WarDog's Tank Thread : Episodic Trial And Error

[WarDog]

Episode I : The Phantom Valonia

Stand (http://www.canreef.com/vbulletin/showthread.php?t=97779&page=3)
Stand and Sump (http://www.canreef.com/vbulletin/showthread.php?t=97779&page=4)
Plumbing (http://www.canreef.com/vbulletin/showthread.php?t=97779&page=6)
DIY ATO (http://www.canreef.com/vbulletin/showthread.php?t=97779&page=8)
Electrical (http://www.canreef.com/vbulletin/showthread.php?t=97779&page=10)
Bleaching Rock and LED Utility Light (http://www.canreef.com/vbulletin/showthread.php?t=97779&page=11)
Leak Test (http://www.canreef.com/vbulletin/showthread.php?t=97779&page=12)
Wire Management (http://www.canreef.com/vbulletin/showthread.php?t=97779&page=14)
Libra Doser and OCD Sump (http://www.canreef.com/vbulletin/showthread.php?t=97779&page=18)
Dry Rock Structures (http://www.canreef.com/vbulletin/showthread.php?t=97779&page=21)
Final Rockscape (http://www.canreef.com/vbulletin/showthread.php?t=97779&page=24)
Cycle and Diatoms (http://www.canreef.com/vbulletin/showthread.php?t=97779&page=27)
First Coral (http://www.canreef.com/vbulletin/showthread.php?t=97779&page=29)
Failed First W/C (http://www.canreef.com/vbulletin/showthread.php?t=97779&page=30)
DIY a Real Water Change Station! (http://www.canreef.com/vbulletin/showthread.php?t=97779&page=33)
Frag Additions (http://www.canreef.com/vbulletin/showthread.php?t=97779&page=39)
Skimmer Swap (http://www.canreef.com/vbulletin/showthread.php?t=97779&page=41)
ICK! (http://www.canreef.com/vbulletin/showthread.php?t=97779&page=44)
6 Months Old & Mount Frags (http://www.canreef.com/vbulletin/showthread.php?t=97779&page=51)
Start Of Bubble Algae Epidemic (http://www.canreef.com/vbulletin/showthread.php?t=97779&page=52)
Coral Illuminati Frag Deal (http://www.canreef.com/vbulletin/showthread.php?t=97779&page=54)
Switch To T5's (http://www.canreef.com/vbulletin/showthread.php?t=97779&page=56)
Screen Top, Monti Eating Nudi's, Possibly The Best Pictures (http://www.canreef.com/vbulletin/showthread.php?t=97779&page=58)
End Of Tank (http://www.canreef.com/vbulletin/showthread.php?t=97779&page=59)

Episode II : Attack Of The Aiptasia

A New Hope (http://www.canreef.com/vbulletin/showthread.php?t=97779&page=60)
I Will Build A Grand Army (http://www.canreef.com/vbulletin/showthread.php?t=97779&page=60)
Floating Aquascape (http://www.canreef.com/vbulletin/showthread.php?t=97779&page=63)
Cycling & First Livestock (http://www.canreef.com/vbulletin/showthread.php?t=97779&page=64)
Cruising Along (http://www.canreef.com/vbulletin/showthread.php?t=97779&page=65)
Ive Got A Really Bad Feeling About This (http://www.canreef.com/vbulletin/showthread.php?t=97779&page=66)

Episode III : Revenge Of The Upgrade

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


Time to start a build journal!

This will be my first dip into Salt Water after about 30 years of having freshwater set-ups of all types. After purchashing my first house 5 years ago and being financially 'stable' I am finally able to take the leap into salt!

Sheldon (Texas Cichlid) is gunna be pretty upset when he gets moved to make way for my new reef!

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4471/37163198624_a2e4420f4f_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/YBZ7cS)

So I've decided to go with a 65 gal, 36x18x24. Didn't want to go too big, as the display tank will be on the 2nd floor and I didn't want to put thousands of pounds of stress on the joists. Too bad I didn't think ahead and sister up the joists when I finished the basement 5 years ago... oh well.

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4476/24020402798_be0aec4020_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/CAAQTQ)

Got myself the Vertek RO/DI 100gpd unit and mounted it under the sink (with the permission of the boss of course)! Unfortunately I will still have to do buckets, but I do plan to have a top-up tank next to the sump in the stand, so hopefully just 1 bucket trip per week! As you can see our kids, Sophie and Winston are checking my work. Sophie inspecting and Winston wondering why it doesn't dispence treats :)

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4459/24020399998_2ee9991940_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/CAAQ4y)

That's all I have for now. This is going to be a slow journal. I'm only allowed to pay cash for stuff. That's the deal I made with the wife and it's not a bad one really. I have budgeted around $3000 for everything not including livestock. Ordered some adjustable feet online last week and hoping they arrive this week so as I can get on with the stand build. The stand will be a little different from anything I have seen here on CanReef and I'm sure you will be interested and surprised by it. Thanks for viewing and I hope to hear input from you all!

[monkE]

love reading these builds from the start! I've done a 60 as my first reef as well and love it so far! i'm sure you'll have something real nice set up.

Nice job on the slider system for your ro/di, sure will make canister changing easy.

What is your plan with the tank? Reef? Fish only?

[WarDog]

love reading these builds from the start! I've done a 60 as my first reef as well and love it so far! i'm sure you'll have something real nice set up.

Nice job on the slider system for your ro/di, sure will make canister changing easy.

What is your plan with the tank? Reef? Fish only?

Thanks! As for the slider, I saw it on someones build journal here a few months ago and just thought it was a great space-saving idea! Greg's 75gal, I think.

Yeah, I'm gunna go for broke on the tank... full reef for sure! I've been tempted by salt for years and years! SPS, LPS and softies. Want zoa and rico gardens as well. Not sure if it will all fit in a 65 but I might have to get creative in designing different levels of shelves with live rock. Deep sand bed also. Probably going to be fish light. A pair of clowns and perhaps just 1 or 2 smaller fish and thats it.

[WarDog]

http://i1313.photobucket.com/albums/t559/Warren_Ford/mar192013001mp40_zpsa905034b.jpg (http://s1313.photobucket.com/user/Warren_Ford/media/mar192013001mp40_zpsa905034b.jpg.html)

]

[monkE]

going all out with this one eh? what are you going to do for lights????

[WarDog]

Not 100% on the lights yet. Maybe AquaMedic 6x39W T5HO, Evergrow IT2080, or 2 of the new AI Hydra's.

[mrhasan]

Not 100% on the lights yet. Maybe AquaMedic 6x39W T5HO, Evergrow IT2080, or 2 of the new AI Hydra's.

Since you are getting all the fancy stuffs for your tank, why not get the best of LED: Mitras plus they came out with a new model. Or if changing bulbs is not an issue for you, got for T5; you won't regret it :)

[monkE]

ya if your putting the cash into that powerhead, go for LED lights! check out A.Q. LED http://aq-led.com/
the local distributor Frank knows his stuff and this is what i'm using on my 60 and super happy with it. reasonably priced as well

[WarDog]

Like I said... not 100% on the lighting. So many choices!

[WarDog]

ya if your putting the cash into that powerhead, go for LED lights! check out A.Q. LED http://aq-led.com/
the local distributor Frank knows his stuff and this is what i'm using on my 60 and super happy with it. reasonably priced as well


Exactly which of these units are you using?

[monkE]

im using the aq-pro http://www.aq-led.com/index.php?route=product/category&path=88_74

good price point and fully capable to keep my coral happy. now i'm a pretty new reefer so i don' t have any of the really tough stuff yet but everything i have so far is happy!

