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View Full Version : My new 93 Gallon Starphire Rimless Cube Reef Build


letsdiscus
08-30-2013, 04:11 AM
Received my new 93 Gallon...

http://www.canreef.com/vbulletin/attachment.php?attachmentid=11782&d=1377835737

http://www.canreef.com/vbulletin/attachment.php?attachmentid=11783&stc=1&d=1378307349

http://www.canreef.com/vbulletin/attachment.php?attachmentid=11784&d=1377835737

thmh
08-30-2013, 04:32 AM
ooooo thats a sexy tank!!!:D

kien
08-30-2013, 04:44 AM
Nice. Tells us a little more about your plans :-). Maybe consider starting a build thread/journal? :-)

letsdiscus
08-30-2013, 04:49 AM
Thanks

letsdiscus
08-30-2013, 04:50 AM
Thanks Kien.. yep do plan to share my build on this thread..right now working on getting the stand ready then plumbing..

kien
08-30-2013, 04:52 AM
There's a build forum you should consider moving this thread to :-)

letsdiscus
08-30-2013, 02:15 PM
Not sure how to move this to another thread. Can u suggest the name of the build forum and how i can move this thread.

Thanks,

letsdiscus
08-30-2013, 03:22 PM
Received my new 93 Gallon...

Plan on components and equipment gathered do far...
-RLSS R6i Protein Skimmer
-Mitras LED
-55 Gallon Acrylic Sump
-Voyager 4 Sicce Powerheads (2 nos). Plan to add one Mp40 or MP 10 in future
-Aqua UV 15 w
-1 # 300 w Titanium heater (plan to add another one later for contingency)
- Tonga Rocks
- Sand (not too fine)
-PAN WORLD 100PX-X MAGNETIC WATER PUMP
- Titanium grounding probe
- Media Reactors (1 for carbon and 1 for Bio pellets/GFO) later down the road once the tank cycling is ready and stable.
-Spectrapure 180g/day RODI

Sump

http://www.canreef.com/vbulletin/attachment.php?attachmentid=11785&d=1377876103

Stand

http://www.canreef.com/vbulletin/attachment.php?attachmentid=11786&d=1377876103

Aqua Classic 15W UV

http://www.canreef.com/vbulletin/attachment.php?attachmentid=11787&d=1377876103

Skimmer

http://www.canreef.com/vbulletin/attachment.php?attachmentid=11788&d=1377876103

michika
08-30-2013, 04:28 PM
Not sure how to move this to another thread. Can u suggest the name of the build forum and how i can move this thread.

Thanks,

I think you can PM one of our friendly MODs to help you out.

letsdiscus
08-30-2013, 05:09 PM
Thanks Catherine. Just sent a PM.
Realized my limit for uploading images is also over. Will probably have to use Url from a photo share site..

reefwars
08-30-2013, 05:34 PM
this tank looks familiar :P

AdamsB
08-30-2013, 06:07 PM
Awesome! I was going to do a 93 marine land cube but the price was way out of my budget so I went standard 90. I'm looking forward to this unfolding. Definitely a fantastic looking tank :)

letsdiscus
08-30-2013, 10:29 PM
Thanks Adam..u bet, this one did't come cheap.. Cost me quite a dough. Had a Marineland cube previous same size with corner frames..somehow had some levelling issues with that tank after the first leak test.. Had to give it off cheap before getting this one..

letsdiscus
08-30-2013, 10:31 PM
Thanks "reef wars".. I belief it's made at your end.. :) from concepts aquarium..

reefwars
08-30-2013, 11:00 PM
Thanks "reef wars".. I belief it's made at your end.. :) from concepts aquarium..

thought so it looked familiar , nice cube cant wait to see how it ends up:)

letsdiscus
08-31-2013, 12:24 AM
RO unit installed...Spectrapure 180g/day
http://i1327.photobucket.com/albums/u676/letsdiscus/Reef%20IT/RODI_zpse2fc5546.jpg

letsdiscus
08-31-2013, 12:27 AM
1

letsdiscus
08-31-2013, 12:38 AM
Tank delivery-Awesome packing.

