Hey, all. This is my first reef tank, and I am overwhelmed with all the equipment needs. I purchased a Waterbox 25g AIO peninsula tank and have an appropriate custom stand, but that is the only 'hardware' that I own at this time. Included below is a potential build list. If possible, I would love to get the costs down either by purchasing used products or less expensive alternatives. That said, I don't know where it is "safe" to cut costs, for example, I've read that you should never skimp out on a quality heater system. Thank you in advance for your comments, critiques, advice, etc. as I narrow things down.
Not Included Above (but need to purchase):
- Live rock
- Live sand
Example alternatives:
Instead of the MP10, opt for NERO-3 ($350 vs $180)
Component | Name | Est. Price |
Tank | Waterbox Peninsula Mini 25 (owned) | $318.75 |
Stand | Homemade (owned) | $150.00 |
Heater System | 100W Titanium Aquarium Heater System - WiFi - Bulk Reef Supply | $118.99 |
Heater | Titanium Heater Element - Bulk Reef Supply | $58.49 |
Powerhead | VorTech MP10QD | $349.99 |
Powerhead add-on | VorTech Urchin Standard Flow Pump Guard | $26.99 |
ATO System | Smart ATO Nano - AutoAqua | $129.99 |
Lighting System | Prime 16 HD LED Reef Light - Black Body - Aqua Illumination | $249.99 |
Lighting System | Prime Flex Arm - 12 Inch - Aqua Illumination | $30.99 |
Testing Equipment | Hanna Checker - Alkalinity | $54.95 |
Testing Equipment | Hanna Checker - Phosphate | $54.95 |
Testing Equipment | Hanna Checker - Nitrate | $54.95 |
Testing Equipment | Hanna Checker - Marine Salinity | $75.00 |
Cost total (no tax) | $1,674.03 |
Not Included Above (but need to purchase):
- Live rock
- Live sand
Example alternatives:
Instead of the MP10, opt for NERO-3 ($350 vs $180)