Filtration Planning

[Shaner T]

This is a fantastic forum! I have done some reading, but have much more to go before I actually purchase my system.

I am planning either a 75 or 100 gallon Fish w/ Live Rock tank. I eventually (several years) plan on converting to a reef tank.

What do you all think of using the AquaClear Pro systems? They seem like they are a complete system (includes skimmer and pump) but want to know if there is something better I should be looking at. I figured I could buy this now and just use it without the bio balls when I convert to a reef later on.

What are the long term considerations with this system? Also, is it really worth upgrading to the next higher sytem (ie: if i have a 75g tank, should I buy the 125g rated system?)

Thanks in advance. I'm looking forward to hearing about the pros/cons of the Aqua Clear type systems.

Shane

[OrionGirl]

Haven't used one, but for the price it looks to be a waste. The wet dry won't be needed for filtration, and you'll still need to buy a return pump for this to run. Not sure on the skimmer, but it's not a place to skimp, so I think you'd be better off buying a skimmer, DIY for a sump, and get a good return pump. With live rock and sand, that's all you really need. You should be able to assemble all that for less than $350. If you go with this system, you'll be looking at about $400 to get the pump and this setup, and still need to get a sump.

[Shaner T]

DIY is not an option for me right now. Since I'm a beginner to saltwater, I'm not all that comfortable putting that together myself until I have a good understanding of what really goes on with a tank.

I've found some great internet deals on those systems for @ $300 (return pump included). A guy at the LFS told me they just changed the look of the design and made them bit smaller so the old systems are going on clearance.

[OrionGirl]

Even with the systems, there will be some plumbing you'll need to do yourself--just a pointer. If you're comfortable with the price, then you can go for it. You'll need to clean the media regularly to prevent it from contributing to nitrates--this can be a pain, so make sure you have easy access to it.

See what others say about the AC skimmers. I really like other AC products, and have had good luck with everything I've bought from them, but I've never heard of these, so they may not be adeqaute. I've upgraded from the initial skimmer on my tank 3 times now, so I advise people to get the very best they can afford--makes it easier in the long run.

[liquafaction]

Your gonna have to DIY somethime or another, why not your first system. I thin the best way to learn is learning from mistakes. Just ask questions, and figure it out.

[Shaner T]

I've done some more reading...what do you think about the following:

* Decided to skip the wet/dry idea for now since I've learned about the nitrate buildup problems
* Will definately utilize live rock, live sand, a couple of good powerheads, and a good quality skimmer (the Aqua C Remora has been recommended)


Should I also consider a good canister filter to used when needed? This will be a fish only tank.

[OrionGirl]

I'm in favor of having some power filtration available, but it doesn't need to be your first consideration. I've never had to run the power filter on the SW setups, so they really are a backup, and you can get by with a cheaper filter just as well.

Otherwise--looks like a good setup.