Future 50 gal plans...

[OneArmedBandit]

I’m currently in the process of cycling my first tank (20 gal.) and am already thoroughly addicted to the hobby of reef keeping (go figure…). I’ve been researching the hobby for quite some time and am very happy with my decision to get a tank started.

I originally had future plans for a tank setup in the range of 120 gal but have recently scaled that back to 50 gal mainly based on space/ equipment but don’t really think I’m compromising in any way.

My current “future project” includes a 50 gal. tank (36x18x17 tall)with a 30 to 40 gal sump/ fuge. This setup will be in my family room so quiet operation is key. I will be building a stand/ cabinet against a wall that will house the entire system. I will be running all of the electrical on dedicated circuits and am planning on running plumbing to allow quick and easy water changes also.

I need suggestions on the following items:

Return pump: quiet & reliable
Skimmer: ASM, Euro-reef, Octopus… Opinions?
Canister filter: Still need a filter with a ‘fuge right? Brand opinions?
Power heads: How many? Brand recommendation?

Anything else I’m missing?

I appreciate any feedback you all can provide. -Steve

[siwelk]

Originally posted by OneArmedBandit
I’m currently in the process of cycling my first tank (20 gal.) and am already thoroughly addicted to the hobby of reef keeping (go figure…). I’ve been researching the hobby for quite some time and am very happy with my decision to get a tank started.

I originally had future plans for a tank setup in the range of 120 gal but have recently scaled that back to 50 gal mainly based on space/ equipment but don’t really think I’m compromising in any way.

My current “future project” includes a 50 gal. tank (36x18x17 tall)with a 30 to 40 gal sump/ fuge. This setup will be in my family room so quiet operation is key. I will be building a stand/ cabinet against a wall that will house the entire system. I will be running all of the electrical on dedicated circuits and am planning on running plumbing to allow quick and easy water changes also.

I need suggestions on the following items:

Return pump: quiet & reliable
Skimmer: ASM, Euro-reef, Octopus… Opinions?
Canister filter: Still need a filter with a ‘fuge right? Brand opinions?
Power heads: How many? Brand recommendation?

Anything else I’m missing?

I appreciate any feedback you all can provide. -Steve

return - Ehiem 1262
skimmer - EuroReef RS-80
phs - 2x koralia 3s



really depends one what youre planning on keeping. this will make a difference when selecting equipment. i think the above is a good general setup for that size tank.