IM Nuvo 100 EXT complete build

[turbo2oh]

I'm setting up a IM Nuvo 100 EXT tank! I'm replacing an old 60g Reef Savvy that has been sitting empty for some time now. I'll try to keep my progress updated here but I have a few initial questions as I dive in.

1. I had a plumber install a icemaker water line in the closet where I play to setup the RO/DI, electronics, water storage etc. Do I need some type of ferrule to connect the RO/DI line? (attaching a photo)

2. What strategy do most people use to move a tank of this size down the stairs and on to the stand? How many people? I've read people buy/rent the suction cups, not sure if that's needed for a tank of this size. I also have a set of those straps that go around your shoulders and under the item you're carrying. I could check if those are long enough to carry this tank. Curious on general approaches. I'm getting feedback from my wife that we should just pay movers to do it.

 

[Aaron Stone]

I recently setup an IM 150. We used a movers dolly, which has the sliders on the back for going up and down stairs. Getting it on the stand was just brute strength.

 

[charleydavis]

I'm setting up a IM Nuvo 100 EXT tank! I'm replacing an old 60g Reef Savvy that has been sitting empty for some time now. I'll try to keep my progress updated here but I have a few initial questions as I dive in.

1. I had a plumber install a icemaker water line in the closet where I play to setup the RO/DI, electronics, water storage etc. Do I need some type of ferrule to connect the RO/DI line? (attaching a photo)

2. What strategy do most people use to move a tank of this size down the stairs and on to the stand? How many people? I've read people buy/rent the suction cups, not sure if that's needed for a tank of this size. I also have a set of those straps that go around your shoulders and under the item you're carrying. I could check if those are long enough to carry this tank. Curious on general approaches. I'm getting feedback from my wife that we should just pay movers to do it.

How much does it weigh empty? And how strong are you? I am guessing it weighs close to 200 lbs. empty (check with IM). This probably could be managed with suction cups and two strong people. But actually I agree with your wife.

 

[KStatefan]

Myself and one of my coworkers moved my 100 ext to the basement using suction cups. I have a set of the forearm forklifts that work good but did not try with the tank

Yes you need a ferrel to hook up the tubing

 

[turbo2oh]

Myself and one of my coworkers moved my 100 ext to the basement using suction cups. I have a set of the forearm forklifts that work good but did not try with the tank

Yes you need a ferrel to hook up the tubing

Any idea what type and where I could get the ferrel?

 

[KStatefan]

Any idea what type and where I could get the ferrel?

Hardware store

 

[turbo2oh]

Progress Update + Equipment Check – Feedback Welcome!


Well I have minimal progress! I found the ferrule, so I should be good to go on the RO/DI repairs. Just need to grab some mounting hardware and then I’ll be able to mount the unit on the wall.

I also got the stand moved into place. I must have installed part of the frame upside down. The logo is correctly oriented on the front, but the side doors open toward the rear instead of the front. Doesn’t seem like a significant functional issue, so I’m planning to leave it as-is unless someone thinks it’ll bite me later.

Before I move the tank downstairs and start filling it, I’ve been going through my equipment list and prepping a few final purchases.

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What I Already Have:​

• BRS 5-stage 75 GPD RO/DI (need to fix a broken tee)
• Neptune Apex (with 30ft AquaBus extension cable)
• Neptune DOS with dosing containers
• Reef Saver dry rock
• Sicce Syncra SDC 6.0 return pump
• MightyJet XL return pump (came with the tank – still deciding which to use vs. keep as backup)
• Reef Octopus eSsence S-130 skimmer
• Kessil A360WE + Aquatic Life T5 hybrid fixture (probably won't reuse)

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About to Order:​

• Tubing and tees to fix the RO/DI
• Tropic Marin Pro Reef salt
• Microbacter Start XLM + QuickCycl
• 60 lbs CaribSea Special Grade Arag-Alive sand
• New LED refractometer
• Salifert test kits (Ammonia/Nitrite/Nitrate)
• Brute trash can for saltwater mixing

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Still Deciding / Need Help:​

• Heaters: Leaning toward 2x 300w Finnex, but should I pair them with a controller or go with something Apex-integrated?
• Lighting: I really like Kessil products. Considering the AP9X, but open to thoughts or other suggestions.
• ATO: Torn between:
  • Avast Marine Parrot ATO
  • Neptune ATK V2
  • Tunze Osmolator 3

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Longer-Term Plans:​

• Designing a water change and storage station with plumbing and storage for both RO and saltwater. Still sketching out ideas.

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Anything obvious I’m missing? Suggestions, warnings, or gear recommendations are all welcome especially if you’ve used any of the equipment I’m still on the fence about.

 

[turbo2oh]

Tank is on the stand!

 

[KStatefan]

I would not run a tank without using Ranco temperature controllers

 

[turbo2oh]

I would not run a tank without using Ranco temperature controllers

Ah too late, I placed an order yesterday and went with Inkbird ITS-306a and 2x 300w BRS heaters.

 

[turbo2oh]

Also, plumbing is done!

 

[turbo2oh]

Thinking through aquascape. Initial thoughts on this approach? I have rubble to fill in gaps

 

[charleydavis]

Ah too late, I placed an order yesterday and went with Inkbird ITS-306a and 2x 300w BRS heaters.

It's never too late. If you don't like it. Return it or replace it if they won't take it back. It is your choice.

 

[turbo2oh]

I was planning to use my Sicce SDC 6.0 pump as my return pump instead of the included mighty jet XL pump. The issue is the adapters I have for the Sicce pump don’t match. The Sicce doesn’t have a small enough barb. Any advice?

 

[KStatefan]

What size of tubing?

 

[turbo2oh]

The manual for the tank says 3/4”

 

[KStatefan]

The manual for the tank says 3/4”

I am sure the Sicce pump comes with a 3/4” nipple or get a fitting to glue into one of the fittings

 

[Üter]

I was planning to use my Sicce SDC 6.0 pump as my return pump instead of the included mighty jet XL pump. The issue is the adapters I have for the Sicce pump don’t match. The Sicce doesn’t have a small enough barb. Any advice?

I have the mighty jet Xl. it's whisper quiet. I have the sicce 5.0 for the skimmer and it is noticeably much louder. also, sorry to chime in late but your ice maker line you will need to push out 70-80 psi for efficient RO filtering, if not, you will need a booster pump. I had together a booster pumps since mine was 45 or something.

 

[Arkayology]

I was planning to use my Sicce SDC 6.0 pump as my return pump instead of the included mighty jet XL pump. The issue is the adapters I have for the Sicce pump don’t match. The Sicce doesn’t have a small enough barb. Any advice?

Why not use the Mighty Jet? I really like mine.

 

[turbo2oh]

I am sure the Sicce pump comes with a 3/4” nipple or get a fitting to glue into one of the fittings

You can see the Sicce fittings I have in the photo. It’s not clear to me what is measured ID vs OD. But the one pictured on the mighty jet is the size I need without an additional adapter unless there’s another I managed to lose some how