Stpatrick's Red Sea Reefer 425 xl build

[Stpatrick]

Here’s a look after it was all installed. Fits really nicely.

 

[Stpatrick]

I’m not used to all this high-tech equipment. Look what I forgot to install. Better late than never I guess.

 

[Stpatrick]

I need to get the return line connected to the reefers xl return line. Obviously I’m not using the hose barb fitting that came with the kit. I was researching how I was going to achieve this and I saw on another reefers build thread how he did it. By Simply sanding down the 1 inch PVC it will slide up into the reefer return line. Glue, set, all secure.

 

[Stpatrick]

I’ve been thinking a lot about wire management and how to keep it tucked away and clean as possible. Again. I saw this on another reefers build thread and this is what he was using. Pretty slick.

 

[PanchoG]

It is going to look great !

 

[Stpatrick]

I’ve been toying with the idea of swapping out the gray primary and secondary overflow lines. But decided to keep them. I think not only do they look good with a contrasting colors but why fix it if it’s not broken.

 

[SuncrestReef]

I started working on the diaphragm. This is my first rendition. Nothing glued in place yet. I think it will work well for access and serviceability.

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One thing I'd recommend is angling the valves downwards just a few degrees rather than having them perfectly horizontal. It makes reaching and turning the knobs much easier in my system.

 

[CDavmd]

I’ve been toying with the idea of swapping out the gray primary and secondary overflow lines. But decided to keep them. I think not only do they look good with a contrasting colors but why fix it if it’s not broken.

The diaphragm valve will drive you nuts. Difficult to get dialed in and stay consistent. Strongly recommend a gate valve.

 

[SuncrestReef]

I’ve been thinking a lot about wire management and how to keep it tucked away and clean as possible. Again. I saw this on another reefers build thread and this is what he was using. Pretty slick.

I'd also recommend planning cable management in advance for maintenance or replacement of certain items. For example, you will want to periodically remove your return pump for cleaning, and Apex probes eventually need replacement. If cables are routed in a way that makes tracing a cable or removing a cable impossible, it will turn a small job into a big one.

 

[Stpatrick]

The diaphragm valve will drive you nuts. Difficult to get dialed in and stay consistent. Strongly recommend a gate valve.

Are you referring to the reefers overflow valve?

 

[Stpatrick]

I'd also recommend planning cable management in advance for maintenance or replacement of certain items. For example, you will want to periodically remove your return pump for cleaning, and Apex probes eventually need replacement. If cables are routed in a way that makes tracing a cable or removing a cable impossible, it will turn a small job into a big one.

Great input. Thank you

 

[CDavmd]

Are you referring to the reefers overflow valve?

yes

 

[Stpatrick]

yes

I haven’t thought about that. And I have not read on any of the other threads that that Valve is an issue. Are you having issues with yours?

 

[CDavmd]

I never used mine. I replaced it with a gate valve from the start.

If you search the forums and google, you will encounter several threads with issues maintaining a consistent water level and noise. @pelphrey has a video showing how gunked up they become over time.

A gate valve will be set and forget.

 

[PanchoG]

I have a S-500 and the valve has never give issues, I clean it every 6 months. No noise and no issues with the water level in 18 months.

 

[Stpatrick]

I never used mine. I replaced it with a gate valve from the start.

If you search the forums and google, you will encounter several threads with issues maintaining a consistent water level and noise. @pelphrey has a video showing how gunked up they become over time.

A gate valve will be set and forget.

I will definitely rethink this.

 

[ncaldwell]

I have to adjust mine at least once a week, the stock one is a pain. Highly recommend replacing it

 

[Stpatrick]

I have to adjust mine at least once a week, the stock one is a pain. Highly recommend replacing it

I am following the advice of my reefoligists. I will be installing a gate valve.

 

[Stpatrick]

Update time. Working at concealing wires.

 

[Stpatrick]

I think I have my lighting sorted as well. I picked up this 4x54 HO T5 pendant. It has mounts for all the top LED lights on the market. Pretty slick. I’m just not sure which LEDs I’m going to role with. I’m leaning toward the hydra 52. Input? I also plan on using six-inch baseboard to frame the pendant. I plan on painting it satin white To match the stand.

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