[mrhasan]

Like I said... not 100% on the lighting. So many, many, many, many choices! If I do go LED the fixture will need to have 400-420nm capabilities!!!

One word: mitras :) You can't go wrong. Has everything and is the current "perfect" LED fixture out there.

[WarDog]

Finally! After waiting 76 days for delivery, my levelling mounts have finally arrived. Not too happy with the shipping service of the company I purchased these from! If you are looking for something similar (as I had an impossible time finding these locally) shoot me a PM and I will give you the company name. They are 1 1/2" black nylon base about 2" long. 3/8 stainless steel rod makes mounting foolproof. These feet are rated to hold 600lbs each. Now I can start to build the stand!

http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2860/9372297485_3ba78abcbd_z.jpg

[WarDog]

Not much progress on the build... sigh... but Xmas is coming and I've made my list!

After reviewing my build log I seen to have forgotten to introduce myself... LOL. :laluot_08:

My name is Warren and I live in PoCo. I am a gasfitter and welder by trade. I've been into aquariums for about 30 years, however I've only had freshwater tanks. Community tanks, brackish tanks, predator tanks... I've tried them all. The only freshwater species I haven't tried, and that I desperately want is a mixed Gar tank... but alas... I don't have the room for a 300gal+ set-up. One day.

I am finding this forum to be a great resource. I've learned a lot and enjoy trolling around and reading posts. I am starting to regret getting the Aqueon 65gal with megaflow, especially after seeing the work Concepts can do! It will have to do for now. I am planning on going with a Herbie, with the return over the back. I could drill... but frankly I don't wanna.

My original idea for the stand included a liquor cabinet built-in with a glass door and glass shelves right next to the tank, making the overall length 54 inches (18" doors x 3). However, this made it a pretty tight fit for the space and the wife and I nixed the idea. Now I am planning a 48" steel stand with an inside top to bottom clearance of 32 inches, putting it just higher than the counter tops. Skinned in cabinetry matching our kitchen. Since the tank is 36" I will have an extra 6 inches each side for granite shelves. Hope to have the stand fabbed up just after Christmas.

My sump design is not finalized. Single chamber, bubble trap, fuge, I dunno. Still figuring it out. I look at The Grizz's sump and I almost wet myself! Definitely going to run carbon, GFO, and pellet reactors. I was thinking of getting a big ass pump and tee-ing the reactors off the return. I also want to run a chiller and UV off this line as well, but not sure if one pump could handle all the load. Probably going to run a ZeoVit system in the future, but that's down the road a bit.

Lighting is still a huge undecided decision. I really like the Hydras for my LED choice but I am reading really great things about T5's for SPS. ATI's dimmable Sunpower seems like a good choice but not sure if you can control them with an Apex system... oh yes... did I mention I'd like to run a Neptune controller too?

Wow, look at me, blah blah blah. How can you tell the wife is at work? I'm really excited about getting this tank going (in 2014) and getting some frags from the local guys and gals. Wasn't able to make it to Bblinks meet and greet a few months back but I am looking forward to the next one! Any and all input on my build is welcome, even if you think I am doing something wrong.

Cheers for now.

[WarDog]

Went to J&L today to take advantage of the sale and ended up coming home with this lot.

Mag9.5
TLF reactor
1" Gate valve
Vertex refractometer
Vertex ground probe
Hammerhead magnet cleaner
1" bulkhead kit (main drain)
3/4" bulkhead kit (emergency)
3/4" Loc-Line bits (return)

Tempted to spend more, but didn't. Saved myself about $100 with the sale and all. Thanks to the wifey for the gift cards!!

http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3778/11575360793_ec4454f5bb_z.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/wford/11575360793/)

[WarDog]

Update time! Went to J&L last weekend and met Laurie (The Guy). Picked up a used sump 36x12x16 and a Speedwave pump from him.
Also grabbed myself a Hydor ATO, haven't heard much about these, but I thought I would give it a shot. The price was perfect and it doesn't have any float valves that can stick... that's gotta be good right?
The stand is being fabbed up at the metal shop across from my work. Should be done tomorrow then it's off to be powder coated black. I'm hoping it doesn't weigh too much, Lol.
I discovered that the main supplier my company uses (Noble) has all the plumbing fittings I need, PVC, sch80, true unions, Spears, etc. I am lucky enough to get them at company discount prices minus another 5%! It really is 'who you know'!!!
The wife is getting a little upset that the den is filling up with hardware... thank Poseidon she hasn't seen the receipts! :mrgreen:

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7489/16243550362_3127d563d4_b.jpg

[WarDog]

Oh, more news on an electrical note. After reading recent threads about electrical issues I did some investigating in my house. There is one outlet where the tank is planned, problem is this is the main living room/hallway circuit.
We've got 12 plugs on this circuit (which I believe is max code... or is it 15?), anyways, 1 halogen lamp, tv, dvr, PS3, Wii, laptop charger all run constant. Seasonal appliances added to this circuit include 2 fans in the summer
and a Xmas tree in the winter bright enough to land Airbus A380's. Not to mention the vacuum gets plugged in once in a while as well. Needless to say I was quite worried about adding a reef tank!! Then on further inspection I noticed a
breaker on the panel labeled 'Nook'. I turned it off and went back upstairs with my trusty AC sensor. Turns out there is only one plug (8 feet from where the tank will sit) on this dining room circuit. Unfortunately I will have to run an extension cord.
The wifey forbade me to open up the wall to hard wire it. Needless to say I was very relieved to find one dedicated plug on its own circuit somewhat close to the tank.

[Baldy]

just for credentials, im currently in my last year of school for electrician atm. First off if your using a tick tester to test for power, throw it out please. buy a 5$ plug tester and save yourself the potential shock. if 2 wires are ran parallel to each other for any length, one can induce enough voltage in the other to set off a tick tester even if the breaker supplying it is turned off. it wont shock you, but those testers sometimes go off as low as 25v.

12 plugs is max for a 15a curcuit. the dvr, wii, ps3, and laptop wont draw much unless theyre all running high stress at the same time. not often will you be playing games on the wii, ps3 and laptop at the same time. fans are very low for amp draw and the tree is probably low as well. vacuums arent too bad either. your biggest worry would be the halogen light (terrible efficiency, and dray a ton of power) and possibly the tv. newer led backlit tvs dont draw much but older ones might. best thing to do is try it, if it starts tripping the breaker, run the extension cord while you cut another plug into the wall. if its an interior wall on the main floor its extremely easy to do.

[WarDog]

Good info, thanks. I will try your recommendation and see if I need an extension in the future.

[The Guy]

Can't wait to see this new stand, sounds interesting
:pop2:

[WarDog]

Picked up the stand today... a day of highs and lows. Firstly the stand looks great. Happy with the powder coating even though I wanted white, but he didn't have.
Stupid me, I didn't measure it until I got it home. 1 inch short in width. 18 1/2 instead of the requested 19 1/2. Tank is only 18 3/8 but I am worried about the bulkheads
clearing the inside of the frame. Going to do a mock up when the wife comes home and can help move the tank. Fingers crossed!
Also, the threads on the bottom for the adjustable feet need to be re-tapped.
48" x 18 1/2 :confused: x 35" tall. Lots of inside height.

http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3770/12626138465_8b2c5f5322_z.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/wford/12626138465/)

[Madreefer]

Good choice in stand height. It's sure nice not having to bend over to look at your tank. Top of my tank stands over 6' tall. Only negative thing is having to stand on a chair or ladder to work inside of tank.

