Starting Aquarium Question

[j3jmchoi]

I just started a Saltwater Aquarium and I really excited. I already have the filter (Fluval 306), heater, and wave maker (KORALIA 425 gph), and live rock in my 45 gallon tank. I had a few questions however.
Do I need a protein skimmer?
Do I need to do water changes even though I only have live rock?
Once I have fish and Invertebrate, how often should I change my water?
After I siphon out the water should I just add tap water then add salt and conditioner, or create the water first then add it?
Are there any other equipment I should purchase? (Other than lights because I already have and LED and Im planning to get better lights when I add coral)
And should I have cleaned my live rock so I can avoid pests and hitchhikers?
Thanks!

 

[Butch01]

There's a pinned thread at the top of this forum with hundreds of FAQs exactly like the ones you asked...

 

[AK707]

i would not use tap water, PERIOD. Get a RODI unit or buy water from LFS
mix water with salt then add to tank
Skimmer not necessary but it helps
Do 10-20% water changes weekly

 

[scooters reef]

That's a LOT of questions, with even more answers. I'd start with all the stickies and then ask for clarification. Don't rush things and you'll likely be hooked forever!! Rush it, fail, and end up being one who says "Salt water is just not worth it"

There are few easy answers to your questions and all should be based on a more detailed educated decision. Skimmer vs skimmerless for example, even though most of us would advise to have one. However, no, you can't just add tap water and then dump in some salt Even if willing to risk using tap water you have to mix it first.

Welcome to Reef Central though!! You'll have enough to read to keep you busy for a long time!!!

 

[RobZilla04]

I just started a Saltwater Aquarium and I really excited. I already have the filter (Fluval 306), heater, and wave maker (KORALIA 425 gph), and live rock in my 45 gallon tank. I had a few questions however.
Do I need a protein skimmer? Not necessarily. Depending on your test results as you go you (high nitrates or excessive algae) can make that determination later.
Do I need to do water changes even though I only have live rock? Yes, but again as w/ your first question you'll base the frequency on test results. Excessive nutrients = more frequent water changes. A protein skimmer decreases the need for as frequent water changes.
Once I have fish and Invertebrate, how often should I change my water? A good rule of thumb when getting started is once weekly. Get a test kit; pH, Ammonia, Nitrite, Nitrate, Phosphate will work for now. Once coral you'll want kH, Calcium, and Magnesium.
After I siphon out the water should I just add tap water then add salt and conditioner, or create the water first then add it? NO TAP WATER. Local fish store prepared salt water or the better option is to purchase an RODI filter. For $100 that baby will pay for itself in the first 6 months. Prepare the water with matching salinity to your tank and then add as the old water is removed.
Are there any other equipment I should purchase? (Other than lights because I already have and LED and Im planning to get better lights when I add coral)A canister filter will limit what you can add later. Consider a sump.
And should I have cleaned my live rock so I can avoid pests and hitchhikers?
Thanks! It's too late now but you can always keep an eye out and check back w/ pix if you find something.

Welcome and happy reefing.