90 Gallon Reef Build

[Chetscc]

Hello All,

Decide to get back into reef keeping. It has been around 15 years since my last one. Plumbing is 75% complete.

Lots to buy yet and boy have things changed.

Let the fun begin.

Gear:
90 Gallon Marineland
Custom Stand
Eclipse L 1000 gph External Overflow
Bashsea Smart Series Sump 30x14x16
Octo Reef VarioS-4 Return Pump
Hydros WiFi Power Strip 4
Govee LED Strip Light for Sump Area
BRS 75 GPD 6 Stage RO/DI Unit

Skimmer: TBD looking for a good DC model
Lights: Planning on AI Blades
Heaters: TBD
Salt: TBD

 

[Subsea]

@Chetscc
This is what we used 40 years ago. Ling Sy EcoSystem. On my 75G display, I used one for 20 yrs, then removed macro algae, turned out lights and added live rock.

 

[Subsea]

So, as you can see, I am old school.

Have you decided how you want your tank stocked?

2 minutes ago.

 

[Chetscc]

Not 100% sure but probably a mixed tank. Then of course tangs, clowns and other fish that have a purpose. Also, will probably add a refugium, based on needs for nitrate and phosphate removal. Will also probably place a few pieces of live rock in the sump.

 

[Chetscc]

My biggest challenge is finding the right DC skimmer. To many choices.

 

[Subsea]

My biggest challenge is finding the right DC skimmer. To many choices.

What is the advantage of a DC skimmer?

I recently starting using 12VDC air pumps as part of UPS backup for critical functions.

 

[Chetscc]

Noise, goal is to get rid of the hum from the pump. Same with my DC return pump. Supposed to be dead silent.

 

[Subsea]

Noise, goal is to get rid of the hum from the pump. Same with my DC return pump. Supposed to be dead silent.

DC pumps in marine environment are durable. Consider looking in marine boat/yacht accessories. I suspect, they may be less costly then hobby supplier

However, post in reef equipment forum for recommendations. You will get many.

 

[Chetscc]

Plumbing is complete and water going in. Super excited.

 

[Chetscc]

Super excited as we are full of fresh water. Took about a week but we finally made it.

Couple small leaks around fittings that were either not tight enough or needed more pipe tape. All good now though!

 

[Chetscc]

Heaters and controller have arrived!

 

[Gumbies R Us]

Plumbing is complete and water going in. Super excited.

Good luck with the cycle!

 

[Chetscc]

Jecod DMP-40 wave maker received.

 

[Chetscc]

Also making progress on a water station area.

Painted, new wash tub, and some plumbing. Still need to fasten up the plumbing and electrical.

 

[Chetscc]

More progress on the water station. Built a DIY RODI water container with overflow protection. 32 gallon Rubbermaid trashcan for saltwater mixing. Not the prettiest and still need to clean up a bit, but functional.

 

[Chetscc]

Also, purchased the sand and rock. Fiji Pink fine sand. Little nervous it might be a little fine for high flow. Anyone else use it? Ecoscape Reef rock, with some live rock and cured pieces of Ecoscape.

 

[Chetscc]

Next round of additional equipment while the tank cycles. Super excited to install or use them.

Hydros Start
Glass tank tops
Reef Octopus 150-S Skimmer
AL Blade 39” Grow
Hanna PH meter
ATC Refractometer

 

[Chetscc]

Reef Octopus 150-S installed and breaking in.

 

[Chetscc]

Hydros Start installed with temperature probe and controlling my Hydros 4 port WiFi outlet.

 

[Chetscc]

If you have a controller, what are you using it for?