[The Guy]

Nice stand, you could always add a finished piece of plywood to give you the extra 1" you need, it would look just fine if you trim the plywood edge. The height is great, mines 37" high, nice for viewing, but as Bill said you need a small ladder to do the work in the tank but it's no big deal. keep the pictures coming. :smile:

[WarDog]

Nice stand, you could always add a finished piece of plywood to give you the extra 1" you need, it would look just fine if you trim the plywood edge. The height is great, mines 37" high, nice for viewing, but as Bill said you need a small ladder to do the work in the tank but it's no big deal. keep the pictures coming. :smile:

Thanks Laurie. After testing the tank on the stand, the bulkhead just clears the inside of the frame, that was my main concern. The height is great, it will really be the centrepiece of the room. LOTS of vertical space inside the stand for extra gear.
I will need one of those 2 step folding ladders for sure! Lol.

[The Guy]

Thanks Laurie. After testing the tank on the stand, the bulkhead just clears the inside of the frame, that was my main concern. The height is great, it will really be the centrepiece of the room. LOTS of vertical space inside the stand for extra gear.
I will need one of those 2 step folding ladders for sure! Lol.
Those ladders work great, but get the one with wide steps there a lot sturdier to stand on and only a few bucks more in cost. Are you coming to the frag meet on March 1? Should be a lot of fun with lots of reefers there.

[WarDog]

Opps... look what I did. Good thing I've got a drill and a tap kit.

https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3722/13366629915_d2ce8e0a5b_z.jpg (https://www.flickr.com/photos/wford/13366629915/)

Added some fuzzy 'anti-scratch my wicked hardwood floor' sticky things.

https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2849/13366771223_64cb5551c0_z.jpg (https://www.flickr.com/photos/wford/13366771223/)

[WarDog]

Just finished setting up a quarantine tank. It will however need to house my Texas Cichlid Sheldon while I can move (and clean the crap out of) his tank.
Once he is moved, or dies (that dude is like 7 years old) I can pull out the gravel and add FSW.
It's an all-new 20 gal standard and the PVC is 4".

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7054/13366765603_ffd9083578_z.jpg (https://www.flickr.com/photos/wford/13366765603/)

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7453/13366763303_b4e4a6855c_z.jpg (https://www.flickr.com/photos/wford/13366763303/)

[mike31154]

Before the 'electrical' part of this thread gets buried any further, I'll weigh in with a couple of things if I may! A dedicated outlet for the tank is never a bad idea, actually two would be better and most importantly, GFI protected as you're dealing with H2O. That nice titanium grounding probe you picked up at J&L is no substitute for the safety of GFI protection. Open a wall if that's what you need to do, or have the tank closer to the 'nook' location if that's feasible. I'd advise against running an extension cord if at all possible. Chances are you'll be using a power bar or two in order to have enough outlets for all the stuff typically required to keep the tank going. Power bars already have an extension on them & daisy chaining that with another extension cord is against code I believe. In any case, it's a potential hazard.

Fine looking build so far! Now's the time to get the electrical right, not after it's full of water & livestock.

[WarDog]

Before the 'electrical' part of this thread gets buried any further, I'll weigh in with a couple of things if I may! A dedicated outlet for the tank is never a bad idea, actually two would be better and most importantly, GFI protected as you're dealing with H2O. That nice titanium grounding probe you picked up at J&L is no substitute for the safety of GFI protection. Open a wall if that's what you need to do, or have the tank closer to the 'nook' location if that's feasible. I'd advise against running an extension cord if at all possible. Chances are you'll be using a power bar or two in order to have enough outlets for all the stuff typically required to keep the tank going. Power bars already have an extension on them & daisy chaining that with another extension cord is against code I believe. In any case, it's a potential hazard.

Fine looking build so far! Now's the time to get the electrical right, not after it's full of water & livestock.

I totally hear you mike31154, thanks for the honest input. Other than my wife's fury the only thing that scares me is electrical. As a gasfitter I am certified to work on low voltage circuits, but that's not the same as 110V. I work next to Electricians all the time and pick their brains constantly for info. This however is not the same as being a qualified journeyman. I am planning to replace the plug behind the tank with a GFI one. I am also planning on testing all the appliances on the living room circuit for their amp draw. If all else fails, I think I can tap into the nook circuit and run some BX shielded line behind the baseboard without having to open up the wall. I also have a dedicated circuit outside the house (going to the detached garage) just below the tank. This line exits the house, goes into a exterior junction box and carries on to the garage in underground PVC. It's 20 amps. We don't use the garage (rented out as storage) and the line is disconnected because of yard reno's. Thankfully I have a few option to make the tank all safe!

[mike31154]

Although the garage circuit seems to be an alternative, if you look into the code requirements, outdoor circuits are dedicated outdoor circuits! If I remember correctly, there are even restrictions on keeping a carport or garage lighting circuit separate from the outlet circuit. Could be wrong there, I need to check the little cheat book I have from PC Knight, the Electrical Code Simplified, BC edition. Available at most hardware stores for about $20. A pretty good investment to keep you out of trouble. Of course there's no substitute for hiring a qualified tradesman! Your electrician pals should be able to steer you in the right direction.

[WarDog]

Today was a busy day! Finally moved the old 20 gal and cleaned the wall and floor. It was in better shape than I thought.

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7306/13505152295_4b1c395f03_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/mzprgn)

Fixed the levelling mount I broke and put the stand and tank into place. Still fine tuning the final location and still need to level.

https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3704/13505153635_2eae0c64e6_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/mzprEt)

[WarDog]

Did a little bit of mod work on the sump.

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7238/14034130353_7744c14d21_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/no9A1H)https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7396/13991011166_acf9145c5d_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/njkAbs)

[WarDog]

The wife is at a nursing seminar so I am free to do some work on my painfully slow build! Only really get weekends to work on the tank and the wife/dogs/house keep me pretty busy. I'm sure you all know what I am talking about.
So I am using 1/4" laminated MDF for the bottom shelf, tank shelf and back of the stand. Now I know what you are going to say about MDF but I have used it for years around tanks and never really had a problem.
If it starts to swell I don't mind replacing it (hopefully during an upgrade)!

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7319/14095728661_d16ecaa524_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/ntAi3v)

Now here is a good example of why I needed adjustable feet. This is front to back and the second photo is the horizontal/left to right.
Going to work on that now.

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7318/14119026273_de6a3aa913_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/nvDGBt)

https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5529/14119025493_d4964a3573_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/nvDGo2)

All comments/suggestions welcome. Thanks for looking!

P.S. I am still waiting for a popcorn emote from kien. *sigh*

[gregzz4]

No big deal on the out-of-level issue
I used composite shims that don't compress over time or have problems with moisture
I bought mine at Home Depot. And 'cause they're brown you may not see them with your floors :smile:
I can't find a Canadian link for you, but these (http://www.homedepot.com/p/Unbranded-8-in-Composite-Shim-Bundle-of-12-SHM1-12-TW/202807695) are what I bought in the door department in Burnaby
They're just as easy to score and snap as the cedar ones too

Just to touch on your electrical ...
If you run BX, are you planning on it being in-wall just to the receptacle ?
If not, I'd suggest you go with something more water-compatible rather than a metal jacket that can corrode around your tank

[WarDog]

No big deal on the out-of-level issue
I used composite shims that don't compress over time or have problems with moisture
I bought mine at Home Depot. And 'cause they're brown you may not see them with your floors :smile:
I can't find a Canadian link for you, but these (http://www.homedepot.com/p/Unbranded-8-in-Composite-Shim-Bundle-of-12-SHM1-12-TW/202807695) are what I bought in the door department in Burnaby
They're just as easy to score and snap as the cedar ones too

Just to touch on your electrical ...
If you run BX, are you planning on it being in-wall just to the receptacle ?
If not, I'd suggest you go with something more water-compatible rather than a metal jacket that can corrode around your tank

Thanks for the input Greg. I just can't sleep knowing the top of the tank is standing around 5' high with it's centre of gravity about 4 feet.
God I hope we never get that big earthquake here in the GVRD. I think in the future I will avoid the hassle of the levelling mounts (extra welding, ordering, drill and tapping) and just use the shims as you suggested. Thanks for the link.
In the meantime this pic will help me sleep at night.

https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2917/13913708067_dd59c230e6.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/ncvoEp)

As for the BX idea, I have decided against it. I will replace the receptacle behind the tank with a GFI one. If it pops the breaker I will just have to add an extension from the nook plug.

