75g Reef Build

kevin95695 · 02/07/2007, 11:23 AM

This is as much to figure out if I can link to a pic here on RC as it is to get feedback on my new 75g reef build project.

If this pic links correctly, you should see the tank after a preliminary cleaning in it's original configuration -- Before I started modding it.

Yes, that is a sock in my tank and I'm happy to see you.

Thanks to edsimmons for the photobucket help and MANY thanks to KMP for the inspiration and help lugging this tank to my house.

TANKENSTEIN PROTOREEF! IT'S ALIIIVE!

kevin95695 · 02/07/2007, 01:37 PM

Here is the next step in the process. I've removed the canopy lid and stand doors. I built a riser out of matching oak to stack on the canopy to allow room for reef lighting & gadgets. This is v1.0 of that mod. I think it will make the canopy look a little too tall in the end, so after I get my lighting set I'll know how much clearance I need and can 'rip' the riser down to the appropriate aesthetic height.

I have since removed the front board of the riser and attached it to the canopy lid. (So I can actually reach down into the tank). I'm waiting for some gas struts I got cheap on ebay before I paint the whole mess and reassemble.

xia · 02/07/2007, 01:47 PM

Looks like what I did to my old 140.

xia · 02/07/2007, 01:53 PM

Yeah I did have to get a step ladder and a long reach grabber after doing that. That's why my current tank is much more shallow.

You'll need at least 500 posts before you can change that label and 100 posts to customize your avatar pic.

kevin95695 · 02/07/2007, 10:46 PM

Thanks. Wha' happen' to your 'old' 140?

I didn't want to stand on a ladder and then only reach partially into the tank... So the front board of the riser will clamshell up and away with the lid. Fit isn't as tight, but with black paint: Hardly noticeable.

Struts came in today -- Way too strong. Can't possibly close the lid. Went down to truck parts place and traded for some 28lb struts. Hopefully the lid won't keep popping open. Any advice on how to orient the struts? Tonight I'm laying out the 12v 80mm computer fans I 'liberated' from old hardware and I'm scrounging for a 12v transformer to power them. I plan to put 3 fans in the lid pushing air up and out. Will solder them together w/inline fuse. So far I've only come up w/9v output t'former.

I also don't have a slab house, so soon I'm going to crawl under and see if I can wedge some concrete piers under the floor joists to protect against sag, crick, BANG, sploosh, drip, drip, drip.

Reefugee · 02/07/2007, 10:51 PM

Hey Kevin,

I have a some (30lbs?) dry base/shelf rock that I have been saving for the day when I build my 55G. But I really don't need the expense of another tank. If you like the base rock, you're welcome to them. You can start curing the rock now so that they become live rock.

Minh

kevin95695 · 02/07/2007, 11:02 PM

Minh, THANKS. I hope to see you either in carpool to the MARS meeting or the following day at BRIAN PRESTWOOD's place. I'll take you up on the offer. If there is any way I can return the favor, please let me know.

One odd thing I've discovered about this hobby (reefkeeping) is that there is a high degree of 'reciprocity'. If you have patience and an open mind, you can sooner or later trade for just about anything and most other hobbyists can't wait to help you get started.

I'm hooked.

KMP · 02/07/2007, 11:55 PM

kevin, that's pretty neat!

is the lower portion of the hood the color you are going to stain/paint?

dang, that mod-bug is coming alive. i need to sell my truck :-)

Reefugee · 02/08/2007, 12:40 AM

Kevin,

You live close enough to me that we can arrange a time for me either to drop it off or for you to pick it up.

Minh

kevin95695 · 02/08/2007, 01:05 AM

KMP! Reef inspirer!

Yep, if you mean the lower black section: Rust-oleum, 'American Accents', 'Canyon Black' in Satin finish. I'm trying to stick to that one finish so I can have a uniform look.

You were lookin' for an "Espresso" finish, right?

Minh: I have a 40g rubbermaid rollin' w/heater & maxi-jet, filled w/RO H20. I plan to mix up as SW shortly. My wife is out of town and the next couple of days/nights are mostly herding kids when I'm not at work. Even so - my kids are as much fish dorks as I am. Just name it. THANK YOU AGAIN!

