Really wanting to start up again

[hagar101]

Hello everyone! Its been a while

I'm considering starting up again, but this time with corals, I have about a 2-4k spending limit at this time. I already have a tank, UV Sterilzer, and the basic needed things. What are some things I would need for corals? I think I would start with LPS and then move onto SPS after having some experience. I'm probably going to do a wetsump setup. Any advise would be wonderful!

Thanks!

[dclownd]

Lights your gonna need lights!

[hagar101]

Of course! Looking at some LED's! I think I have a good idea with the basic filtration, What would you recommend powerhead wise? I know i need those.

[Reefmedic79]

I suggest selling the UV sterilizer, IMO, they are not needed. Don't know what a "wet sump set-up" is, but if you meant a wet-dry system, for go it completely and get another tank that will fit under your display and build a standard sump out of it.

Without knowing what size tank this is for, it hard to suggest specifics.

1st priority get and RO/DI filter for your water.

Your going to need filtration. This can be accomplished with +/- a pound of rock per gallon, and a quality skimmer. You also may want to consider a carbon and or GFO reactors for chemical filtrationm but these won't be needed for some time.

Circulation via a return pump and a few powerheads.

Lastly high output lighting to maintain the corals. This will likley take up the bulk of your budget. Metal Halides, T-5 fluorescent and LED's or a combination of them would be sufficient.

[hagar101]

Yeah, Sorry about that. That's what I meant (It's been 2 years, my bad ). Already have a 25 gallon tank sitting around that fits underneath. Its a 75 Gallon 4x4x2, What power rating for the powerheads, as well as the return? Lastly, which lighting would you recommend? I've looked a bit into the LED's, Looks like a nice route for low matenince/Long term cost. Are there pros and cons for Metal Halides and T-5's which the LED's can't match?

Thank you for the Reply, extremely helpful

[modder man]

Like reef medic said its hard to say much without knowing the size of the tank. But I would look into vortechs for power heads and I would look at reefbreeders LED's

[hagar101]

Its a 75 gallon tank, And thank you for the brand references! With the vortech's, Is there a certain model I should be looking at?

[Reefmedic79]

2 Vortech MP40's would be sufficient for a 75.

The Pro's for LED's IMO are the run cooler, not adding a significant amount of heat to the tank. They run longer, estimates of 10-15 years if run properly, and they draw less power.

MH's (approx. $60ea.) are hot, and they and T-5's ($30-40ea.)bulbs need to be replaced every 9-12 months. Draw more power.

[SpartaReef]

This might help... I made some mistakes you'll want to avoid
http://www.reefcentral.com/forums/sh....php?t=2277474

[hagar101]

Oh, great! Thank you. And the comparison with LED's just makes me feel even more confident buying a set. Clearly looks like it would pay off!

[SpartaReef]

Jebao wp's are less expensive than vortechs... Which will allow you to spend more on corals :-)

[SpartaReef]

Reef breeders LED has the best customer service

[hagar101]

Thanks Sparta for all of the useful information! Reading your thread... I did the same thing about 2 years ago, it was a nightmare. haha

[hagar101]

Also, Would a wooden stand be able to withstand the weight? It kinda has me worrying.

[Reefmedic79]

If it was a stand built for the tank it should be fine. Many of us build or have stands built for us are usually over built for peace of mind.

[hagar101]

So it should be fine? sounds a bit creaky, not liking it haha. Wherever i could save money would be great. So if its not necessary, i dont need it =)

[snow80130]

I've been looking at LEDs because I have heat problem. Found some highly rated ones on amazon at third of cost. Just an FYI

[hagar101]

Do you happen to have a Link or brand name? Might look into it.