Did a leak test on the baffle I siliconed in place last weekend...

https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5463/14120439333_fffe3f333d_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/nvLWEz)

...and proceeded to a maximum pressure test on the sump.

https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2935/13913766328_f1e0931945_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/ncvFYU)

The left chamber will be for drain/filter sock, skimmer, zeo reactor and pod love nest.
The middle chamber will be for mechanical and chemical filtration and the return is on the right.
As you can see I removed the return bulkhead and put in 2 panes of 6mm float. If ever you need to replace the bulkhead you can just use an old high E guitar string to garrote the silicone.

Here is a straight up view from inside the stand taken just for Laurie (The Guy). As you can see Laurie, there is plenty of room for the bulkheads and I was worrying about nothing, Lol.

https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2932/14077253536_0c3fce64f2_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/nrXB2S)

Thanks for looking.

[gregzz4]

Looks great dude
How'd you level it ? You have something like appliance bolts ?

I ask as you mentioned levelling mounts

So, is it Salty yet ? :razz:

[WarDog]

Looks great dude
How'd you level it ? You have something like appliance bolts ?

I ask as you mentioned levelling mounts

So, is it Salty yet ? :razz:

Thanks!! Check out post #16 for all the info on the mounts.

Hoping to have it wet in a few weeks, first need to plumb and finish the cabinets for the stand.

[gregzz4]

Guess I should have been following your build thread to catch all the hardware you're using :rolleyes:

[WarDog]

Guess I should have been following your build thread to catch all the hardware you're using :rolleyes:

You need to pay attention! Lol, I stole the idea for the ro/di slider from your build thread!

[WarDog]

Put the sump in the stand for the first time today.

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7439/13924872148_5b464c140f_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/nduBmy)

Should be enough room for dosing containers on the left.

https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2903/13924872290_dfd581fdd2_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/nduBp1)

Thinking I might do a custom ATO reservoir behind the sump. I wonder if 9 gallons will be enough for a weeks worth of top ups on a total system volume of 80 gallons? Any thoughts on this?

https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2932/13924822397_fdf3020212_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/ndumyM)

Thanks for looking.

[mike31154]

Put the sump in the stand for the first time today.

Thinking I might do a custom ATO reservoir behind the sump. I wonder if 9 gallons will be enough for a weeks worth of top ups on a total system volume of 80 gallons? Any thoughts on this?

Thanks for looking.

My sumpless 77 gallon evaporates about a gallon a day. I use a glass wine carboy that holds about 7 gals. as an ATO reservoir & it lasts close to 7 days (lucky 7!). That's under LED lighting. Depending on how much heat your lighting adds & additional water movement with sump, YMMV, but I'd guess 9 gallons will easily last a week.

[WarDog]

My sumpless 77 gallon evaporates about a gallon a day. I use a glass wine carboy that holds about 7 gals. as an ATO reservoir & it lasts close to 7 days (lucky 7!). That's under LED lighting. Depending on how much heat your lighting adds & additional water movement with sump, YMMV, but I'd guess 9 gallons will easily last a week.

Thanks for the input Mike. Think I will plan for a 10 gal reservoir.

I was able to get some work on the tank in, despite a busy Mother's Day.
Got the back glass painted, although there was a learning curve to this. Didn't expect to have to do several coats, waiting for it to dry in between.
Please ignore the back yard... it's a work in progress.

https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5475/14143170246_e2150a6905_c.jpg

Drilled all the holes for plumbing/electrical/venting, and then painted and mounted the back panel.

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7350/14166326755_6fa376726b_c.jpg

Originally started with two 3 inch holes for the overflow, but on further inspection it seemed a tight fit to install the bulkheads.
Ended up just chopping out a larger rectangular section.
Should be able to get a wrench on them now.

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7310/14163593532_4bee8c36a5_c.jpg

Here is how she sits now. Got the cabinets ordered from the maker next to work and will probably start some plumbing in the meantime.

https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5113/14163595202_f97e7dd9f1_c.jpg

Comments/suggestions welcome, thanks for looking.

[WarDog]

Ordered the cabinets almost 2 weeks ago and picked them up today. I'm impressed how they turned out. The stain colour, called 'Wendy custom toned' is the same as our kitchen and mantle (seen on the right).
Colour is pretty darn close. Doors are ubber custom at 22"x33", solid maple. Going to assemble on the weekend hopefully.

You can see a few schedule 80 fittings on the right of the stand. Been collecting them over the last week. Those I couldn't find locally I had to order online, including some pretty damn sexy pipe.

https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5557/14162087869_e8028c08f0_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/nzspjM)

[gregzz4]

Yup, lookin' very sexy :smile:

[WarDog]

The wife noticed a few problems (like they always do) with the front cabinet and doors, so off it went, back to the maker.

Trying to find an affordable way to fab the ATO, still searching. Was quoted $190 and I think that is too much, considering my display tank was only $260.

https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3874/14441335433_96ed15ca26_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/o18BTX)

Got the rest of the fittings on Friday from BRS. First time I've ordered from them and I look forward to dealing with them again. Got the pipe from a company called Formufit. http://www.formufit.com/ They supply the coloured pipe to BRS, but on their site it's half the price. I went around asking for coloured PVC pipe to Noble, Corix, Home De Pot, and PoCo Builders... they all looked at me like I was from Mars.

https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3841/14235155377_ebca272675_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/nFUTKp)

[WarDog]

Another piece of the puzzle. I really love the look of Vertex.

https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5031/14421753205_da389de90c_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/nYpfMk)

[The Guy]

Hey Warren RE: auto top off.
I got the Aquahub DIY kit from Bulk Reef Supply and it works great for me.
$39.99 and a small pump and RO water storage container, total cost approx. $60.00 :mrgreen:

[WarDog]

Hey Warren RE: auto top off.
I got the Aquahub DIY kit from Bulk Reef Supply and it works great for me.
$39.99 and a small pump and RO water storage container, total cost approx. $60.00 :mrgreen:

Although this looks like a great kit Laurie, I am not looking for the hardware/electronics part of the ATO, just the reservoir. Thanks for the idea!
Matt from Concepts has sent me a message and I am considering a custom glass reservoir from them. It is cheaper than anything I can find locally even when you factor in shipping.

[WarDog]

Yet another idea stolen... errrr... 'borrowed' from gregzz4. Any more and I think I may have to start paying royalties. :nod:

https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2937/14462775895_8aaee4e431_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/o32vp6)

https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3850/14276140639_b17b3ca711_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/nKwXeR)

[gregzz4]

Nicely done :smile:

[WarDog]

Plumbing progress. Main drain, emergency and overflow standpipes done!

https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5583/14547190815_a3706b99b7_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/oaua1K)

https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3912/14360588819_e29290a81c_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/nSZLJX) https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2925/14567303553_de179f2e26_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/ocgeQ6)

[Ryancw]

love the cover on overflow, yet another thing to throw on my to do list. Good looking build

[gregzz4]

Ooooo, I likey the red pipe, and the skid80 fittings, and the gate valve
Great choices
Looks awesome dood :mrgreen:

Just a thought, as you don't yet have a high level switch attached to that fancy new overflow cover ...

