Setting up a SW 100gal - I need your experience!

[Grady]

Hello all,
I will be setting up my 100gal again in Sept. and would like to give SW a try. I have been successful with several FW and would like to branch out. A couple of questions.

- Does anyone know of good setup threads already online for SW?

- Anyone have recommendation for equipment to purchase? The ultimate goal would be to have inverts in the tank. I currently have a SeaClear with incorperated 3 stage filter. I plan on adding additional filtration systems. The modular Pentair(?) system stikes my fancy - any experiences?

Thanks all,
GD

[rsw686]

You really don't need much as far as filtration on a SW setup as the live rock does the majority of that. On my 90gal tank I have a 20gal sump below with the heater, protein skimmer, and macro algae. The tank is crystal clear and the water parameters are excellent. The only reason for the sump is to provide a place to put all the equipment so its not sitting in the tank. I think that SeaClear is a wet/dry so you could modify that to suit your needs for SW.

Could of necessary things to get started
- refracometer to measure the salt content in the water (some people go with hydrometers but mine was way off and I was putting way to much salt in I wouldn't risk it, not to mention that the refractometer is easier to use)
- ammonia, nitrite, nitrate, calcium, alkalinity, phosphate, and ph test kits

[Tikidude]

Good luck with your set up phase. I'm still in the first week of my setup and I'm loving it. My tank is only 30gal, but that is big enough for me....for now that is.

I found a TON of info on these forums. Just look around and use the search engine. Everyone is really helpful.

The link to my setup is in my signature. Maybe you'll find something helpful there.

[Reefscape]

Personally, i would not use the filtration that came with the tank, but rather use live rock to provide this. You will need roughly 1 - 1.5lbs per gallon of tank water....

The system sounds very good in principle. There is so much information and experience here on the AC marine boards, and as Tiki says above, either use the search system of AC or post any questions at all...Always remember, even though you may feel dumb posting a question, we will never treat you or the question as such..ask many questions, absorb the information contained in the replys...We are all here to help and huide you through getting your tank up and running, and then helping you to maintain and get the tank thriving...

Good luck with it all

Niko

[Grady]

Thanks for all the comments and advice. Stand by for the posts coming in September. The more I read my planning is moving toward live rock and sand and a sump.

[SHK_ATK]

sounds like a fun project comming in the near future, One thing you could do from here and know is :read: :read: :read: as it makes understanding SW tanks a lot easier.

[5xevy]

This should be a good read for you:
http://www.reefcentral.com/modules.php?s=&name=Content&pa=showpage&pid=1

:)