KMP · 02/08/2007, 08:52 AM

that looks nice kevin. yes - as of lately i'm an espresso finish guy. when you get the rest of that stained up she's going to look great! i have to come by and see it pretty soon.

kevin95695 · 02/08/2007, 12:31 PM

I'm havin' a blast trying to DIY a bunch of stuff on the cheap. One thing I'll likely blow money on though is lighting. I'm lurking for a used 48" rig, but I'm toying with the idea of ordering a "you design it" light rig w/MH HQI + 50/50 actinics. Any advice?

KMP · 02/09/2007, 12:11 AM

i had a buddy in the truck club that picked up a 98 or so Ford Ranger for $100. he detailed it and from there on out every "mod" was a budget mod. $30 for stereo, $15 for floor mats, $10 for antenna, home built tonneau, etc. there's a lot of satisfaction and pride creating something on a budget.

48" lights, here's a few:

448watts (5.9 per gallon) - 36"

http://www.aquatraders.com/index.asp...ROD&ProdID=334

692watts (9.2 per gallon) - 48"

http://www.aquatraders.com/index.asp...ROD&ProdID=307

760watts (10.1 per gallon) - 48"

http://www.aquatraders.com/index.asp...ROD&ProdID=333

These guys are in Sacramento and can custom build what you want:

342watts - (4.5 per gallon)

http://cgi.ebay.com/Metal-Halide-pow...QQcmdZViewItem

442watts - (5.8per gallon)

http://cgi.ebay.com/Metal-Halide-pow...QQcmdZViewItem

All these lights have great prices compared to other lights with the same specs. I'd be curious to hear what folks say about Odyssea - they are half the price of other brands - makes me wonder why we don't read more about them.

Someting else to consider, you may want to go w/36" instead of 48" unless you've measured under the canopy to see if you have at least 49" clearance. Just a suggestion - we know how some folks have difficulty measuring :-)

kevin95695 · 02/10/2007, 02:18 AM

For status, see attached pic. Leaning to aquatraders per KMP's link... I know, I know: "You get what you pay for." But I've followed threads, etc. and it sounds to me like even if I have an 'off' experience, it sounds like they're using mostly off the shelf stuff that I could mod/upgrade and still come out 'in the money'.

This weekend I plan to 'rip' the top riser down so it's equal height to the bottom stock riser. Then I'll install spring struts from the RV dude in town for lift and keeping canopy open. Next would be to drill and install an exhaust fan array. Finally, sand and paint the whole assembly. When that's all finished I can begin to douche the tank/sump config, sand/paint the stand and begin to pre-assemble.

I have to figure out where to put the 29g (now FW, future reef QT), then move the 55g FW to where the 29g wuz, then when the 75g is ready (finally) begin install.

I have 48-3/4" to play in for the 75g light slot...

KMP · 02/10/2007, 10:53 AM

Kevins said: "I have 48-3/4" to play in for the 75g light slot..."

I once knew a guy that found a great deal on a fish thank. We were heading out one morning to pick it up - expecting to see his V10 Dodge pull up I was surprised to see he brought the Honda SUV instead. I kinda looked sideways at him, and he assured me he had enough space - even showed me a diagram where he measured it all out. Long story short - we got it all home in one trip although he doesn't dare to tell his wife how :-)

That said, if the light doesn't fit under that canopy, you can always cut a few holes in either side or cut the ends of the light - right

kevin95695 · 02/10/2007, 01:42 PM

ROTFLMAO.

KMP you know me.

Dave E · 02/10/2007, 02:43 PM

Kevin/KMP

I have the Aquatrader 48"Odyssea! 1.5 years old.

There is a fellow reefer that says (buy cheap buy twice) and that is what you get with this fixture IMO.

I have mine setting in my hood and a very large ballast box that has to set on top due to size and heat.The bulbs are 175 double ended 20k.the reflector is very cheap.the PCs mounted in the unit are at a angle so I lose some light out the front.

I will be changing my lighting soon and going with a retro kit that I can install in the top of my hood and going with a mogal type bulb.

Again I got what I paid for..

Dave

Reefugee · 02/11/2007, 12:59 AM

Dave,

I agree with you. When you buy cheap, you'll buy twice. But that *could* also be true for expensive things. ;-)

Minh

Quote:

Originally posted by Dave E

There is a fellow reefer that says (buy cheap buy twice) and that is what you get with this fixture IMO.

Dave E · 02/11/2007, 11:58 AM

Minh,

Your right cost is not always the factor!

