1st Time Reef Tank Equipment Setup Help

Chris H Reef · Jan 16, 2024

Hey All,

I am planning my first reef tank and want to know what everyone thinks about the equipment that I am planning on using. I don't have a full fish list planned out yet but definitely want a Tang (I think yellow) and any beginner corals along with many more fish. Anyway here is the list below, let me know your thoughts!

Tank: 75 Gallons
Sump Tank: 20 Gallons
Heater: (2) Finnex 150W
- Amazon product ASIN B002TDNMGA
Temperature Controller: Inkbird ITC-308S Temp Controller
- Amazon product ASIN B07R195CQF
Light: (2) NICREW 150W LED Reef Light
- Amazon product ASIN B08HVJJLX3
Flow Pump: (2) Hydor 60701150 Koralia
- Amazon product ASIN B00ZXAV5GA
75 LBS Dry Rock
- https://www.bulkreefsupply.com/af-rock-mixed-shapes-aquaforest.html
45 LBS Live Sand
- https://www.bulkreefsupply.com/fiji-pink-arag-alive-live-reef-sand.html
RO System: 4 Stage 75GPD RO/DI
- https://www.bulkreefsupply.com/75gpd-4-stage-value-ro-di-system-bulk-reef-supply.html
TDS Meter
- Amazon product ASIN B079DN9DRS
Salt
- https://www.bulkreefsupply.com/pro-reef-salt-tropic-marin.html
Refractometer
- Amazon product ASIN B018LRO1SU
Protein Skimmer: Reef Octopus Classic 110INT
- https://www.bulkreefsupply.com/reef-octopus-nwb110-4-pinwheel-in-sump-protein-skimmer.html
Auto Top Off: Prism Auto Top Off
- https://www.bulkreefsupply.com/prism-auto-top-off-reefbreeders-1.html

Science/G · Jan 16, 2024

Looks like a great plan. Spend the extra money and buy live rock. Others will tell you the same thing. From my 30 years as a reefer, this is the best advice I can give you. FWIW

Devaji · Jan 16, 2024

if your stand has the space go for a 40br for the sump. so much more room to work with, you will thanks me later!

at least seed your dry rock with some rubble helps with biodiversity. I have set up tanks both ways overs the years. both ( LR vs dry rock) have there pros and cons.
but in general the more LR one has in the tank the easier it is.

good luck ans have fun!