http://i1327.photobucket.com/albums/u676/letsdiscus/Reef%20IT/TankCarton_zpsf763c245.jpg (http://s1327.photobucket.com/user/letsdiscus/media/Reef%20IT/TankCarton_zpsf763c245.jpg.html)

letsdiscus
08-31-2013, 12:40 AM
http://i1327.photobucket.com/albums/u676/letsdiscus/Reef%20IT/TankCarton1_zps77eefd0c.jpg (http://s1327.photobucket.com/user/letsdiscus/media/Reef%20IT/TankCarton1_zps77eefd0c.jpg.html)

letsdiscus
08-31-2013, 12:43 AM
Had retained my stand from my previous Marineland tank. As this was open from the back earlier, I had to close the back and strengthen it with Oak. Also the height was increased by adding 4x4. Unfortunately dont have the pics of this as this was done earlier while the Tank order was being processed.
http://i1327.photobucket.com/albums/u676/letsdiscus/Reef%20IT/1b402ea3-1c05-4204-9148-ddd8e2b1c2db_zps25ce0615.jpg (http://s1327.photobucket.com/user/letsdiscus/media/Reef%20IT/1b402ea3-1c05-4204-9148-ddd8e2b1c2db_zps25ce0615.jpg.html)

letsdiscus
08-31-2013, 12:44 AM
http://i1327.photobucket.com/albums/u676/letsdiscus/Reef%20IT/20130802_210037_zpseb13fdcb.jpg (http://s1327.photobucket.com/user/letsdiscus/media/Reef%20IT/20130802_210037_zpseb13fdcb.jpg.html)

letsdiscus
09-04-2013, 02:58 AM
Bulkheads installed...Planning the Herbie flow method... 2 drains
1- 1.5" Master drain
2- 1" Emergency drain
3- 1 each 3/4" return line on either side of back glass

letsdiscus
09-04-2013, 03:17 AM
Bulkheads for Main drain and emergency drain (Herbie Flow)

3/4" 2 nos returns:

http://i1327.photobucket.com/albums/u676/letsdiscus/Reef%20IT/20130811_180035_zpsf1efccef.jpg (http://s1327.photobucket.com/user/letsdiscus/media/Reef%20IT/20130811_180035_zpsf1efccef.jpg.html)

http://i1327.photobucket.com/albums/u676/letsdiscus/Reef%20IT/20130811_114056_zps9e9e99ad.jpg (http://s1327.photobucket.com/user/letsdiscus/media/Reef%20IT/20130811_114056_zps9e9e99ad.jpg.html)

Herbie Overflow:

http://i1327.photobucket.com/albums/u676/letsdiscus/Reef%20IT/20130803_120157_zpsd7e02a74.jpg (http://s1327.photobucket.com/user/letsdiscus/media/Reef%20IT/20130803_120157_zpsd7e02a74.jpg.html)

Bulkheads:
Main drain- 1.5"
Emergency drain- 1"

http://i1327.photobucket.com/albums/u676/letsdiscus/Reef%20IT/20130802_214139_zps688e63ff.jpg (http://s1327.photobucket.com/user/letsdiscus/media/Reef%20IT/20130802_214139_zps688e63ff.jpg.html)

kien
09-04-2013, 04:27 AM
Wow, coming along nicely! No response from any mods about having this moved to the Build forums ?

letsdiscus
09-04-2013, 04:38 AM
Wow, coming along nicely! No response from any mods about having this moved to the Build forums ?
Thanks Kien. Still waiting for a reply.. Is this something I can do myself moving to the build forums? Will send one reminder against..

kien
09-04-2013, 01:12 PM
Thanks Kien. Still waiting for a reply.. Is this something I can do myself moving to the build forums? Will send one reminder against..

Only a mod can move your thread.

letsdiscus
09-05-2013, 04:44 AM
Guess the thread is finally moved.. I can update my build from here...:)

kien
09-05-2013, 04:48 AM
Guess the thread is finally moved.. I can update my build from here...:)

Indeed :-)

letsdiscus
09-09-2013, 11:59 PM
Finally decided to go ahead with Sump in Basement and have the plumbing going through the dry wall from the main level.. Below few pics of the work done these past few days..
Spaflex used for both Main and Emergency drains after the overflow box and Returns.

Main Drain
http://i1327.photobucket.com/albums/u676/letsdiscus/Reef%20IT/d20af522-b30e-45d2-9b00-c40f32b0eda9_zps3bd9732b.jpg (http://s1327.photobucket.com/user/letsdiscus/media/Reef%20IT/d20af522-b30e-45d2-9b00-c40f32b0eda9_zps3bd9732b.jpg.html)

Back view
http://i1327.photobucket.com/albums/u676/letsdiscus/Reef%20IT/20130813_221757_zps2333ffcb.jpg (http://s1327.photobucket.com/user/letsdiscus/media/Reef%20IT/20130813_221757_zps2333ffcb.jpg.html)

Gatevalve on Main drain
http://i1327.photobucket.com/albums/u676/letsdiscus/Reef%20IT/20130813_194542_zpsfabe3a40.jpg (http://s1327.photobucket.com/user/letsdiscus/media/Reef%20IT/20130813_194542_zpsfabe3a40.jpg.html)

Not to forget the GFCI install
http://i1327.photobucket.com/albums/u676/letsdiscus/Reef%20IT/20130730_151607_zps1615bbab.jpg (http://s1327.photobucket.com/user/letsdiscus/media/Reef%20IT/20130730_151607_zps1615bbab.jpg.html)

