Hi all, I'm new on here and I need some advice. My dad is wanting to get into saltwater. He currently has a 55g freshwater setup and would like to convert it to a reef tank. He should probably start off slow so I think some nice looking fish and softies would be good enough for him. However, he doesn't want to spend a lot of money. Looks like its gonna cost a lot though. 48" light about $300-$400 at least, overflow $150, sump $?, pumps $?, skimmer... OUCH! What should I do? Please help!
I've had good luck with chinese lighting. You don't have to start with MH. The website I used http://aquatraders.com seems to be down today but, a 108w t5 fixture will probably run less than 75$. Don't skimp on your skimmer. I have and enjoy an aquac remora pro.
I have a sump that is drilled for return pump for sale, and could be used for a refugium as well. As far as overflows...i would just drill the back of the tank for 1 1/2" bulkheads and run 90 degree PVC up for overflow and returns. cheap, easy, reliable!
Nate, plan to attend our next meeting at my house in Conway on the 21st and you can talk to several very knowledgable folks about setting up your system. May be able to find some good used equipment too. We will be talking about setting up a frag system and then doing a hands on set up of my system. Hope to see you and everyone there.
also if your not comfortable drilling the back glass and dont want to spend the money for an overflow you can diy a pvc overflow for about 12.00 at lowes. it just requires a few elbows, a tee, and a few short sections of pvc.
This guy is up in Jonesborro. I have no personal experience, but have been told his light systems are good, and fairly reasonably priced. http://www.nea-reefkeeping.com/
Thanks for your help guys. I may be interested in your sump Cam. Never know, I might be able to make the meeting. I am off on Saturday. So you guys think the aqua c remora is a good skimmer to go with? What are your opinions on skimmer. I've seen a few how-to videos on drilling a glass tank but I'm still kinda scared seeing how it's my dads tank.
You can contact Chris or Blake and purchase a glass hole-saw bit and then take it to Chris' and he probably will drill it for you