Dave

kevin95695 · 02/11/2007, 01:19 PM

Oh man, I'm gonna have to buy a bag of 'Depends' if I get any more stoked about this build... The canopy is really coming together. Pics soon.

KMP · 02/11/2007, 08:32 PM

^ yes it is. looks great - because kevin is anal :-)

kevin95695 · 02/12/2007, 01:20 AM

Pics 'n' more!

Ahhh. The family that DIYs together, stays together (me'n'my eldest):

Makin' sure the 75g won't go "crick, boom, sploosh, drip, drip, drip". (Will have to go down 2nd time to install piers...)

My wife hates this guy, but he's never gone against me:

In fact, he's got my back. Makin' sure I don't slack on the QC:

I got yer 80mm variable speed ultra quiet Vantec case fans wired and hangin'! -- (ps: With the variable power supply from WMart set to 9v = BARELY audible):

Finally, the canopy/riser getup preassembled and ready to receive the tank after she's douched...

I know it's pic intense, but dare I say we all do or should have high speed connects by now???

Please kick in if you feel the need. This IS my 'blog and I am building per dynamic real time info. THANKS!!!

Reefugee · 02/12/2007, 01:36 AM

Hey Kevin,

Did you cut a hole in your floor so that you can reinforce the it? Sure looks like a lot of work! I live in a house on raised foundation. I ended up crawling underneath the house (12"-19") of clearance, and installed four screw jacks to give the floor extra support.

BTW - while you're under there - you might as well put in any wiring and 1/4" hose for an auto top device.

Minh

Quote:

Originally posted by kevin95695

Makin' sure the 75g won't go "crick, boom, sploosh, drip, drip, drip". (Will have to go down 2nd time to install piers...)

kevin95695 · 02/12/2007, 01:47 AM

Hey Minh! The hole was already there for crawl space access. Hadn't planned far enough ahead for any plumbing or wiring etc... What are you suggesting? Should I tie my RO in? Or what wiring? Being in CA I've always had a 'slab' house.

By-the-way: I may go w/KMP to the MARS meeting this Friday. Are you still going? Can we still work out something for your base rock?

--Thanks again.

Kevin

Reefugee · 02/12/2007, 01:55 AM

Kevin,

For an auto top off device, you will need a pair of wires (for the float switch sensors) and a water line (I used 1/4" hose that is used for icemaker). I have my RODI water fill a 44G Brute can. Then inside the can there is a Mag five that is connected to the waterline that tops off my sump. You may not be adding an auto topoff unit right now, but it's nice to have everything there for when you want to add it.

BTW - how are reinforcing the floor?

I plan on being at the meeting on Friday. I will bring the base rock.

Minh

02/07/2007, 11:23 AM	#1
kevin95695 Member of the Registry Join Date: Jan 2007 Location: Perimeter patrol. Posts: 3,469	75g Reef Build This is as much to figure out if I can link to a pic here on RC as it is to get feedback on my new 75g reef build project. If this pic links correctly, you should see the tank after a preliminary cleaning in it's original configuration -- Before I started modding it. Yes, that is a sock in my tank and I'm happy to see you. Thanks to edsimmons for the photobucket help and MANY thanks to KMP for the inspiration and help lugging this tank to my house. TANKENSTEIN PROTOREEF! IT'S ALIIIVE! __________________ You wouldn't believe it if I told you. Go put on the helmet. Did I say that out loud? Current Tank Info: Color chunks in a big water box.

02/07/2007, 01:37 PM	#2
kevin95695 Member of the Registry Join Date: Jan 2007 Location: Perimeter patrol. Posts: 3,469	Here is the next step in the process. I've removed the canopy lid and stand doors. I built a riser out of matching oak to stack on the canopy to allow room for reef lighting & gadgets. This is v1.0 of that mod. I think it will make the canopy look a little too tall in the end, so after I get my lighting set I'll know how much clearance I need and can 'rip' the riser down to the appropriate aesthetic height. I have since removed the front board of the riser and attached it to the canopy lid. (So I can actually reach down into the tank). I'm waiting for some gas struts I got cheap on ebay before I paint the whole mess and reassemble. __________________ You wouldn't believe it if I told you. Go put on the helmet. Did I say that out loud? Current Tank Info: Color chunks in a big water box.

