Build Input

[my_reef]

Starting a new UNS R60 build. I’m looking for recommendations on a wave maker and protein skimmer appropriately sized and that works well with my aquascape. I currently have a SDC 3.0 return pump and heater. I do plan on getting the ReefMat 250 eventually to replace the socks (already have the adapter). Any input is appreciated!

 

[kingranch2003]

Nice looking build! if you wanted to add some live rock to the tank for biodiversity and didn't want it in the display, you could bag some smaller pieces up and place them behind the AIO wall. I use filter pad in my cube tank, because alot of the smaller rollers and skimmers haven't seemed to work for me. A $15 bag of filter floss lasts me 6 months or more and does an excellent job.

I have one of each of these wavemakers.

hygger DC Wavemaker Pump - hygger

Aquarium DC wavemaker pump circulates water and helps debris get sucked up by the filter, keeping the water clean and mimicking the natural current in tanks.

www.hygger-online.com

Nero 3 Powerhead (2000 GPH)

Small, Powerful, and Smart! Max Flow - 2000 GPH Ideal for Aquariums 5-60 Gallons App control with MyAI, Mobius, or MXM Compatible with Glass Thickness up to .5" (13mm) Fish Guard Included to Protect Tank Inhabitants AquaIllumination's Nero 3 creates an adjustable broad flow that is strong...

www.bulkreefsupply.com

The hygger is an excellent pump for the price, but lacks the app of the nero 3. Honestly the nero alone would probably flow the entire tank (40 gallon AIO Cube) but I like the back and forth flow I get with both. Good luck to you!

 

[slingfox]

Very nice look tank setup and aquascape. I never had a tank that size so don’t have any equipment recommendations. One recommendation is to get ocean live sand from a place like Tampa Bay Saltwater. That should hopefully provide more biodiversity. 100% dry rock start is very tough. It will be great in the beginning but can be hell when the uglies come in months 5-10.

What kind of coral do you plan to add?

 

[Gumbies R Us]

Looking good! I do agree that live rock is never a bad thing to add to the tank.

Do you want more rock in there or just what you have?

 

[UNS_Parker]

Here's a spreadsheet with some equipment compatibility for our reef systems:



I added live rock into the protein skimmer chamber. You can also put some smaller live rock rubble in the first chamber underneath the filter socks.

 

[BryanM]

I'll 2nd slingfox's recommendation to add live sand.

Looks good!

 

[my_reef]

Thanks for the tips! I’ll definitely be adding some live rock to my sump. I’m aiming for a mixed reef with mainly lps/softies with some easier sps. I’m debating a gyre style wavemaker vs a jet stream style but unsure which would work better for my aquascape.

 

[BryanM]

Thanks for the tips! I’ll definitely be adding some live rock to my sump. I’m aiming for a mixed reef with mainly lps/softies with some easier sps. I’m debating a gyre style wavemaker vs a jet stream style but unsure which would work better for my aquascape.

Either is fine, I prefer gyres, and the maxspect 350's I have have adjustable flow directors so I can "point" water left and right too.

 

[my_reef]

Here's a spreadsheet with some equipment compatibility for our reef systems:



I added live rock into the protein skimmer chamber. You can also put some smaller live rock rubble in the first chamber underneath the filter socks.

What percentage would you suggest running a SDC 3.0? I’m having trouble tuning everything

 

[UNS_Parker]

What percentage would you suggest running a SDC 3.0? I’m having trouble tuning everything

You can run it anywhere from 50-100%. Have you adjusted the gate valve to raise the water level inside the overflow? We recommend getting the sump water level to about 2/3 the height of the sump.

 

[my_reef]

I’m running it at 80% but barely have any flow coming out of the return outlets. I got the gate valve adjusted finally but just not enough output from the pump. Would a SDC 6.0 be better?