You may want to lower your emerg pipe an inch or two, or install a switch on your controller
Sorry I don't have a pic handy for you of the underside, but you get the idea

My emerg is an inch or more below the top of the inner lip of the megaflow box
I TRUST NOTHING :surprise:
http://i749.photobucket.com/albums/xx136/Gregzz4/75%20Gallon%20Build/DSC00910.jpg

[gregzz4]

love the cover on overflow, yet another thing to throw on my to do list. Good looking build
My cover has saved many wrasse lives :smile:

[WarDog]

love the cover on overflow, yet another thing to throw on my to do list. Good looking build

Thanks!

Ooooo, I likey the red pipe, and the skid80 fittings, and the gate valve
Great choices
Looks awesome dood :mrgreen:

Just a thought, as you don't yet have a high level switch attached to that fancy new overflow cover ...

You may want to lower your emerg pipe an inch or two, or install a switch on your controller
Sorry I don't have a pic handy for you of the underside, but you get the idea

My emerg is an inch or more below the top of the inner lip of the megaflow box
I TRUST NOTHING :surprise:


Thanks gregzz4! So what you are saying is a high level switch connected to a controller (via a breakout box?) that detects high water level and shuts down the return pump?

[gregzz4]

Thanks gregzz4! So what you are saying is a high level switch connected to a controller (via a breakout box?) that detects high water level and shuts down the return pump?
Oh ya baby, or whatever connection you need to make to whatever controller you're using :lol:
But yes, to shut down your return pump is the idea - as well as all related gear during that kind of issue
Nothing worse than having your sump dump all over your livingroom floor :doh:

I test my high level switch weekly when doing WCs, as well as all my other switches, and my check valves

You can always PM me if you have questions

Keep up the good work and pics bud, your build is coming along very nicely
You're makin' me jealous

If I had the time to redo my system, I have ideas/plans ... :mrgreen:

[JDigital]

Where do you get the red PVC pipe?

[WarDog]

Where do you get the red PVC pipe?

http://www.formufit.com/ . They supply the coloured pipe to BRS. Half the price on their site.

[WarDog]

Return piping complete. I'll show a picture of the back after the wife lets me drag the tank back into the middle of the living room. :rolleyes:

I'm debating whether or not to add a tee on the return for a chiller, or use a dedicated pump with some transparent hose?

https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3925/14398172258_101ebef5d6_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/nWjoZh)

[JDigital]

If you've got the extra GPH coming from your return pump I would tee it off to your chiller. Adding a separate pump will just add that bit extra heat to the system (even if you are running a chiller). That's just my opinion though... I've never ran a chiller. :lol:

[WarDog]

Lost all motivation to work on the tank this week what with the crazy heat. Temperatures in the house are around 41 C. :flame: Been hiding away in the air-conditioned confines of the bedroom. :smow:
Crawled my way out of the deep freeze to do a bit of work. Sweat was dripping down my face as I mounted 8 screws to the plumbing clips I picked up today. Yeah... that's enough!

Here are the pics. I was thinking to paint the back of the wood white, but my mind melted and I remembered the A/C. No one will ever see it anyways.

https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2905/14664158924_9cd9115581_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/okPDyh)

https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3896/14479796389_7bb53aecb0_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/o4wJZT)

https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5593/14479762560_46ca71ab81_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/o4wyWC)

Thanks for looking. Comments/suggestions welcome.

[WarDog]

If you've got the extra GPH coming from your return pump I would tee it off to your chiller. Adding a separate pump will just add that bit extra heat to the system (even if you are running a chiller). That's just my opinion though... I've never ran a chiller. :lol:

Think I might just do this. I am running an Eheim Compact+ 5000. After fittings and head loss I should be getting 650gph to the tank. I think this is enough turn over, and I should be ok to tee into it for the chiller.

If anyone else has thoughts on this I'd love to hear them, thanks!

[gregzz4]

Every time I see that red pumbing .... oooohhh :wink:

41C in your house !!!!
When mine hit 37C with the heatwave 5-6 years back I installed 2 x 10,000BTU units and we cool the whole house now

A thought - how are you planning to keep a chiller running if your house temps are above it's rated intake air temps ?
41C is 105.8F
My chiller's ratings are based on max room temps of 90F and I easily hit 85-86 in the sump room if I don't monitor it. This can happen before I turn on the house AC and then it's hard to bring it back down. Luckily one of our AC units it in the sump room, but it doesn't help the chiller if I'm not watching it
82 in our livingroom translates to 86 in the sumproom, so not a lot of proper cooling going on
I'm currently working on plumbing the chiller's hot air out a window to alleviate the cycle of compounding hot air buildup, and am also thinking about a separate exhaust fan on a humidistat

Keep the build pics up when you can stand the heat !!

[WarDog]

A thought - how are you planning to keep a chiller running if your house temps are above it's rated intake air temps ?

Good point, I never even thought of this. We had a 12,000 btu a/c in the living room last year but it couldn't keep up, so we moved it to the bedroom. I will have to figure something out. I am reading the temp off the thermostat control in the hallway, where it does feel hotter. I will need to get a thermometer and put it next to the tank to test. Worse case scenario we may have to invest in central a/c.

[gregzz4]

Comments/suggestions welcome.
I had a problem with a deadspot on the left side of my overflow, and it took me many days and tests to solve it

I had to split my return
My left side is running a locline Y fitting
Half of it points straight down towards the sand and the other across the surface towards the front of the tank to take away what would churn up the sand
On the right side of my overflow is the other locline, and it points towards the far right corner

[Aquattro]

Any way to install the chiller outside? Mine is in an external room off the side of the house.

[gregzz4]

Worse case scenario we may have to invest in central a/c.
Or just a second unit on the other side of the house ...

I run one unit in our master and one in my office/sump room
Back and front of the house and the furnace fan runs all summer

[gregzz4]

Any way to install the chiller outside? Mine is in an external room off the side of the house.
I wish
Maybe that would work for him

All the heat from my chiller is enough to cause me to run my office AC when the house is still comfortable

[WarDog]

I had a problem with a deadspot on the left side of my overflow, and it took me many days and tests to solve it

I had to split my return
My left side is running a locline Y fitting
Half of it points straight down towards the sand and the other across the surface towards the front of the tank to take away what would churn up the sand
On the right side of my overflow is the other locline, and it points towards the far right corner

Ah yes Greg, I have thought of this already! I am planning to add several more powerheads on the back glass of the tank.

Any way to install the chiller outside? Mine is in an external room off the side of the house.

It's an option, not one the wife would be too happy about, but an option none the less. The tank is on the north side of the house on an exterior wall. That side gets shade all day and only moss and 'special' mushrooms grow there!

Or just a second unit on the other side of the house ...

I run one unit in our master and one in my office/sump room
Back and front of the house and the furnace fan runs all summer

Every summer I tell myself I need to wire the furnace with a summer switch, and I never do it... and I'm a gasfitter! Who want's to bring their work home with them, right? Lol.

[gregzz4]

Every summer I tell myself I need to wire the furnace with a summer switch, and I never do it... and I'm a gasfitter! Who want's to bring their work home with them, right? Lol.
Understood
I used to love to help whoever I could, but after 23 years in my last industry, I dreaded everytime some family member/friend asked "Hey, can you ..."

