next step?
Printed From: Utah Reefs
Category: Specialized Discussion
Forum Name: DIY
Forum Description: Do it Yourself
URL: http://www.utahreefs.com/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=41190
Printed Date: August 02 2026 at 11:27am
Software Version: Web Wiz Forums 12.03 - http://www.webwizforums.com
Topic: next step?
Posted By: mr.magoo
Subject: next step?
Date Posted: May 23 2010 at 11:29pm
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Ok i well i am putting together a: 55gal show tank 40.00
20L sump/refuge (DIY) 34.00
350gph return pump trade
265gph skimmer trade
4x54 T5 w/4 led moon lights 100.00
2 aqueon 700gph powerheads 86.00
2X19 CFL [sump/refuge] (DIY) 17.00
25gpd ro unit 50.00
custom built stand & canopy (DIY) 80.00
hob overflow trade
I think i got some realy good deals on most of my stuff it has taken me about 3 months to put it all together and to work on the DIY projects. The stand & canopyare painted black along with the back glass on the tank with a black feame tank and sump/refuge i love it it looks great. But now i am at a point i am not sure where to go next on what to do? I think the next thing i need to is get my rock and sand I belive? not sure I am going to use utah sand and rock. How do i go about seeding the sand and rock? Do I mix my water in my tank? And i am not sure on how to place my 2 power heads inside the tank? I know it is alot of things I dont know but I am new to salt keeping and man there is alot to learn and but! lol It is alot but i think I am doing ok to start out in the hobby so if any of you could help me out with info that would be great
 . And if you can think of some thing i dont have yet that i need let me know thanks!!!!!! |
Replies:
Posted By: xlr8r
Date Posted: May 23 2010 at 11:58pm
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I would first put your water in first. you can mix in tank the first time, but never after livestock is put in. Mix it in separate bucket( for water changes top-off should be fresh water). Ensure proper specific gravity. Sand and rock second. I went about 30% LR and the rest LBTR, and "dead" sand, with a cup full of donated LS. After a few weeks it will all seed. Just watch your parameters. Power head position is experimental in my opinion. Lower position with them pointing up to the surface. Be sure to agitate the surface, and get good water turbulance.
MOST important: PATIENCE!!! Good Luck! ------------- When you hear hoofbeats....Think of a zebra |
Posted By: Mark Peterson
Date Posted: May 24 2010 at 8:57am
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Looking good. The only thing I can see is that you may need a heater if the tank is not in a warm area(+70 degrees) seeding the sand and rock? The more the better, just like I explained here; LS, LR, LW, and Macroalgae: http://www.utahreefs.com/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=9244 - http://www.utahreefs.com/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=9244 mix the water in my tank? It can be done but is easier in a tub or large container that you dip or pump out of. I say this because if mixed in the tank, there is blowing sand to contend with. It's better to place the sand in first to avoid a huge dust cloud that can take days to settle. place 2 power heads inside the tank? I agree with XLR8. Place them in back bottom corners shooting up to the water surface front center. I've done a lot of experimenting at getting the best flow for the least amount of powerheads and this works the best. When you come over to get the sand and rock, I'll be happy to show a lot more tips on how to set it up.  Ask me how to keep rock off the sand for maximum biofiltration. I'm setting up a system right now that will make it easier to see and understand.------------- Reefkeeping Tips, & quick, easy setup tricks: www.utahreefs.com/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=9244 Pay it forward - become a paid WMAS member 
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