Next priority?? - $$

[tchat]

So I bought a package deal on a tank, stand, sump, lights, pumps, etc. Tideline crystalline g2 78 gallon, trigger crystal sump, Nyos 120 skimmer, 2 popbloom RL90 lights, 2 jecod powerheads - dmp 20 & 30 (ecotech clones), and a Jebao return pump.

I initially planned to buy xr15s, mp40s, vectra return pump and I likely still will eventually but for now the tank is cycling and this can get me started.

My question is where should my next priority be? Add a basic controller/monitor? Upgrade the lights, return pump, or flow? Save the money for fish and coral? What do you think is the best next step with funds budgeted for the tank?

Thanks!

 

[Blitheran]

I would say get the tank started with what you have and let the tank tell you. After a month or two of cycling, is the light struggling? is the return pump struggling? etc... let the tank tell you. No need to change something unless you want to, being that you are budget conscious. You dont even need a controller till later so if funds are tight maybe wait.

 

[tchat]

I would say get the tank started with what you have and let the tank tell you. After a month or two of cycling, is the light struggling? is the return pump struggling? etc... let the tank tell you. No need to change something unless you want to, being that you are budget conscious. You dont even need a controller till later so if funds are tight maybe wait.

Funds aren’t a huge concern tbh. I just “budget” x amount over time which makes it more palatable for my wife haha. I think your point is a good one regardless though. Thanks!

 

[TylerHaworth]

What are your goals for the system? This will help with advice on what you do or don't need to upgrade.

 

[Gman83]

I'd invest in some live rock and sand.

 

[MushroomMan101]

I didn’t see you mention an ATO. I consider them critical to the success of any reef tank. As others have said let the tank cycle and replace items as you out grow them.

 

[tchat]

What are your goals for the system? This will help with advice on what you do or don't need to upgrade.

It’s my first saltwater tank. Mixed reef, would like to try some easier sps down the road on one of my two Ecoscape rock islands

 

[tchat]

I didn’t see you mention an ATO. I consider them critical to the success of any reef tank. As others have said let the tank cycle and replace items as you out grow them.

I'd invest in some live rock and sand.

Forgot to mention I have already ordered some TBS sand which comes next week and I also have a tunze osmolator 3 ATO with the 15 gal innovative marine reservoir.

 

[Mebbid]

Idk, if it were me I would hold off on purchasing things until the stuff you're currently using needs to be replaced. The return pump, lights, and powerheads should all be sufficient to run the tank for whatever you need.

A temperature controller with some quality heating components would be my #1 purchase.

 

[Gumbies R Us]

Forgot to mention I have already ordered some TBS sand which comes next week and I also have a tunze osmolator 3 ATO with the 15 gal innovative marine reservoir.

Good choice on the ATO!

 

[tchat]

Idk, if it were me I would hold off on purchasing things until the stuff you're currently using needs to be replaced. The return pump, lights, and powerheads should all be sufficient to run the tank for whatever you need.

A temperature controller with some quality heating components would be my #1 purchase.

My current temp controller is an inkbird with one BRS titanium and one sicce scuba heater Y’d together with an outlet splitter. Idk if the splitter is a good idea, could upgrade to the innovative marine controller with two dedicated outlets but this is working for now.

 

[BryanM]

Splitter is not a good idea for high wattage items.

I would also hold off on more purchases while you get used to what you already have... that experience will likely direct you in a particular direction.