150 Gallon Build Thread ... From the Start

[DrNo]

Don't have any experience with inline heaters.

3 filters... 3 items (heater, bioreactor, UV sterilizer) to install inline after the filter on the output side :headbang2:I'd install one on each filter.

This will minimize any flow reduction and make for the most robust setup.

 

[WaywardSon]

I already purchased 2 stealth heaters for in the tank. Black on black background should be pretty inconspicuous - but still wanted to keep the clutter to a minimum. I have a stealth in the 45 and have "never" had an ounce of problem with it ...

Just entertaining the inline question ...

 

[WaywardSon]

I am thinking a 2217 on each end with the sterilizer and reactor and a larger Eheim in the middle (2260, Pro). I know BK (and others) think the tri-2217 setup will keep it clean - just not 1000% sure (LOL)!

 

[WaywardSon]

Vader - is this the UV Sterilizer you have?

Gamma 25W Dual Mount

2,000 1,200 26" x 4" x 2-3/4" 125 1/2",3/4" in/out

If so, did you just rig up a reducer for the 3/4" out?

 

[DrNo]

Vader - is this the UV Sterilizer you have?

Gamma 25W Dual Mount

2,000 1,200 26" x 4" x 2-3/4" 125 1/2",3/4" in/out

If so, did you just rig up a reducer for the 3/4" out?

http://www.drsfostersmith.com/product/prod_display.cfm?c=3578+4393+11472&pcatid=11472

Correct. I don't trust plastic with UV (big surprise LOL) so I actually hit the hardware store and bought brass fittings for both the reduction and the inlet. My old (and inexpensive) UV sterilizer's plastic thread fittings crumbled like bread after all that UV exposure. It has a proprietary thread design so now its useless... they don't even manufacture it any more.

 

[WaywardSon]

/\ /\ Thanks Vader!

 

[roadracr]

In line heaters - anybody use them? What brand? Feedback would be great!

Coy,

Been following the thread, but haven't responded for a while. Great job! I have a similar 150g and am filtering with an Eheim 2217 and 2208. I originally had submersible filters, but have switched to Hydor 300W ETH filters. I really like having the hardware outside of the tank. The 300W Hydors are for 5/8" (16mm) tubing, so you will have to put them on the intake lines for the 2217's. They work great.

One other suggestion: use a separate temperature controller. I cannot vouch for the thermostat on the Hydors, but the most common point of failure for any heater is the cheap integrated thermostat. Check out this from Jehmco:

http://www.jehmco.com/html/temperature_controller.html

I have the ETCI-1R with the extra outlet to control two heaters. I really like this inline heater setup and it cleans up the inside of the tank.

Just my 2 cents.

roadracr

 

[WaywardSon]

Excellent Racr - thanks a million! I love the idea of less in the tank. The temp controller is sweet! Great man - thanks again!

 

[roadracr]

You're welcome. Glad to see that the tank will soon* see water.

*I think soon means within the next 500 postings....

roadracr

 

[WaywardSon]

Progress ~~

Painted the intake and output of the 2217s - black satin fusion (thin coats) ...