New and wanna start a fish/easy reef

[Tstanfill]

Hi guys. I've always wanted to have a saltwater aquarium. Recently aquired a 46 gallon bowfront tank and stand. It's not drilled or reef Ready but I'd like to try and start with it. A few questions. First...some say it's too small and it'll be hard to keep. Is that the case? Is it possible to have a nice tank with some hob stuff and maybe move up to a bigger tank once I've learned and have some experience with saltwater. I also have gotten a ro/di filter for the water. What's the most affordable way to set that up to keep water for top off and changes? Thanks. ...looking forward to learning!

 

[Ahruk]

46 gallons is definitely not too small!!! I have a 14 gallon tank with tons of beautiful coral. While I have a diy petbottle auto-top-off (ATO) for my tank, I think if I had a tank that big I'd definitely consider investing in a regular ATO as mine doesn't hold very much and only lasts me a couple of days. Good luck on your build

 

[Harse Designs]

congrads,
yeah, the learning curve is much steeper with that size.
nothing wrong with h.o.b. gear just more maintenance and disciple.
water change and mix just get a 15 gal or 20 gal, brute plastic can, you dont need a fish room lol
stick it out when the going get tuff and you will be rewarded, in other words "patience"

 

[3dees]

my 120 gal. softie/lps tank is sumpless. no ato, HOB skimmer, two powerheads, and heater. 150 lbs. of live rock is my filter. a sump, ato, and all the extras are great and can make life easier, but are not a must. a 46 is a good starter tank. much easier than a 10.

 

[Oscaror]

Welcome to r2r I started with a 46 gallon BF too, it's IMO one of the best beginner sizes.