost.

I really need some advice and pointers on stuff like where to put the supports, what's the best way to do returns and what should be in the sump. I've never had a tank this size and I'm going to be building it on this forum, hopefully with your help and input. I would like to avoid mistakes and learn from people who have done this before.

 

[McCrary]

Tomorrow I should have a quote from AGE. I also have the option to have DSA build it, but my local store said AGE was better to go through even if they were a bit more expensive. Anyone have experience with either company?

Also, how much power does a system like this use and how much would it cost to run a dedicated breaker?

 

[foxrazr]

If you have the space do an external bean animal overflow. I will be doing an internal with mine and going with 1.5" drains. External overflow will give you more room inside the tank.

Sump is personal. Some people like refugiums some don't. Some like filter socks some don't. If you are planning on running a skimmer plan sump space accordingly.

 

[McCrary]

Thanks, is an external bean animal overflow the overflow that is outside of the tank? I had them start with an internal overflow in the middle with two glass cross bars across the middle of the tank spaces every two feet. I like the idea of having no internal overflow, but I'm worried that the tank will stick out too far from the wall.

 

[foxrazr]

Yes, Its outside the tank. Most internal overflows take space inside the tank but give the tank a more streamlined appearance. External overflows take space outside the tank and if you don't have the space for them then go internal. Either way look into the bean animal overflow which should reduce splashing and noise.

 

[dave.m]

Or you could put the external overflow on one end of the tank using all dark glass at that end.

Dave.M