02/07/2007, 10:46 PM	#5
kevin95695 Member of the Registry Join Date: Jan 2007 Location: Perimeter patrol. Posts: 3,469	Thanks. Wha' happen' to your 'old' 140? I didn't want to stand on a ladder and then only reach partially into the tank... So the front board of the riser will clamshell up and away with the lid. Fit isn't as tight, but with black paint: Hardly noticeable. Struts came in today -- Way too strong. Can't possibly close the lid. Went down to truck parts place and traded for some 28lb struts. Hopefully the lid won't keep popping open. Any advice on how to orient the struts? Tonight I'm laying out the 12v 80mm computer fans I 'liberated' from old hardware and I'm scrounging for a 12v transformer to power them. I plan to put 3 fans in the lid pushing air up and out. Will solder them together w/inline fuse. So far I've only come up w/9v output t'former. I also don't have a slab house, so soon I'm going to crawl under and see if I can wedge some concrete piers under the floor joists to protect against sag, crick, BANG, sploosh, drip, drip, drip. __________________ You wouldn't believe it if I told you. Go put on the helmet. Did I say that out loud? Current Tank Info: Color chunks in a big water box. Last edited by kevin95695; 02/07/2007 at 10:52 PM.

02/07/2007, 11:02 PM	#7
kevin95695 Member of the Registry Join Date: Jan 2007 Location: Perimeter patrol. Posts: 3,469	Minh, THANKS. I hope to see you either in carpool to the MARS meeting or the following day at BRIAN PRESTWOOD's place. I'll take you up on the offer. If there is any way I can return the favor, please let me know. One odd thing I've discovered about this hobby (reefkeeping) is that there is a high degree of 'reciprocity'. If you have patience and an open mind, you can sooner or later trade for just about anything and most other hobbyists can't wait to help you get started. I'm hooked. __________________ You wouldn't believe it if I told you. Go put on the helmet. Did I say that out loud? Current Tank Info: Color chunks in a big water box.

02/07/2007, 11:55 PM	#8
KMP Wag More; Bark Less Join Date: Apr 2006 Location: NorCal Posts: 3,602	kevin, that's pretty neat! is the lower portion of the hood the color you are going to stain/paint? dang, that mod-bug is coming alive. i need to sell my truck :-) __________________ Kenny Current Tank Info: 70g Shallow Reef [Home]; 15g Starfire Cube [Office]

02/07/2007, 01:47 PM	#3
xia Registered Member Join Date: Feb 2005 Location: Elk Grove, 95624 Posts: 995	Looks like what I did to my old 140.

02/07/2007, 01:53 PM	#4
xia Registered Member Join Date: Feb 2005 Location: Elk Grove, 95624 Posts: 995	Yeah I did have to get a step ladder and a long reach grabber after doing that. That's why my current tank is much more shallow. You'll need at least 500 posts before you can change that label and 100 posts to customize your avatar pic.

02/07/2007, 10:51 PM	#6
Reefugee Registered Member Join Date: Oct 2004 Location: Davis, CA Posts: 6,105	Hey Kevin, I have a some (30lbs?) dry base/shelf rock that I have been saving for the day when I build my 55G. But I really don't need the expense of another tank. If you like the base rock, you're welcome to them. You can start curing the rock now so that they become live rock. Minh

02/08/2007, 12:40 AM	#9
Reefugee Registered Member Join Date: Oct 2004 Location: Davis, CA Posts: 6,105	Kevin, You live close enough to me that we can arrange a time for me either to drop it off or for you to pick it up. Minh

02/08/2007, 01:05 AM	#10
kevin95695 Member of the Registry Join Date: Jan 2007 Location: Perimeter patrol. Posts: 3,469	KMP! Reef inspirer! Yep, if you mean the lower black section: Rust-oleum, 'American Accents', 'Canyon Black' in Satin finish. I'm trying to stick to that one finish so I can have a uniform look. You were lookin' for an "Espresso" finish, right? Minh: I have a 40g rubbermaid rollin' w/heater & maxi-jet, filled w/RO H20. I plan to mix up as SW shortly. My wife is out of town and the next couple of days/nights are mostly herding kids when I'm not at work. Even so - my kids are as much fish dorks as I am. Just name it. THANK YOU AGAIN! __________________ You wouldn't believe it if I told you. Go put on the helmet. Did I say that out loud? Current Tank Info: Color chunks in a big water box.