Drains Closeup
http://i1327.photobucket.com/albums/u676/letsdiscus/Reef%20IT/20130723_093126_zpsce4b8f2e.jpg (http://s1327.photobucket.com/user/letsdiscus/media/Reef%20IT/20130723_093126_zpsce4b8f2e.jpg.html)

Basement connection..
http://i1327.photobucket.com/albums/u676/letsdiscus/Reef%20IT/20130722_212340_zpse5ea60f9.jpg (http://s1327.photobucket.com/user/letsdiscus/media/Reef%20IT/20130722_212340_zpse5ea60f9.jpg.html)

Spaflex.. loads of em...
http://i1327.photobucket.com/albums/u676/letsdiscus/Reef%20IT/20130722_185241_zps414effcb.jpg (http://s1327.photobucket.com/user/letsdiscus/media/Reef%20IT/20130722_185241_zps414effcb.jpg.html)


Please do post your feedback on what you think...Thanks

ataller
09-10-2013, 01:43 AM
Hello there.

I am not an expert by any means, however, I might be able to save you a head ache though.

I have a very similar setup as you do. Herbie to a basement sump. If you would like I could probably find some pictures.

I see that your gate valve is display side, not sump side.

You will find that you get noisy cavitation by having the gate valve at the top. You should plumb in the gate valve as close to the water line in the sump as possible. That way the entire drain will be full of water until the end. It is easier to push the air bubble out of the drain that way.

If anyone disagrees please post, I would hate to steer him wrong. This was however, my experience in the past with my tank.

Adam

letsdiscus
09-10-2013, 03:12 PM
Hello there.

I am not an expert by any means, however, I might be able to save you a head ache though.

I have a very similar setup as you do. Herbie to a basement sump. If you would like I could probably find some pictures.

I see that your gate valve is display side, not sump side.

You will find that you get noisy cavitation by having the gate valve at the top. You should plumb in the gate valve as close to the water line in the sump as possible. That way the entire drain will be full of water until the end. It is easier to push the air bubble out of the drain that way.

If anyone disagrees please post, I would hate to steer him wrong. This was however, my experience in the past with my tank.

Adam
Thanks Adam. Unfortunately i have glued the ball valve already and there is no room to cut the PVC and join it back with Union. Will wait to see how i can control the flow/noise once i start the leak test.

Many thanks for your inputs. Would appreciate if you can share your setup pics as well.

Seriak
09-10-2013, 03:59 PM
You could always just add another one in the basement and leave the top one wide open, if it becomes a problem.

letsdiscus
09-10-2013, 06:55 PM
You could always just add another one in the basement and leave the top one wide open, if it becomes a problem.
Thanks Seriak.. I guess I will keep this option open for now once i test the plumbing with water..

letsdiscus
09-10-2013, 08:50 PM
Got some more work done lately.. My current stand is from the old Marineland 90 Gallon cube. The stand was open from the back and was lower for the earlier plan of having the sump under it.

Had to add 4x4's on the base to increase the height and sealed off the back with added 2x4's solid Oak.

Stand view from back-
http://i1327.photobucket.com/albums/u676/letsdiscus/Reef%20IT/1b402ea3-1c05-4204-9148-ddd8e2b1c2db_zps25ce0615.jpg (http://s1327.photobucket.com/user/letsdiscus/media/Reef%20IT/1b402ea3-1c05-4204-9148-ddd8e2b1c2db_zps25ce0615.jpg.html)

http://i1327.photobucket.com/albums/u676/letsdiscus/Reef%20IT/20130722_184928_zpse7a8dd3b.jpg (http://s1327.photobucket.com/user/letsdiscus/media/Reef%20IT/20130722_184928_zpse7a8dd3b.jpg.html)

My upcomming Bar in the making-

http://i1327.photobucket.com/albums/u676/letsdiscus/Reef%20IT/20130721_191202_zpsc1e2ddb1.jpg (http://s1327.photobucket.com/user/letsdiscus/media/Reef%20IT/20130721_191202_zpsc1e2ddb1.jpg.html)

Oak finish trim for the 4x4's on the stand base
http://i1327.photobucket.com/albums/u676/letsdiscus/Reef%20IT/20130723_204206_zps1c142cca.jpg (http://s1327.photobucket.com/user/letsdiscus/media/Reef%20IT/20130723_204206_zps1c142cca.jpg.html)

Front view
http://i1327.photobucket.com/albums/u676/letsdiscus/Reef%20IT/20130802_223215_zps8ec1be6c.jpg (http://s1327.photobucket.com/user/letsdiscus/media/Reef%20IT/20130802_223215_zps8ec1be6c.jpg.html)

