thinking bout jumping in......

[smbjedi]

I got a great deal on a 75 gallon tank and are seriously considering trying my hand at saltwater. The tank has a sump, bio balls(?),hang on filter thing, and some power heads. I dont really know where to start. Can you guys help me build a list of things that I need, and some general startup advice. I have had freshwater tanks for a long time and currently are keeping discus (and a few other tanks). I dont really need advice on cycling. Thanks in advance.

ps im going to paint that ugly stand!!!

 

[Robert04]

I don't have any advice.. other than thats freakin awesome dude. and will make a nice setup.

 

[smbjedi]

thanks, the best part was that it only cost me a hundred bucks!

 

[ChrisK]

Been thinking very hard to turn on of my empty 55's to a salty tank too just need wifes blessing :lol:

 

[TropicalNorth]

I would run a freshwater test first just make sure the sump plumbing doesn't leak etc.

My next step would then be to buy some sand and any equipment I need and run everything with just sand and saltwater in the tank. This gives you a chance to work out any problems and see if the water parameters (like salinity, KH, ph) are remaining stable. Basically this gives you some time to get your head around saltwater testing and any equipment issues that may arise.

What are your plans for the tank (FOWLR, Reef)?

Probably the biggest things to look into would be a good size skimmer and lighting.
If you don't want corals a couple of T5HO tubes running the length of the tank would do the trick. If the sump is large enough I would get an in-sump skimmer, the best brand and largest you can afford.

Another thing you will need is a refractometer, you could get a hydrometer but refractometers are much more accurate.

 

[jayghmi]

If you can keep discus you can keep salt. Go slow - the building is the real fun! If you turn into a live rock addict, like I did, you don't need the bio balls, hang on filter or anything other than a good skimmer and lights.

Maybe I will start a thread so I can get thrashed on, but I have successfully used a hydrometer for years now - most say you need an accurate refractometers - I say you do not. Most I believe don't use hydrometers correctly, but that is not the concern of your thread.

Build slowly and enjoy! If I did it over again I would wait at least 3 months before putting in fish, just to enjoy the explosion of life that comes from good live rock.