02/08/2007, 08:52 AM	#11
KMP Wag More; Bark Less Join Date: Apr 2006 Location: NorCal Posts: 3,602	that looks nice kevin. yes - as of lately i'm an espresso finish guy. when you get the rest of that stained up she's going to look great! i have to come by and see it pretty soon. __________________ Kenny Current Tank Info: 70g Shallow Reef [Home]; 15g Starfire Cube [Office]

02/08/2007, 12:31 PM	#12
kevin95695 Member of the Registry Join Date: Jan 2007 Location: Perimeter patrol. Posts: 3,469	I'm havin' a blast trying to DIY a bunch of stuff on the cheap. One thing I'll likely blow money on though is lighting. I'm lurking for a used 48" rig, but I'm toying with the idea of ordering a "you design it" light rig w/MH HQI + 50/50 actinics. Any advice? __________________ You wouldn't believe it if I told you. Go put on the helmet. Did I say that out loud? Current Tank Info: Color chunks in a big water box.

02/09/2007, 12:11 AM	#13
KMP Wag More; Bark Less Join Date: Apr 2006 Location: NorCal Posts: 3,602	i had a buddy in the truck club that picked up a 98 or so Ford Ranger for $100. he detailed it and from there on out every "mod" was a budget mod. $30 for stereo, $15 for floor mats, $10 for antenna, home built tonneau, etc. there's a lot of satisfaction and pride creating something on a budget. 48" lights, here's a few: 448watts (5.9 per gallon) - 36" http://www.aquatraders.com/index.asp...ROD&ProdID=334 692watts (9.2 per gallon) - 48" http://www.aquatraders.com/index.asp...ROD&ProdID=307 760watts (10.1 per gallon) - 48" http://www.aquatraders.com/index.asp...ROD&ProdID=333 These guys are in Sacramento and can custom build what you want: 342watts - (4.5 per gallon) http://cgi.ebay.com/Metal-Halide-pow...QQcmdZViewItem 442watts - (5.8per gallon) http://cgi.ebay.com/Metal-Halide-pow...QQcmdZViewItem All these lights have great prices compared to other lights with the same specs. I'd be curious to hear what folks say about Odyssea - they are half the price of other brands - makes me wonder why we don't read more about them. Someting else to consider, you may want to go w/36" instead of 48" unless you've measured under the canopy to see if you have at least 49" clearance. Just a suggestion - we know how some folks have difficulty measuring :-) __________________ Kenny Current Tank Info: 70g Shallow Reef [Home]; 15g Starfire Cube [Office]

02/10/2007, 02:18 AM	#14
kevin95695 Member of the Registry Join Date: Jan 2007 Location: Perimeter patrol. Posts: 3,469	For status, see attached pic. Leaning to aquatraders per KMP's link... I know, I know: "You get what you pay for." But I've followed threads, etc. and it sounds to me like even if I have an 'off' experience, it sounds like they're using mostly off the shelf stuff that I could mod/upgrade and still come out 'in the money'. This weekend I plan to 'rip' the top riser down so it's equal height to the bottom stock riser. Then I'll install spring struts from the RV dude in town for lift and keeping canopy open. Next would be to drill and install an exhaust fan array. Finally, sand and paint the whole assembly. When that's all finished I can begin to douche the tank/sump config, sand/paint the stand and begin to pre-assemble. I have to figure out where to put the 29g (now FW, future reef QT), then move the 55g FW to where the 29g wuz, then when the 75g is ready (finally) begin install. I have 48-3/4" to play in for the 75g light slot... __________________ You wouldn't believe it if I told you. Go put on the helmet. Did I say that out loud? Current Tank Info: Color chunks in a big water box.

02/10/2007, 10:53 AM	#15
KMP Wag More; Bark Less Join Date: Apr 2006 Location: NorCal Posts: 3,602	Kevins said: "I have 48-3/4" to play in for the 75g light slot..." I once knew a guy that found a great deal on a fish thank. We were heading out one morning to pick it up - expecting to see his V10 Dodge pull up I was surprised to see he brought the Honda SUV instead. I kinda looked sideways at him, and he assured me he had enough space - even showed me a diagram where he measured it all out. Long story short - we got it all home in one trip although he doesn't dare to tell his wife how :-) That said, if the light doesn't fit under that canopy, you can always cut a few holes in either side or cut the ends of the light - right

02/10/2007, 01:42 PM	#16
kevin95695 Member of the Registry Join Date: Jan 2007 Location: Perimeter patrol. Posts: 3,469	ROTFLMAO. KMP you know me. __________________ You wouldn't believe it if I told you. Go put on the helmet. Did I say that out loud? Current Tank Info: Color chunks in a big water box.