Top view
http://i1327.photobucket.com/albums/u676/letsdiscus/Reef%20IT/20130802_223353_zpsaf21e804.jpg (http://s1327.photobucket.com/user/letsdiscus/media/Reef%20IT/20130802_223353_zpsaf21e804.jpg.html)

Complete-front view
http://i1327.photobucket.com/albums/u676/letsdiscus/Reef%20IT/20130819_231039_zps29876850.jpg (http://s1327.photobucket.com/user/letsdiscus/media/Reef%20IT/20130819_231039_zps29876850.jpg.html)

madchild
09-10-2013, 09:17 PM
Very cool idea!!!!!

letsdiscus
09-10-2013, 09:24 PM
Very cool idea!!!!!
Thanks. Can't wait for the setup to be ready so i can start enjoying my drinks sitting next to it..:)

letsdiscus
09-15-2013, 06:34 PM
Managed to get the LED lights fitting done this weekend..

Had my GHL Mitras LED delivered a few weeks back....Had to take sometime to run around different hardware stores to hunt for the compatible hanging screw which would fit in the supplied GHL hanging bolt.

The size is Metric 0.6mm.

I was not able to find a Dowel hanging screw which would have been ideal to fit one end(Metric size) in the supplied hanging bolt and the other end(wooden screw threads) into the studs through the dry wall ceiling.

Reviewed few threads on GHL Mitras forum to get some ideas, also reached out to Michael (Aqua Digital) to check if GHL could supply the compatible Dowel screw. Finally decided to place a wood strip in between the Ceiling Dry wall and the Studs. Materials used..

1. 2x2 Solid Oak strip from HD (Roughly $7/- )
2. 2 nos. M6x25 Nuts(screws) -(BIN # 3095 in HD) ($0.49/- each)

Pictures...

Mitras Unpacking
http://i1327.photobucket.com/albums/u676/letsdiscus/MitrasLED-Unpacking_zps391606ac.jpg (http://s1327.photobucket.com/user/letsdiscus/media/MitrasLED-Unpacking_zps391606ac.jpg.html)

http://i1327.photobucket.com/albums/u676/letsdiscus/MitrasLED-Unpacking1_zpsf9bc051e.jpg (http://s1327.photobucket.com/user/letsdiscus/media/MitrasLED-Unpacking1_zpsf9bc051e.jpg.html)

Hanging Assembly-
http://i1327.photobucket.com/albums/u676/letsdiscus/LEDHangingFitting2_zps23214546.jpg (http://s1327.photobucket.com/user/letsdiscus/media/LEDHangingFitting2_zps23214546.jpg.html)

http://i1327.photobucket.com/albums/u676/letsdiscus/LEDHangingFitting1_zps59785d2c.jpg (http://s1327.photobucket.com/user/letsdiscus/media/LEDHangingFitting1_zps59785d2c.jpg.html)

Final Product-
http://i1327.photobucket.com/albums/u676/letsdiscus/LEDHanging1_zpsa04b7154.jpg (http://s1327.photobucket.com/user/letsdiscus/media/LEDHanging1_zpsa04b7154.jpg.html)

http://i1327.photobucket.com/albums/u676/letsdiscus/LEDHanging_zps9f7248dc.jpg (http://s1327.photobucket.com/user/letsdiscus/media/LEDHanging_zps9f7248dc.jpg.html)

Scythanith
09-15-2013, 10:43 PM
Looks great! Are you going to snip the excess cable or just roll it up? I have been debating snipping mine but no one see's it in the fish room but me. Still bugs me though.

letsdiscus
09-16-2013, 12:49 AM
Thanks for your feedback.. At the moment not decided to snip the cable..Will probably do once I have the full setup running but wud try to leave some extra length just in case..

letsdiscus
09-24-2013, 03:33 PM
Re-attaching the pictures.
Managed to get the LED lights fitting done this weekend..

Had my GHL Mitras LED delivered a few weeks back....Had to take sometime to run around different hardware stores to hunt for the compatible hanging screw which would fit in the supplied GHL hanging bolt.

The size is Metric 0.6mm.

I was not able to find a Dowel hanging screw which would have been ideal to fit one end(Metric size) in the supplied hanging bolt and the other end(wooden screw threads) into the studs through the dry wall ceiling.

Reviewed few threads on GHL Mitras forum to get some ideas, also reached out to Michael (Aqua Digital) to check if GHL could supply the compatible Dowel screw. Finally decided to place a wood strip in between the Ceiling Dry wall and the Studs. Materials used..

1. 2x2 Solid Oak strip from HD (Roughly $7/- )
2. 2 nos. M6x25 Nuts(screws) -(BIN # 3095 in HD) ($0.49/- each)

Pictures...