[WarDog]

Went to NCIX and bought one of these do-dabs. All I need it for is the 110v to 12v Molex connector (shown here) to power the case fan. Fan is on order from TigerDirect.ca and I am expecting it next week.

Adaptor: http://www.ncix.com/detail/vantec-2-5-3-5-5-25-sata-ide-6e-36790-1013.htm
Fan: http://www.tigerdirect.ca/applications/SearchTools/item-details.asp?EdpNo=4836213&CatId=801

https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2896/14637593499_4e37c62aeb_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/oituzH)

Also received my utility lighting for the stand. Got it off Ebay. I am very happy with it. Super cheap and free shipping to boot. Took less than a week to arrive from China.
If it konks out, I have no problem buying another.

LED strip: http://www.ebay.ca/itm/1-20M-RGB-5050-SMD-waterproof-300-LED-Light-Strip-Flexible-IR-Remote-12V-power-/161255347539?pt=US_String_Lights_Fairy_Lights&var=&hash=item258b915553.

https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5587/14637707137_94b288c636_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/oiu5mZ)

Regarding the ATO reservoir, it made more financial sense to build it myself. Too bad really as I was looking forward to a Concepts made product. That's ok, my next display will be made by them for sure.
Went to my local glass cutter and got it all at a reasonable price. Stupid me, I shelled one corner as I was laying it all out for prep. DOH!!

https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2901/14637594829_ef17778150_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/oituYD)

Assembled the ATO this evening. Going to let it cure before I trim, do the inside and finally the top. Silicone looks ugly as I've never built a tank before.
Interior volume works out to 12 gallons.

https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3901/14637594019_86f06424e7_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/oituJF)

This project is taking forever. Thanks for looking.

[gregzz4]

$3 for the LED kit, and with a remote ??? That's almost ludicrous
Good score :smile:
Kool fan too. I like the temp display

http://images.highspeedbackbone.net/SkuImages/gallery/large/B126-1002-02.jpg

[WarDog]

$3 for the LED kit, and with a remote ??? That's almost ludicrous
Good score :smile:
Kool fan too. I like the temp display

The LED kit came to about $20. 2 meters of LED strip, power supply, remote and a few T connectors (the strip can be cut to fit). Plus the strip is waterproof and free shipping. Still a steal!

I've used the fans before in my computer mods. I like them. The LED's on the fan only run strong for about 18 months then crap out. It's only $12 so it doesn't break the bank.

[WarDog]

Continuing on with the ATO build. Here is the corner I shelled. :ohwell:

https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5570/14670225569_a322c91170_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/ommJXB)

And the inside bead of silicone holding the panes together.

https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3894/14853787661_0b4427bab4_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/oCzxzg)

I was thinking how to get a nice fillet bead of silicone on the inside of the ATO without getting my fingers all sticky and silicone everywhere.
Then I remembered a tool glass makers use for just such the trick. Off to Home De Pot, but couldn't find one. Saw a vinyl siding colour swatch (which was free), took it home and made this.
Simply cut it in half and then nicked a nice 45* corner off of one.

https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3896/14833857886_f2801513f2_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/oAPp9s)

Applied a generous amount of silicone and slid my custom tool from bottom to top with lots of pressure and... VOILA!

https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3840/14856536762_f86764177a_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/oCPCMy)

Let it cure for 48 hours and then began to trim the excess on the outside. DISCLAIMER: Please do NOT eat the razor blade.

https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3869/14876742163_08ac36a963_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/oEBc9x)

I was pretty happy that it held together! Sophie could care less.

https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3898/14853785801_f201487fb9_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/oCzx2c)

Siliconed the top on tonight, probably trim it up tomorrow.

https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3842/14856835085_f410861811_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/oCRat4)

Thanks for looking.

[daplatapus]

That inside bead looks awesome, well done.

[WarDog]

That inside bead looks awesome, well done.

Thanks daplatapus, how's the fish room coming?

[Kevotron]

I also have those color changing LED reels, but where did you get those 4 pin connectors ??
this is a cool build !!

[WarDog]

I also have those color changing LED reels, but where did you get those 4 pin connectors ??
this is a cool build !!

Thanks! Kevotron, I will provide a link when I get home.

[WarDog]

I also have those color changing LED reels, but where did you get those 4 pin connectors ??
this is a cool build !!

4 pin connectors here: http://www.ebay.ca/itm/Connector-Female-4-Pin-2way-L-T-Shape-For-RGB-Led-Strip-5050-3528-With-Pin-/171269726055?pt=US_Lighting_Parts_and_Accessories&var=&hash=item27e0789f67


Finished the ATO this evening. Total cost was about $110 all in. Hoping I can find some black 3/4" spa flex for the open side of the bulkhead. This will allow for easy filling with RO/DI.

https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3897/14864312702_f16938b7a6_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/oDvuiu)

[kien]

Wow that's one BOSS ATO! Imma gunna hafta borrow that idea!

[WarDog]

Wow that's one BOSS ATO! Imma gunna hafta borrow that idea!

Thanks Kien, ideas are meant to be shared! God knows I stole a few from Greg!

[daplatapus]

Yeah. That is one cool ATO. :)


Thanks daplatapus, how's the fish room coming?

Its going so slow its painful. I haven't done much in the last week or so, been way too busy at work. Ordered a couple new poly tanks for a bigger mixing station though... :)

[WarDog]

Its going so slow its painful. I haven't done much in the last week or so, been way too busy at work. Ordered a couple new poly tanks for a bigger mixing station though... :)

Nice! I look forward to more updates of the progress! I wish I had the space for an 'Ichthyology Laboratory'!

[The Guy]

Finished job looks great Warren. :first:

[WarDog]

Finished job looks great Warren. :first:

Thanks Laurie!

[The Guy]

Finished job looks great Warren. :first:
You must be close to putting water in soon eh!

[WarDog]

You must be close to putting water in soon eh!

I wish! There are still 4 big ticket items I want/need before start up.

1) Dosing pump. Thinking about a Libra, just because it matches the black/red/white theme. Alternative choice is a BM or a Kamoer. Single dosing pumps are out of the question.
2) Controller: Decided on the Apex
3) Chiller: Need a 1/5 or 1/4 minimum.
4) Lighting: Still can't decide LED or T5. I want the best of both worlds, but ATI's hybrid's are so expensive, and they don't come in black. Considering a DIY hybrid.

Those four items equal big $$$. Plus I still need consumables and test kits, not to mention rock from Eli, substrate, salt, etc. I may need to get a second job, lol.

Might not be salty until Christmas. If that's the case then the chiller can wait until next summer.

Why do we choose this hobby again?! I'm just thankful my wife is supportive!

[gregzz4]

I'm wondering why you want such a big chiller ?

My system is 105G total and I use a 1/10HP
It's only 280 watts and I run it with an Eheim Compact+ 2000

My old 1/4HP was 480 watts and required a minimum 600+ GPH so more power and money on a bigger, noisier pump

[WarDog]

I'm wondering why you want such a big chiller ?

My system is 105G total and I use a 1/10HP
It's only 280 watts and I run it with an Eheim Compact+ 2000

My old 1/4HP was 480 watts and required a minimum 600+ GPH so more power and money on a bigger, noisier pump

Good question Greg. Let me ask you this, on a very hot day how long does your chiller run?

