Re-newed Reefer pre-planning a big tank

shall72769 · Aug 14, 2026

I’m about to pull the trigger on a new tank after 30 years out of the hobby. I’m looking at the IM 200 peninsula. I thought about a smaller tank but figured I should just go big to start rather than spending another 2,500 on a smaller AIO first. Anybody think this is a bad idea? Either the go big part or the peninsula part?

Also I’m wondering about any pre-planning I need to do since I’m building a post and beam barn that will house my aquarium. I’m definitely planning on installing it close to a utility sink with an RO/DI close as well. As far as electrical I’m planning on 2 dedicated circuits to the tank on gfci receptacles for safety and redundancy. Anything else I should pre-plan during the build?

Thanks! I’ve learned so much from reading/digesting all the great information available on this forum.

Planning to post a build thread when I finally pull the trigger.

Uncle99 · Aug 14, 2026

Nothing wrong going 200 versus 100, but the tank is not AIO, IM stops AIO at 80 gallons.

IM makes a quality product IMO and starting with “safe” power is a GREAT start.

When we go “big” (and that’s different to each person) we need to ensure the floor can handle it.

The other consideration might be running costs, which will be higher pro-rata in terms of water, electricity, salt, livestock and additives. Budget is different for all of us and when we “committ” we’ve committ for hopefully decades.

I would agree, go as big as you feel comfortable because upgrading later is costly.

Enjoy

allof fish · Aug 14, 2026

Sounds great! Definitely go as big as your heart desires and that you can afford. Don’t go big unless you can afford all the equipment and expenses long term. Everyone’s budget is different. IM makes great tanks even though I’ve never had one heard great things. Definitely plan it all out in advance. Peninsulas can be a pain with flow just keep in mind. Good luck!