Mitras Unpacking
http://i1327.photobucket.com/albums/u676/letsdiscus/Reef%20IT/MitrasLED-Unpacking1_zpsf9bc051e.jpg (http://s1327.photobucket.com/user/letsdiscus/media/Reef%20IT/MitrasLED-Unpacking1_zpsf9bc051e.jpg.html)

http://i1327.photobucket.com/albums/u676/letsdiscus/Reef%20IT/MitrasLED-Unpacking_zps391606ac.jpg (http://s1327.photobucket.com/user/letsdiscus/media/Reef%20IT/MitrasLED-Unpacking_zps391606ac.jpg.html)

Hanging Assembly-
http://i1327.photobucket.com/albums/u676/letsdiscus/Reef%20IT/LEDHangingFitting2_zps23214546.jpg (http://s1327.photobucket.com/user/letsdiscus/media/Reef%20IT/LEDHangingFitting2_zps23214546.jpg.html)

http://i1327.photobucket.com/albums/u676/letsdiscus/Reef%20IT/LEDHangingFitting1_zps59785d2c.jpg (http://s1327.photobucket.com/user/letsdiscus/media/Reef%20IT/LEDHangingFitting1_zps59785d2c.jpg.html)

Final Product-
http://i1327.photobucket.com/albums/u676/letsdiscus/Reef%20IT/LEDHangingFitting_zps1baf4a59.jpg (http://s1327.photobucket.com/user/letsdiscus/media/Reef%20IT/LEDHangingFitting_zps1baf4a59.jpg.html)

http://i1327.photobucket.com/albums/u676/letsdiscus/Reef%20IT/LEDHanging1_zpsa04b7154.jpg (http://s1327.photobucket.com/user/letsdiscus/media/Reef%20IT/LEDHanging1_zpsa04b7154.jpg.html)

http://i1327.photobucket.com/albums/u676/letsdiscus/Reef%20IT/LEDHanging_zps9f7248dc.jpg (http://s1327.photobucket.com/user/letsdiscus/media/Reef%20IT/LEDHanging_zps9f7248dc.jpg.html)

letsdiscus
09-24-2013, 03:50 PM
Had been away few weeks from the forum. was trying to complete the Basement plumbing and Sump setup along with leak test. Had a few disasters along the way with my DIY skills..
Story told in pictures below..

Stand for the Sump. Re-using the Carton in which the Tank was delivered to make for the Sump Stand.

http://i1327.photobucket.com/albums/u676/letsdiscus/Reef%20IT/SumpStand_zps1a85e236.jpg (http://s1327.photobucket.com/user/letsdiscus/media/Reef%20IT/SumpStand_zps1a85e236.jpg.html)

My 55 Gallon Acrylic Sump
http://i1327.photobucket.com/albums/u676/letsdiscus/Reef%20IT/Sump_zps03d61181.jpg (http://s1327.photobucket.com/user/letsdiscus/media/Reef%20IT/Sump_zps03d61181.jpg.html)

Tonga Rocks- These will be the life in the Reef
http://i1327.photobucket.com/albums/u676/letsdiscus/Reef%20IT/Tonga_zps1f31610b.jpg (http://s1327.photobucket.com/user/letsdiscus/media/Reef%20IT/Tonga_zps1f31610b.jpg.html)

Levelling- Ensured the level was perfect before the leak test
http://i1327.photobucket.com/albums/u676/letsdiscus/Reef%20IT/20130811_162203_zps01c3a14f.jpg (http://s1327.photobucket.com/user/letsdiscus/media/Reef%20IT/20130811_162203_zps01c3a14f.jpg.html)

Sump Setup-Basement
http://i1327.photobucket.com/albums/u676/letsdiscus/Reef%20IT/20130902_193529_zps7d0fc2f1.jpg (http://s1327.photobucket.com/user/letsdiscus/media/Reef%20IT/20130902_193529_zps7d0fc2f1.jpg.html)


With the UV and Return Pump
http://i1327.photobucket.com/albums/u676/letsdiscus/Reef%20IT/20130902_193548_zps295a6832.jpg (http://s1327.photobucket.com/user/letsdiscus/media/Reef%20IT/20130902_193548_zps295a6832.jpg.html)

Had a small goof up while drilling the sump. My drill bit gave up on me while half way in the drilling process. Since the acrylic was too hot..it developed these cracks. Luckily they were from inside and had tested for leaks for a few days. Also got the sump checked from ORG from where i had bought it. They confirmed its good to go. Phew...

Disaster averted....

http://i1327.photobucket.com/albums/u676/letsdiscus/Reef%20IT/sumphole_zps8e0d99c9.jpg (http://s1327.photobucket.com/user/letsdiscus/media/Reef%20IT/sumphole_zps8e0d99c9.jpg.html)


PS- Please do post your feedback -ve or +ve if you like this build thread..

Scythanith
09-24-2013, 07:02 PM
My only suggestion would be check the stats on how close you can have a 90 degree bend on the intake side. I might have use a couple 45's on the output side as well. I've always wondered if the resistance of 2 45 degree elbows equals that of 1 90 degree elbow.

