Need Advice on New Tank Setup

[Darrel]

Let me begin with an introduction,

My name is Darrel and I live in southern Louisiana. While I may be new to the marine aspects of aquatics, I have successfully built, maintained and enjoyed tropical freshwater tanks and koi ponds.

Currently I have a 30 gallon community tank and a 2000 gallon koi pond, both active and healthy.

I have long wanted to venture into the marine side, and finally decided to take the plunge if you will.

I am currently researching all aspects of a successful reef tank, as with anything knowledge is power, but experience is best, so that is what compels me to make this post.

Due to space and budget constraints, I have decided that a 55gal. Main tank and a 29/30 gal. sump/refugium will be set up.
The sump will be located in the display cabinet. Live rock and live sand will be utilized to the fullest.

I have several concerns as to equipment sizes and brands. And although I do trust the owner of the local shop (been dealing with him for years), he is indeed still a business owner and the only one in town. So that poses a mild dilemma.

In regards to skimmers, what brands would you recommend as well as sizes for the above capacity? Also what styles (spray induction, counter flow, etc.)? This even takes precedence over lighting at this time for me.

Next would but lighting, I am currently leaning towards T5 vho due to heat issues with the ballast, also due to the fact that I will custom build the display cabinet an am unsure of the hood design at this point.

Any and all advice and opinions would be greatly appreciated, even contradictory arguments, as this is still in the learning / research phase of the project and is still capable of being changed.

Thanks,
Darrel

[an411]

You should be ok with the T5 lighting. especially if you are worried about heat issues I believe the t5 is the way to go. As far as skimmers get one that is rated higher then the tank volume because the specs that they normally give for there skimmer are usually higher then what they typically can handle. As far as brands go for skimmers get the best one that you can afford. I personally have a euroreef and I dont think that I would ever really go with another brand. I like the way it performs and I have had no issues since day 1. The one thing that I highly recommend is to have you r display tank drilled if not done so already.

[ckprax]

There are many good brands of skimmers, from what i hear, you get what you pay for and you should look into one that is rated for at least twice your total volume. I also second drilling the tank if it isn't already. And T5 would be great.

[Darrel]

Just to clarify, the display tank will be drilled if I cannot find one that is reef ready that I like.

[Darrel]

Any other advise?

[Deb91]

Darrel,
Did you have a chance to read, New to RC look here for answers. There is so much great information on there about setting up a new tank!

[welcome]

[Darrel]

Thanks Deb,

Yes I have been reading away every spare minute, just wanted to see a cross section of popular opnion.