02/10/2007, 02:43 PM	#17
Dave E Registered Member Join Date: Jan 2003 Location: Elk Grove, CA 95758 Posts: 150	Kevin/KMP I have the Aquatrader 48"Odyssea! 1.5 years old. There is a fellow reefer that says (buy cheap buy twice) and that is what you get with this fixture IMO. I have mine setting in my hood and a very large ballast box that has to set on top due to size and heat.The bulbs are 175 double ended 20k.the reflector is very cheap.the PCs mounted in the unit are at a angle so I lose some light out the front. I will be changing my lighting soon and going with a retro kit that I can install in the top of my hood and going with a mogal type bulb. Again I got what I paid for.. Dave Last edited by Dave E; 02/10/2007 at 02:56 PM.

02/11/2007, 11:58 AM	#19
Dave E Registered Member Join Date: Jan 2003 Location: Elk Grove, CA 95758 Posts: 150	Minh, Your right cost is not always the factor! Dave

02/11/2007, 01:19 PM	#20
kevin95695 Member of the Registry Join Date: Jan 2007 Location: Perimeter patrol. Posts: 3,469	Oh man, I'm gonna have to buy a bag of 'Depends' if I get any more stoked about this build... The canopy is really coming together. Pics soon. __________________ You wouldn't believe it if I told you. Go put on the helmet. Did I say that out loud? Current Tank Info: Color chunks in a big water box.

02/11/2007, 08:32 PM	#21
KMP Wag More; Bark Less Join Date: Apr 2006 Location: NorCal Posts: 3,602	^ yes it is. looks great - because kevin is anal :-) __________________ Kenny Current Tank Info: 70g Shallow Reef [Home]; 15g Starfire Cube [Office]

02/12/2007, 01:20 AM	#22
kevin95695 Member of the Registry Join Date: Jan 2007 Location: Perimeter patrol. Posts: 3,469	Pics 'n' more! Ahhh. The family that DIYs together, stays together (me'n'my eldest): Makin' sure the 75g won't go "crick, boom, sploosh, drip, drip, drip". (Will have to go down 2nd time to install piers...) My wife hates this guy, but he's never gone against me: In fact, he's got my back. Makin' sure I don't slack on the QC: I got yer 80mm variable speed ultra quiet Vantec case fans wired and hangin'! -- (ps: With the variable power supply from WMart set to 9v = BARELY audible): Finally, the canopy/riser getup preassembled and ready to receive the tank after she's douched... I know it's pic intense, but dare I say we all do or should have high speed connects by now??? Please kick in if you feel the need. This IS my 'blog and I am building per dynamic real time info. THANKS!!! __________________ You wouldn't believe it if I told you. Go put on the helmet. Did I say that out loud? Current Tank Info: Color chunks in a big water box. Last edited by kevin95695; 02/12/2007 at 01:42 AM.

02/12/2007, 01:47 AM	#24
kevin95695 Member of the Registry Join Date: Jan 2007 Location: Perimeter patrol. Posts: 3,469	Hey Minh! The hole was already there for crawl space access. Hadn't planned far enough ahead for any plumbing or wiring etc... What are you suggesting? Should I tie my RO in? Or what wiring? Being in CA I've always had a 'slab' house. By-the-way: I may go w/KMP to the MARS meeting this Friday. Are you still going? Can we still work out something for your base rock? --Thanks again. Kevin __________________ You wouldn't believe it if I told you. Go put on the helmet. Did I say that out loud? Current Tank Info: Color chunks in a big water box.

02/12/2007, 01:55 AM	#25
Reefugee Registered Member Join Date: Oct 2004 Location: Davis, CA Posts: 6,105	Kevin, For an auto top off device, you will need a pair of wires (for the float switch sensors) and a water line (I used 1/4" hose that is used for icemaker). I have my RODI water fill a 44G Brute can. Then inside the can there is a Mag five that is connected to the waterline that tops off my sump. You may not be adding an auto topoff unit right now, but it's nice to have everything there for when you want to add it. BTW - how are reinforcing the floor? I plan on being at the meeting on Friday. I will bring the base rock. Minh