Cheers,
Scott

WarDog
09-24-2013, 07:27 PM
http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3750/9921199603_18eb99b5d0_o.png

letsdiscus
09-27-2013, 03:33 AM
Completed the Leak test followed by aquascaping..
http://i1327.photobucket.com/albums/u676/letsdiscus/Reef%20IT/LeakTest_zpsf65313a4.jpg (http://s1327.photobucket.com/user/letsdiscus/media/Reef%20IT/LeakTest_zpsf65313a4.jpg.html)

http://i1327.photobucket.com/albums/u676/letsdiscus/LeakTest3_zpsfcae603c.jpg (http://s1327.photobucket.com/user/letsdiscus/media/LeakTest3_zpsfcae603c.jpg.html)

http://i1327.photobucket.com/albums/u676/letsdiscus/Aquascaping2_zps469f0f7b.jpg (http://s1327.photobucket.com/user/letsdiscus/media/Aquascaping2_zps469f0f7b.jpg.html)

http://i1327.photobucket.com/albums/u676/letsdiscus/Aquascaping1_zps1649d096.jpg (http://s1327.photobucket.com/user/letsdiscus/media/Aquascaping1_zps1649d096.jpg.html)

http://i1327.photobucket.com/albums/u676/letsdiscus/Aquascaping_zpsc7383a07.jpg (http://s1327.photobucket.com/user/letsdiscus/media/Aquascaping_zpsc7383a07.jpg.html)

http://i1327.photobucket.com/albums/u676/letsdiscus/Aquascaping3_zpse3833ed6.jpg (http://s1327.photobucket.com/user/letsdiscus/media/Aquascaping3_zpse3833ed6.jpg.html)

and in goes Salt water..

letsdiscus
10-08-2013, 03:35 AM
http://i1327.photobucket.com/albums/u676/letsdiscus/Reef%20IT/LeakTest4_zps2b41e582.jpg (http://s1327.photobucket.com/user/letsdiscus/media/Reef%20IT/LeakTest4_zps2b41e582.jpg.html)

http://i1327.photobucket.com/albums/u676/letsdiscus/Reef%20IT/LeakTest3_zpsfcae603c.jpg (http://s1327.photobucket.com/user/letsdiscus/media/Reef%20IT/LeakTest3_zpsfcae603c.jpg.html)

Tonga Rocks
http://i1327.photobucket.com/albums/u676/letsdiscus/Reef%20IT/Aquascaping6_zps46625897.jpg (http://s1327.photobucket.com/user/letsdiscus/media/Reef%20IT/Aquascaping6_zps46625897.jpg.html)

http://i1327.photobucket.com/albums/u676/letsdiscus/Reef%20IT/Aquascaping5_zps1b0fa194.jpg (http://s1327.photobucket.com/user/letsdiscus/media/Reef%20IT/Aquascaping5_zps1b0fa194.jpg.html)

http://i1327.photobucket.com/albums/u676/letsdiscus/Reef%20IT/Aquascaping2_zps469f0f7b.jpg (http://s1327.photobucket.com/user/letsdiscus/media/Reef%20IT/Aquascaping2_zps469f0f7b.jpg.html)

http://i1327.photobucket.com/albums/u676/letsdiscus/Reef%20IT/Aquascaping1_zps1649d096.jpg (http://s1327.photobucket.com/user/letsdiscus/media/Reef%20IT/Aquascaping1_zps1649d096.jpg.html)

http://i1327.photobucket.com/albums/u676/letsdiscus/Reef%20IT/Aquascaping_zpsc7383a07.jpg (http://s1327.photobucket.com/user/letsdiscus/media/Reef%20IT/Aquascaping_zpsc7383a07.jpg.html)

http://i1327.photobucket.com/albums/u676/letsdiscus/Reef%20IT/LeakTest2_zps8114d924.jpg (http://s1327.photobucket.com/user/letsdiscus/media/Reef%20IT/LeakTest2_zps8114d924.jpg.html)

letsdiscus
10-08-2013, 03:46 AM
Had been away few days hence could not do any posts.. My tank is finally ready for the cycling.. Over 135 gallons of RO water including Sump was being prepared few days back..

http://i1327.photobucket.com/albums/u676/letsdiscus/20130929_164649_zps00635cec.jpg (http://s1327.photobucket.com/user/letsdiscus/media/20130929_164649_zps00635cec.jpg.html)

Trevor W
10-08-2013, 05:28 AM
Great looking tank! That rock is very nice and your placement is awesome. I am looking forward to watching this evolve.

letsdiscus
10-08-2013, 11:04 AM
Great looking tank! That rock is very nice and your placement is awesome. I am looking forward to watching this evolve.
Thanks Trevor. Not sure how the orientation got messed in the picture...

letsdiscus
10-08-2013, 11:05 AM
http://i1327.photobucket.com/albums/u676/letsdiscus/20130929_164649_zps00635cec.jpg (http://s1327.photobucket.com/user/letsdiscus/media/20130929_164649_zps00635cec.jpg.html)

letsdiscus
10-12-2013, 11:11 PM
its been the end of 2 weeks since the cycle started.. Have seen no significant changes except a few coraline algae growing on the rock..

