Set up of reef tank

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Silvrav

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Hi

So I think I have the basic knowledge and got some questions and looking for general help.

Is my understanding of the flow of a reef tank correct?

DT -> (via overflow) -> sump (with 3 chambers, 1 for skimmer, one for DSB, 1 for return pump) -> DT?

What tools/equipment do you gents use to do the water test (ph, alk, etc.) and where in Pretoria is good suppliers of such items?

I am looking at acquiring @Helga 's setup from this forum....is it a good starter?

I am in no rush so would like to be comfortable before I just jump in and possibly "drown" :p
 
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Silvrav said:
What tools/equipment do you gents use to do the water test (ph, alk, etc.) and where in Pretoria is good suppliers of such items?
Click to expand...
For testing, there are various types of equipment. For your parameters test kits can be used, or a combination of kits and equipment. Remember to get a good brand of kit.
For testing salinity you can use a refactormeter.

Silvrav said:
DT -> (via overflow) -> sump (with 3 chambers, 1 for skimmer, one for DSB, 1 for return pump) -> DT?
Click to expand...
Yes that the basics of hope it all hangs together.
 
You can contact @lanzo from Dorry Pets, they will help you with whatever you need.

You can look at Salifert test kits for your water and def get a refractometer to test salinity... IMO
 
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Well, the tank is not too bad. And some equiptmenty is ok. Not the best, but as stated not bad for a beginner tank.

Sorry Helga, I'm not out to offend you. Opinions was asked, and this is my opinion. Silvrav can make up his own mind.

I do not like the sump. For fish only with live rock, that sump is 100%. I do not know the skimmer capability, but you can use Google (I do not want to google it now - too lazy). But check it out, maybe a better skimmer.

Circulation pumps, SunSun, they are dirt cheap, but they work. Problem is that they tend not to last. But, again they are beginner pumps, perfect.

For myself, I would use the tank and lights. The other equiptment I would upgrade quickly. But to start of with, not too shaby.

But I would not use that cabinet as is, neither that sump. I like a big DSB. And there is no space in that cabinet. Have to remove the central vertical support and put some steel structure in place. To be able to fit a full size sump. That would be better.

If I'm willing to pay 7000 for just the tank and lights? Well, read between the lines...
 
Oh, I see the price is dropped to 5000

Hmm, better.

for the lights R2000 (at least when new).
return pump R500 (maybe more when new)
Skimmer R1000
Sun Sun pumps and other goodies R500
so you pay R1000 for the tank.

Acceptable.

If you buy it and one day throw out the bio-balls, I will take them. For my koi-pond.
 
Thanks Gents...so far so good :)

@RIAAN...that helped a lot. Now just to decided.

I will most likely not go just for fish and would like a full reef setup in time. Therefore, I will increase the supports for the cabinet to allow a nice big DSB.

Will let you know, if i buy it, when I sell the bio-balls as I do want to go DSB
 
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ok, been chatting to some of you (thanks so far) and decided that I might go DIY (well 90% DIY :) )

I was thinking of designing a metal frame (something like below) and getting a color wood that fits with my current lounge for the sides and doors.

It will be strong enough to hold a 1200x500x600 tank...Just one question? Who has a calculator for me to work out the weight of a tank once it is filled :p

Cabinet dimensions: 1260x560x500(h)
supports on back, and both sides
52934e4a811c16b97.png

o+hyZZXG9AAAAAElFTkSuQmCC
 
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Silvrav said:
ok, been chatting to some of you (thanks so far) and decided that I might go DIY (well 90% DIY :) )

I was thinking of designing a metal frame (something like below) and getting a color wood that fits with my current lounge for the sides and doors.

It will be strong enough to hold a 1200x500x600 tank...Just one question? Who has a calculator for me to work out the weight of a tank once it is filled :p

Cabinet dimensions: 1260x560x500(h)
supports on back, and both sides
52934e4a811c16b97.png

o+hyZZXG9AAAAAElFTkSuQmCC
Click to expand...


There is a weight calculator on the forum...

have a look here:

Tank Weight, Glass Weight Calculator - Marine Aquariums of South Africa
 
I would rather remove the cross bars on the sides and have a bar in the middle in the front side.. then bars on top
 
Tremayn said:
I would rather remove the cross bars on the sides and have a bar in the middle in the front side.. then bars on top
Click to expand...

Thanks. Forgot about the top (and bottom in fact :p )

I am also looking at placing 6mm stainless steel sheet on top.

My concern with a bar in the front is that it will then be difficult to remove a nice sized sump...which is what i am planning to go with...

Comments?
 
I just carried my stand ontop of the sump then slid the whole thing in place lol. You can push the sump in from the side of the stand. I would recommend a support in the middle as its a lot of weight. Or use real big square tubing :)
 
Silvrav said:
Hi

will a TS1 skimmer work well for a 300l tank?
Click to expand...

If I'm not mistaken a TS1 is rated for 300L, I would go for a TS2 which is rated for about 500L...


Just my 2c...
 
You are underestimating the strength of steel
Your tank is slightly bigger than a standard Daro 1.2m tank. and had you seen their stands?
 
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