SYoung's IM100 EXT Build Thread

[Syoung]

Hey reefers, after a long (6+ year) break I'm finally ready to get back into the hobby. Previously I ran an IM 25G Lagoon built into an entertainment center, and had a blast. I did run into issues with the lack of water volume and accessibility, so I'm hoping to fix both in this build.

Build:
- IM100 EXT
- IM APS Stand
- Sump: RFS-39 - Potentially modified

Filtration:
- Skimmer: Akula UKS-160
- Reefmat 500
- Very interested in using a roller mat rather than filter socks, but I need to modify the RFS-39 sump
- Refugium (TBD light)
- Lifeguard 25W UV

Control:
- Apex A3

Lighting:
- (2) AI Hydra 32HD

Flow:
- MP40
- Dual Sicce Syncra SDC 6.0 return pumps
- (Tentative) AI Orbit 4 Gyre Pump

Hoping to get some feedback before I make too many mistakes! Especially as I try to modify the sump for the Reefmat.

 

[Fish Fan]

Welcome back from hiatus, and good luck with your build!

 

[Syoung]

But most importantly, I had to set up a water change station to support ~150 gallons of total water volume.

Here's the station I just finished:

It's dual 32 gallon containers, the left is freshwater fed from the RODI unit and the right is saltwater. Unfortunately I made a mistake and didn't include a valve to the saltwater return. I'll fix that next week!

The plan is to use this station to pump saltwater ~50' to where the tank is. Hopefully with a Sicce Syncra SDC 6.0 it'll be powerful enough.

 

[Syoung]

Welcome back from hiatus, and good luck with your build!

Thanks Fish Fan! I'll need the luck

 

[Syoung]

First question:

Has anyone run into the impeller area of the Sicce Syncra SDC 6.0 leaking? It's very slow, but haven't been able to solve it. I've confirmed the O-Rings are in place.