-My light intensity is quite low. Any suggestions what is the ideal intensity and how many hours in a day during the cycling stage..

- Also noticed the PH reading from the American Pinpoint shows 7.9 and fluctuates 7.91-7.95... Have been opening the fish room window during the day for air circulation.. Is this ok for now till the cycling is complete.. How do I get to raise it to 8 and above??

Btw have been adjusting positions of my 2 Siccee Voyager 4 powerheads in the tank.. as they are stirring up lot of sand from the front glass..

Madreefer
10-13-2013, 01:39 AM
Looking good
I wouldn't worry about your ph level at all. It's fine where it is.

letsdiscus
10-13-2013, 02:23 AM
Looking good
I wouldn't worry about your ph level at all. It's fine where it is.

Thanks..I'm pretty much not doing anything at this point till the cyling is done. However did notice the evaporation is pretty quick.. Have a 5 gallon glass jar next to the sump in the basement and I do notice it gets empty upto 70percent daily.

letsdiscus
11-08-2013, 08:51 PM
Have finally had the cycling complete. Water parameters were consistent past 15 days with Ammonia varying between 2-5ppm
Nitrates 0ppm
Nitrites 0ppm
Ph is ranging between 7.8 - 7.9. I have seen a drop from 8.1 . I suspect this is due to the CO2 levels in the basement. Difficult to keep the windows open now with Winter set in. Will monitor a bit more.2

Also i'm not sure if I was supposed to get any algae spike.. I have not got anything so far.. My rocks were being cycled for over 2 months in the bath tub before the Tank setup was done.

Had my first Clown fish move to their new home last weekend.. pics below..

http://i1327.photobucket.com/albums/u676/letsdiscus/Reef%20IT/20131103_084902_zps8891ba98.jpg (http://s1327.photobucket.com/user/letsdiscus/media/Reef%20IT/20131103_084902_zps8891ba98.jpg.html)

http://i1327.photobucket.com/albums/u676/letsdiscus/Reef%20IT/20131103_084915_zpse0ff469f.jpg (http://s1327.photobucket.com/user/letsdiscus/media/Reef%20IT/20131103_084915_zpse0ff469f.jpg.html)

http://i1327.photobucket.com/albums/u676/letsdiscus/Reef%20IT/20131103_084906_zps20a7ba9f.jpg (http://s1327.photobucket.com/user/letsdiscus/media/Reef%20IT/20131103_084906_zps20a7ba9f.jpg.html)

lastlight
11-08-2013, 08:54 PM
i like your rock scape nicely done.

George
11-08-2013, 09:05 PM
Have finally had the cycling complete. Water parameters were consistent past 15 days with Ammonia varying between 2-5ppm

You tank has not cycled properly yet. Ammonia of 2-5ppm is toxic to marine fish. Wait until you have ammonia down to 0 before adding any live stock.

lastlight
11-08-2013, 09:18 PM
^ i should learn to read better. what he said!

letsdiscus
11-08-2013, 11:57 PM
i like your rock scape nicely done.
Thanks Brett

letsdiscus
11-09-2013, 12:01 AM
You tank has not cycled properly yet. Ammonia of 2-5ppm is toxic to marine fish. Wait until you have ammonia down to 0 before adding any live stock.
Thanks George for the feedback. Actually im assuming 2-5ppm even though I'm sure it's almost 0ppm as the Adonis are thru the API test kits. I have to get some better test kits in future as API's can get tricky to pin point exact color match. There is no in between below 25ppm to 0ppm for Ammonia tests in an API kit.

letsdiscus
11-09-2013, 12:02 AM
^ i should learn to read better. what he said!
Sorry Brett. Didn't quite understand your reply to this quote. Thanks

letsdiscus
11-09-2013, 04:23 AM
I have been reading different opinions on this subject. Wud much appreciate any help on which one would be better to begin with.. Find 2 part dosing pretty easy to use but guess would be costly in long run.. For now, I'm planning to get the ALk and PH stable before I start planning on Corals.. Will be going mostly for softies to begin with..

