Well after a long wait, I am finally going to start this build. It is a Planet 450g, 96x36x30, full starfire, eurobraced with pvc bottom. It has 2 1.5in drains and two 1in returns. It also has a closed loop system in the bottom. I am building a 96x24 sump that will be plumbed into the basement fish room below. That room will have another 120g and 50g frag tank.
I still have a few things I need to figure out and would love to hear others experiences and opinions.
-Do I plumb the 114w Uv sterilizer into the return from the basement or into the closed loop system under the tank.
-what return pumps to use for 14-16ft head pressure? One Abyzz$$$ or red dragon (out of stock almost everywhere) running both 1.5" returns, two iwaki or two cheaper jebao dcp20000 and a couple extra on hand for the inevitable failure (if they will truly handle that head pressure). Due to the upfront cost I would prefer to use the jebao and upgrade after about 6 months to the abyzz. I would just use the jebao for salt mix and water changes.
-what pump for the closed loop 1" intake and return
-I currently have 2mp60s, 2pm40s and the closed loop. I assume this will be enough for a mixed reef?
-I have to move this glass beast from the garage, up two steps and through the front door. Hydraulic carts, a bunch of muscle and suction cups? Is this the best option?
Those of you that also have large systems...what would you change if you could start over. Things I should be aware of and prepared for? My 120g was setup in 8hrs because I had to move suddenly. I have never been happy with the scape and how messy the tank is. I added a pic of it as well.
I look forward to everyone's input and assistance, as this is quickly becoming a daunting task. My father has affectionately nicknamed it "Ryan's war of attrition"
I still have a few things I need to figure out and would love to hear others experiences and opinions.
-Do I plumb the 114w Uv sterilizer into the return from the basement or into the closed loop system under the tank.
-what return pumps to use for 14-16ft head pressure? One Abyzz$$$ or red dragon (out of stock almost everywhere) running both 1.5" returns, two iwaki or two cheaper jebao dcp20000 and a couple extra on hand for the inevitable failure (if they will truly handle that head pressure). Due to the upfront cost I would prefer to use the jebao and upgrade after about 6 months to the abyzz. I would just use the jebao for salt mix and water changes.
-what pump for the closed loop 1" intake and return
-I currently have 2mp60s, 2pm40s and the closed loop. I assume this will be enough for a mixed reef?
-I have to move this glass beast from the garage, up two steps and through the front door. Hydraulic carts, a bunch of muscle and suction cups? Is this the best option?
Those of you that also have large systems...what would you change if you could start over. Things I should be aware of and prepared for? My 120g was setup in 8hrs because I had to move suddenly. I have never been happy with the scape and how messy the tank is. I added a pic of it as well.
I look forward to everyone's input and assistance, as this is quickly becoming a daunting task. My father has affectionately nicknamed it "Ryan's war of attrition"