20 gal
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Fish Think Pink
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Welcome! Glad you joined.
Post #22 in this thread has suggested list but why I keep this thread around is its budget focus.
https://www.reef2reef.com/threads/46g-bowfront-sumpless-mixed-reef.829167/page-2
If you watch local FB, craigslist, etc sites for someone selling whole setup to leave hobby (divorce, moving long distance, etc) then you might score great used setup and mentor able to help you get started.
Have you considered starting your build thread? I found its a great place to document my tank's evolution for myself. I started tank first then joined, so I'm still finding myself going back collecting pictures & updating historically as well as current state. Once you create your first post in your thread and link it to your account, they will give you build badge (look left, under my ID). It is never too early!
This might help you find people local to you:
https://www.reef2reef.com/forums/local-reef-club-discussion.516/
This is a good reference book type online article I still review:
https://www.reef2reef.com/ams/the-supreme-guide-to-setting-up-a-saltwater-reef-aquarium.84/
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Kristopher Conlin
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Welcome to Reef2Reef!!
The main things for a new setup are the tank itself, reef rock, a heater and powerheads for flow. You I'll also need a powder salt mix a source of pure water and a way to measure the salinity of your mixed saltwater. You can buy filtered water but most saltwater aquarium owners end up getting a reverse osmosis filter to make their own. If you want to keep coral you will need a light that has the proper spectrum as well.
There is a whole ton more equipment you can add but that's the essentials at least haha.
I would recommend watching this series if you have the time it covers a lot!
The main things for a new setup are the tank itself, reef rock, a heater and powerheads for flow. You I'll also need a powder salt mix a source of pure water and a way to measure the salinity of your mixed saltwater. You can buy filtered water but most saltwater aquarium owners end up getting a reverse osmosis filter to make their own. If you want to keep coral you will need a light that has the proper spectrum as well.
There is a whole ton more equipment you can add but that's the essentials at least haha.
I would recommend watching this series if you have the time it covers a lot!
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vetteguy53081
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TokenReefer
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Welcome to R2R! Great suggestions above. Take your time and ask lots of questions. Go to your local saltwater fish stores and look around get to know them a little and look for local clubs.
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kevgib67
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Welcome, glad you are here! I second the suggestion to watch the BRS 52 weeks of reefing. Good luck!
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Reefer Matt
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Rmckoy
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First and most important . Welcome to r2r
Being a 20 gal system did you have a idea of what you wanted in terms of fish or corals as a end goal ?
As for equipment and also depends on what you plan on adding .
live rocks or dry rocks are needed but the choice is yours which one you decide to go with .
next I would purchase 2 wave makers , heater , quality test kits ( salifert is great and affordable )
I would strongly advise against buying costly premixed water and mix your
Salt mix and a rodi system
Once you add the water , rocks and if you want sand bottom . Add a source of ammonia to get the nitrogen cycle Started which can take a up to a few weeks .
Research different methods to find one best suited for you .
last bit of advise for now .
take your time . Slow and steady wins the race , nothing good happens fast . And enjoy as it can be a very rewarding hobby
feel free to ask questions and to post pictures along your journey .
Being a 20 gal system did you have a idea of what you wanted in terms of fish or corals as a end goal ?
As for equipment and also depends on what you plan on adding .
live rocks or dry rocks are needed but the choice is yours which one you decide to go with .
next I would purchase 2 wave makers , heater , quality test kits ( salifert is great and affordable )
I would strongly advise against buying costly premixed water and mix your
Salt mix and a rodi system
Once you add the water , rocks and if you want sand bottom . Add a source of ammonia to get the nitrogen cycle Started which can take a up to a few weeks .
Research different methods to find one best suited for you .
last bit of advise for now .
take your time . Slow and steady wins the race , nothing good happens fast . And enjoy as it can be a very rewarding hobby
feel free to ask questions and to post pictures along your journey .
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