So was trying to zero down whether to buy Kalkwasser and make the solution or buy the 2 part dosing and dose manually till I collect funds for the auto dosing pump.

lastlight
11-09-2013, 06:02 AM
Sorry Brett. Didn't quite understand your reply to this quote. Thanks

Was just agreeing about the ammonia readings potentially being a problem. Never noticed that when I read your post. If the kit is lousy who knows your levels just might be zero. With Elos a zero reading was pretty obvious.

letsdiscus
11-09-2013, 01:52 PM
I agree with the API kits the readings are not the greatest.. Will keep a close watch on the parameters till im able to purchase better quality Test kits

letsdiscus
11-29-2013, 12:21 PM
Added some more fishes ( Chromis, Yello Tang, Bangai Cardinals and a pink Anthia along with my first Torch coral and a Leather)

http://i1327.photobucket.com/albums/u676/letsdiscus/20131127_115202_zps1e31f849.jpg (http://s1327.photobucket.com/user/letsdiscus/media/20131127_115202_zps1e31f849.jpg.html)

Leather Coral (Not sure what its name)
http://i1327.photobucket.com/albums/u676/letsdiscus/20131127_115223_zpsac9c5a39.jpg (http://s1327.photobucket.com/user/letsdiscus/media/20131127_115223_zpsac9c5a39.jpg.html)

Torch
http://i1327.photobucket.com/albums/u676/letsdiscus/20131127_115213_zps8231e67f.jpg (http://s1327.photobucket.com/user/letsdiscus/media/20131127_115213_zps8231e67f.jpg.html)

http://i1327.photobucket.com/albums/u676/letsdiscus/20131127_115317_zps7465b5b4.jpg (http://s1327.photobucket.com/user/letsdiscus/media/20131127_115317_zps7465b5b4.jpg.html)

letsdiscus
12-03-2013, 08:21 PM
Have been having some bad times this week. firstly lost my New Torch coral frag 2 days back due to "Brown jelly". wonder what went wrong. He was a happy coral for few days since i bought him until last weekend :cry:

Further this morning found one of my "Blue-Green Chromis" on the floor dead. Not sure what made him pop out from the tank last nite.

As if above was not enough, my pink Anthia(one of my favourites)..i found him on the floor dead too this evening after i came back home...im bleeding now for this loss. he was my favourite one and a unique type i managed to get hold off.

have covered my tank now with the window screens. will have to make something that fits my tank well..

don't know what more to say.. just leaving my frustrations in words here on this forum...

letsdiscus
12-30-2013, 04:30 PM
Ok.. so after loosing my first Blue-green Chromis and and beautiful Anthia, landed up building my DIY Screen protector.. All tools bought from CT(Canadian Tire) including the Screen which is 1/2" in holes.

Pictures..
http://i1327.photobucket.com/albums/u676/letsdiscus/Reef%20IT/20131230_115819_resized_1_zpsa5341fe0.jpg (http://s1327.photobucket.com/user/letsdiscus/media/Reef%20IT/20131230_115819_resized_1_zpsa5341fe0.jpg.html)

http://i1327.photobucket.com/albums/u676/letsdiscus/Reef%20IT/20131230_115854_resized_zps47e0581a.jpg (http://s1327.photobucket.com/user/letsdiscus/media/Reef%20IT/20131230_115854_resized_zps47e0581a.jpg.html)

http://i1327.photobucket.com/albums/u676/letsdiscus/Reef%20IT/20131230_115833_resized_zps85be4430.jpg (http://s1327.photobucket.com/user/letsdiscus/media/Reef%20IT/20131230_115833_resized_zps85be4430.jpg.html)

letsdiscus
12-30-2013, 04:34 PM
With my first leather coral doing great so far, mustered up some courage to pick up my next Coral in the tank. This time, went for the green mushroom. Love them under the LEDs.

http://i1327.photobucket.com/albums/u676/letsdiscus/Reef%20IT/20131230_120020_resized_zpsa594ccb2.jpg (http://s1327.photobucket.com/user/letsdiscus/media/Reef%20IT/20131230_120020_resized_zpsa594ccb2.jpg.html)

http://i1327.photobucket.com/albums/u676/letsdiscus/Reef%20IT/20131230_115921_resized_zps32a67620.jpg (http://s1327.photobucket.com/user/letsdiscus/media/Reef%20IT/20131230_115921_resized_zps32a67620.jpg.html)

My first Leather Coral so far..
http://i1327.photobucket.com/albums/u676/letsdiscus/Reef%20IT/20131230_120036_resized_zps6093fbf5.jpg (http://s1327.photobucket.com/user/letsdiscus/media/Reef%20IT/20131230_120036_resized_zps6093fbf5.jpg.html)

letsdiscus
12-30-2013, 04:36 PM
Here's the pic of my tank so far after 1.5 months of adding my first fish (Clowns)

http://i1327.photobucket.com/albums/u676/letsdiscus/Reef%20IT/20131230_120223_zpsc7317030.jpg (http://s1327.photobucket.com/user/letsdiscus/media/Reef%20IT/20131230_120223_zpsc7317030.jpg.html)