[gregzz4]

Ya ya, it runs longer

When it's hot enough in the house for me to be uncomfortable and can't sleep, I turn on our whole house air and the chiller then doesn't run
So 1800 watts of 24/7 power saves me 300 watts of tank hardware power :lol:

My old 1/4HP used to run for 4 mins and this one probably runs for 10, so there goes all my power savings

But, I like using my 1/10HP as it's very quiet. I leave the pump running and never hear it (no stale water in the chiller)
And the setup takes up considerably less space
Plus it and the pump were about $250 less

With a 1/4HP unit at least you won't have to worry about working it too hard
Just be sure it's setup properly so it doesn't short-cycle and burn itself out
I initially had trouble setting up my old one and it would run for about 45 seconds every 4 mins :surprise:

Oh, plus I had to put the old chiller in my office as we couldn't sleep with it running beside the tank

[WarDog]

Yeah, my logic behind the 1/4 was that it would have to run less to bring the temp down which is less wear and tear on the unit, and less exhausted heat into the room.
As mentioned before my house can get pretty hot and the a/c unit will continue to stay in the bedroom (non-negotiable).
I hear ya on the noise and cost. These are major factors.
Do you know if anyone makes a 1/6 or 1/8 unit?

[gregzz4]

I'm thinking it'll be the same amount of heat regardless of the unit size
You're converting tank water temp into room air temp

I do recall seeing a 1/5 once but nothing local

[gregzz4]

Correction

J&L sells Aqualogic 1/5HP in either a drop-in or inline, but they're a grand

They have the Ecoplus on sale right now, but you can always buy it Boxing Day

[daplatapus]

I know nothing about chillers, but what burns out motors and compressors is the amount they turn on and off more so than the amount of time they run. If you have to choose, choose longer run time than more cycles.

[WarDog]

Correction

J&L sells Aqualogic 1/5HP in either a drop-in or inline, but they're a grand

They have the Ecoplus on sale right now, but you can always buy it Boxing Day

I've seen those, they look nice, but I'd have to hook myself to afford that. Sadly I'd make no money, lol.

I know nothing about chillers, but what burns out motors and compressors is the amount they turn on and off more so than the amount of time they run. If you have to choose, choose longer run time than more cycles.

Good to know... thanks daplatapus, and gregzz4 for all the info! It was suggested to me, by an 'expert', that I should be using a 1/4hp minimum.
That being said, I always thought I could get away with a 1/10. Glad to have my conceptions corrected on this forum!

[gregzz4]

You're welcome for the input
Hope it helps

A 1/4HP is good for 180G with a 10 degree drop
A 1/10HP is good for 110G with the same
I am finding today, with the house being 81F with all the windows open, that my 1/10HP runs for about 15mins to keep the tank between 79.3 and 79.1, so yes it's working hard
I'm sure if I hadn't sold my 1/4HP unit I would have found a way to incorporate it, but it was really noisy

I guess you'll just have to decide what you want to spend and how much noise you can deal with

[WarDog]

Needed some more holes for wiring and decided to paint the back.

https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5595/14736572277_7a5d07026d_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/osdMwn)

Got a fancy powerbar with surge protection. Funny how every powerbar says 'not for use with an aquarium' on the package. :crazy:
Here is a good detail of the tabs I had welded to the stand to mount the cabinetry to.
They also provide some seismic support I suppose, Lol.

https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3902/14779659278_5515fcd68c_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/ow2BMG)

Finally got around to installing the exhaust fan. Bgears 80mm with LED temp display. http://bgears.com/b-cool.html

https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3909/14779598947_1360b1d5c7_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/ow2iRv)

https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5585/14963041981_b8746aa44c_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/oNev5r)

Might have an acrylic deflector fabbed up for the back so as not to get salt creep on the wall.

https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5559/14963042721_066e0405c7_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/oNevic)

Build is slowly picking up speed, slowly. Picked up 12 feet of Panduit, guess I can start some wiring! http://www.panduit.com/wcs/Satellite?q=F2X3LG6&c=Page&childpagename=Panduit_Global%2FPage%2FSearch_Layou t&cid=1345565623132&packedargs=locale%3Den_us&pagename=Search_Wrapper

Thanks for looking.

[The Guy]

Looking real nice Warren, you can tell your a fitter looks great. :smile:

[WarDog]

Looking real nice Warren, you can tell your a fitter looks great. :smile:

Thanks Laurie! Having a slight case of OCD helps with the building part, but once the livestock is in, I'm not too sure how that's going to work out, lol.


Just as things were gaining speed with the build, 'normal' life got in the way. The wife and I have been spending a lot of time working on our yard reno before the weather turns sour.
Leaving me far too spent to work on the tank. I was able to do a bit of work today by putting the cabinets on the stand. Here are the results.

https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3931/15256023460_0713d031c0_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/pf87gf)

https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3931/15442735695_5bd9ac9922_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/pwC4iH)

https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2945/15419658436_6376f0af11_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/puzMeW) https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3927/15256163957_c220a3291b_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/pf8Q2B)

Contacted Eli in regards to some rock, hoping to do some sculpting soon!

Trying to find a used triple doser... sigh.

Thanks for looking.

[WarDog]

Trying to work some magic with LED's tonight. Getting inspiration from Harry Potter... although he looks worried.

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7555/16244386975_c6758662f1_b.jpg

[WarDog]

LED build failed. Those stab connectors aren't very good at making contact. Going to have to try to find my 25 year old soldering iron and do it like a boss.

Rock came today from Eli. Can't say I've ever been excited to receive a box of rocks before!

22 lbs Pukani, 35 lbs Branch, Thanks Eli!

https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8619/16242525811_57418565e9_b.jpg

https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8570/16244386815_6328f8446e_b.jpg

[eli@fijireefrock.com]

LED build failed. Those stab connectors aren't very good at making contact. Going to have to try to find my 25 year old soldering iron and do it like a boss.

Rock came today from Eli. Can't say I've ever been excited to receive a box of rocks before!

22 lbs Pukani, 35 lbs Branch, Thanks Eli!

https://fbcdn-sphotos-h-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-xap1/v/t1.0-9/1912541_10152295790181403_8784799308036875379_n.jp g?oh=82a59820be18742dc5f2fe7714185742&oe=54F6D5D5&__gda__=1421296620_49ff3a5979802b91ab83e98edcaf704 2 https://fbcdn-sphotos-e-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-xpa1/v/t1.0-9/10644940_10152295790101403_4283068357266042552_n.j pg?oh=5ac5361fc69cc33b047441097af8d419&oe=54B04BBB&__gda__=1422182829_9809bfbe2c7480b12c1d44c3a510600 b


Glad you received it well.Now have fun putting it all back together like the video or close to remember don't get frustrated just enjoy it as I told you earlier your setup is the most elaborate aquascape...the heat is on:biggrin:
How did the FijiCrete make it hope with no punctures.

[gregzz4]

Dem's some wild lookin' rocks

[WarDog]

How did the FijiCrete make it hope with no punctures.

Fijicrete survived unscathed. Actually I was very happy with the condition of the whole package. No rubble to speak of and all the branches were intact. Great pack job Eli!
Do you think it would be possible to use a Dremmel to shape the pukani, or just a chisel and mallet?

Dem's some wild lookin' rocks

I know right? I hope I can bring my vision to life! Stay tuned, probably going to cook it this weekend. Lots of rainy day projects for this guy! Woot woot!

[eli@fijireefrock.com]

Fijicrete survived unscathed. Actually I was very happy with the condition of the whole package. No rubble to speak of and all the branches were intact. Great pack job Eli!
Do you think it would be possible to use a Dremmel to shape the pukani, or just a chisel and mallet?



I know right? I hope I can bring my vision to life! Stay tuned, probably going to cook it this weekend. Lots of rainy day projects for this guy! Woot woot!


You can use any tool with a sharp end but to do a precise job and a dremel is available I would say yes its the tool for the job.

