We recently had our 800 gallon tank delivered but we are in the planning stages of the complete setup. We want to convert our front study into our filtration room. We have spent lots of time reading build threads but there are so many options for everything!
We are looking for recommendations on an equipment list.
Brief overview:
Tank is a preowned AGE glass 96x42x48 tall, single overflow on back wall offset to right side of center. 3 holes drilled in overflow, and there are 5 holes drilled along the centerline of the tank for a closed loop setup.
We want to do fish only, and imagine it will be a high bioload as we love triggers and carnivorous fish.
We aren't in a huge rush to get it done, as we want to plan carefully and buy equipment as we can. We don't have a predetermined budget, but we do have two kids and have to make smart decisions with our purchases.
Basically we know we need to buy the following:
Sump- doesn't seem to be many commercially available products for a tank this size unless you go with a dreambox. Definitely need help in this area.
Skimmer- we just found what looks to be a "like new" bubble king 300 for $1250 on our local criaigslist and have requested more info. Suggestions in this area definitely needed.
Pump for closed loop. Obvious choice is Reeflo hammerhead but I've been trying to research all options. And is Oceans Motions the way to go ??
Return pump- lots of choices here and definitely an area I'm looking for advice.
Ro/di setup, holding and mixing tank, topoff tank, etc
Should we go with live rock or artificial inserts?
Will we need certain media reactors?
We have had saltwater tanks for the last 15 years but never larger than a 125 and they've all been very basic setups.
We are admitting that we aren't experts, but we're very patient and eager to learn.
We sincerely appreciate any input anyone might want to share!
Ricky & Courtney
We are looking for recommendations on an equipment list.
Brief overview:
Tank is a preowned AGE glass 96x42x48 tall, single overflow on back wall offset to right side of center. 3 holes drilled in overflow, and there are 5 holes drilled along the centerline of the tank for a closed loop setup.
We want to do fish only, and imagine it will be a high bioload as we love triggers and carnivorous fish.
We aren't in a huge rush to get it done, as we want to plan carefully and buy equipment as we can. We don't have a predetermined budget, but we do have two kids and have to make smart decisions with our purchases.
Basically we know we need to buy the following:
Sump- doesn't seem to be many commercially available products for a tank this size unless you go with a dreambox. Definitely need help in this area.
Skimmer- we just found what looks to be a "like new" bubble king 300 for $1250 on our local criaigslist and have requested more info. Suggestions in this area definitely needed.
Pump for closed loop. Obvious choice is Reeflo hammerhead but I've been trying to research all options. And is Oceans Motions the way to go ??
Return pump- lots of choices here and definitely an area I'm looking for advice.
Ro/di setup, holding and mixing tank, topoff tank, etc
Should we go with live rock or artificial inserts?
Will we need certain media reactors?
We have had saltwater tanks for the last 15 years but never larger than a 125 and they've all been very basic setups.
We are admitting that we aren't experts, but we're very patient and eager to learn.
We sincerely appreciate any input anyone might want to share!
Ricky & Courtney
