What should I add to my new setup?

[razord]

So I'm upgrading my basic 55g setup with a HOB skimmer to a Waterbox 170 in a few weeks. I have new lights, a pump and skimmer. What else should I consider adding?

I've been in the hobby for years but this is the first time I'm owning s proper setup with a sump, etc. so much of this is new to me.

 

[RobZilla04]

If you have a sump, use an in water skimmer and not a HOB. The in water skimmers will perform much more efficiently and will likely not be undersized in the long run.

 

[mcgyvr]

ATO system?

 

[razord]

If you have a sump, use an in water skimmer and not a HOB. The in water skimmers will perform much more efficiently and will likely not be undersized in the long run.

Yes, sorry if that wasn't clear. I did buy a new sump for the new setup. Just describing current setup so you knew.

 

[razord]

ATO system?

Thanks! So this sump has the reservoir for it. What else do I need to buy for it to get where it needs to be? (Sorry for my ignorance).

 

[mcgyvr]

Thanks! So this sump has the reservoir for it. What else do I need to buy for it to get where it needs to be? (Sorry for my ignorance).

I haven't looked into what this waterbox is but an ATO system is typically composed of the following..
1-A reservoir for freshwater
2-A sensor/controller system to detect the water level
3-A pump to pump water from reservoir to return pump section..

Examples of ATO systems here..
https://www.bulkreefsupply.com/auto-top-off/auto-top-off-systems.html

 

[manateemark]

I don't know what you meant by a pump, but hopefully you meant return pump. You will probably also need/want a heater depending on your houses temperature and climate. Possibly a grow light for Chaetomorpha. You'll need some filter socks too. Possibly some moon lights if your regular lights don't already have them. You might also want to look into dosing phytoplankton if you're planning on going full SPS. Really it's going to depend on the style of tank you are wanting to do. Possibly a calcium reactor too if you're doing full SPS.