[WarDog]

All in all I think the baths went quite well as all the rock came out very white!

Bleach:

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7463/15621963244_2beec55b69_b.jpg

Acid:

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7562/15621963374_a72e3f5cb9_b.jpg

Soaking it in freshwater overnight and will begin drying tomorrow.

[WarDog]

Rocks are drying but I can still smell a little bleach. Is this normal? Should I rinse them again? Any insight would be helpful.

Met tang daddy at J&L and picked up a Vertex Libra from him. Deal included 3 dosing vessels that I was sure would not fit in my stand.
Got home and lo and behold they just squeezed in... Yay!
Thanks Chris!

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7564/15624506123_24e006683d_b.jpg

Seems I can't stop in at J&L without buying something... ended up coming home with an Apex Lab grade system.

Need to do a leak test on the entire system next. Been dreading it, but I'm sure everything will turn out ok.

Thanks for looking.

[tang daddy]

Warren, system is coming along nice man. Glad to see the doser actually fit!

[WarDog]

Warren, system is coming along nice man. Glad to see the doser actually fit!

Thanks Chris, I'm really happy that it did!

Finally got around to finishing the LED utility lighting properly.

https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8598/15593640910_b53ac4838e_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/pKXuaL)

Here's tang daddy's Libra doser installed along with the LED lights.

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7543/15593022878_e2fa3cc310_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/pKUjs3)

Colours don't show up great on my camera (Nikon Coolpix L120) but you get the idea. I should try playing around with the white balance I guess.
Wire management is one of the next jobs. Also, a full leak test is scheduled for this coming weekend then it's on to aquascaping with the rock.
The only major purchase left is the lighting. Still undecided on 2 Kessil A360's, or a Hamilton Tech 6x39w T5.

Thanks for looking. Comments/input welcome!

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7476/15780015982_60fce1dfa8_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/q3qGZ5)

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7509/15158487234_2ddd8b62f4_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/p6vd9b)

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7546/15593024088_1b587ec862_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/pKUjNU)

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7503/15776571531_29b7f461f8_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/q3844Z)

[kien]

Whoa. I want!

[The Guy]

I don't know of many people that have a color choice in the sump area,"very cool"
Getting closer bud! Looks awesome.

[tang daddy]

The sump cabinet lighting looks cool.... As for lights you can't go wrong with T5, and later on if you're feeling frisky add a couple led strips to get that pop and shimmer.

What are your coral stocking plans?

I almost caved and bought a radion for my 38g but decided to try some T5 fixtures I had laying around and couldn't be happier with the colouration. Then I had some led strips laying around aswell so I tried them out and the combo is spectacular. Lucky I have so much equiptment laying around lol.

You are more than welcome to stop by and see what it looks like if you want.... Let me know!

[WarDog]

Whoa. I want!

kien, your tank is awesome sauce. Definitely one of the premier set-ups here on Canreef. It's been an inspiration to me!

I don't know of many people that have a color choice in the sump area,"very cool"
Getting closer bud! Looks awesome.

Laurie, I'm actually looking forward to the next party we throw so I can put the lights on 'disco disco' mode!

The sump cabinet lighting looks cool.... As for lights you can't go wrong with T5, and later on if you're feeling frisky add a couple led strips to get that pop and shimmer.

What are your coral stocking plans?

I almost caved and bought a radion for my 38g but decided to try some T5 fixtures I had laying around and couldn't be happier with the colouration. Then I had some led strips laying around aswell so I tried them out and the combo is spectacular. Lucky I have so much equiptment laying around lol.

You are more than welcome to stop by and see what it looks like if you want.... Let me know!

Chris, as a salty noob I may be aiming a little high with the stocking plans but I'm planning SPS dominant. I have decades of experience with fresh water so I'm confident I can adapt my husbandry skills accordingly.
Very interested in Chalices, palys and zoas as well. Just need to experiment with proper placement in the tank once it's up and running. Not too keen on softies, but I'm sure I will acquire some.
All in all it will be a mixed reef, with the emphasis on SPS and zoas. You can view a video of my proposed aquascape that Eli made here https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vPieM7UW7Dw&list=UUGPKuPSCmiTyeOHxntsrufQ and here https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AtRqiGrJAVY&list=UUGPKuPSCmiTyeOHxntsrufQ
The challenge will be proper placement for all non-SPS corals as I am planning wicked flow across the top half of the structure.

Thanks for the invite, I'd love to stop by your place some time, check out your set up and talk shop. I'll text you buds.

[WarDog]

System leak test underway. I don't think I could be any more nervous. Almost 2 years of preparation riding on what happens in the next little bit.
Tank slightly off the wall for access to unions and such.

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7525/15795234011_105ed0f538_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/q4LGLT)

[WarDog]

Leak test passed with flying colours. Bulkheads good, PVC glue good, unions good, floor and stand survived.
Took about half an hour to get the Herbie dialed in. Stupid quiet. Plugged in the heater and will probably add some vinegar once it heats up.

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7525/15776093446_d8585989ff_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/q35AX9)

Here is the power failure test, water level only rises about 3 inches.

https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8140/15613938129_b75f0ab8c6_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/pMKvPP)

One slight problem. The vibration from the Eheim compact+ 5000 is transferring to the stand through the plumbing and is being amplified.
The wife pretty much told me to fix it or move out, lol.
The clear tubing off the return is only 5 and a 1/4" long before joining the PVC and I think is too rigid.
The pump has suction cup feet and is sitting on a OXO silicone sink mat.
I'm going to try to find some 1" ID silicone tubing and perhaps shorten the PVC on the return riser by several inches.
Anyone else had this problem? Any advice?
Thanks for looking.

[The Guy]

:thumb:What can I say a fitter did the piping, everything looks so tidy & new.
The silicone tubing and shorten the return riser should help a lot with the vibration issue.

[WarDog]

I have sourced some medical tubing here: http://www.new-line.com/hose/tubing/latex/amber-latex-medical-tubing, hoping this reduces the transfer of vibration to the plumbing.
I'm a little disappointed it's taken me 2 weeks to find the time to get out to Langley to pick it up. Every little hiccup pushes this build behind. It's like 2 steps forward, 1 step back.
Ram3500 graciously invited me to see his Kessil A360's in action. I've pretty much decided those are the fixtures I'm going with. Thanks Ian!
I have 3 1/2 weeks off from work at Christmas (thank-you baby Jesus). If I can pry myself away from the wifey and I playing Lego Hobbit, I'm sure this build can get finished!
Hopefully more updates this week and rock sculpting next weekend.

[theokie]

Love the planning going into this build, really inspires me to not just have ass my plumbing on my 200 gallon build over Christmas. I've gotten 3 of the Eheim Compact+ 5000 and hope the Latex tubing solves your vibration issues, as with 3 of them and a Waterblaster HY7000 I'm really trying to keep vibrations to a minimum

[daplatapus]

Nice and clean build, bravo brotha! Hope mine turns out as nice (although I doubt it as I'm not using pretty coloured piping :( )

[WarDog]

Nice and clean build, bravo brotha! Hope mine turns out as nice (although I doubt it as I'm not using pretty coloured piping :( )

Thanks daplatapus! The only reason for the coloured piping is because all the equipment is in the stand. If I had a fish room downstairs I'd be using white sched40 as well. The extra cost would not be justified IMO. Plus, the fittings have really been a nightmare to find locally. Probably won't go that route again.

No updates on your build lately, what's going on?

Love the planning going into this build, really inspires me to not just have ass my plumbing on my 200 gallon build over Christmas. I've gotten 3 of the Eheim Compact+ 5000 and hope the Latex tubing solves your vibration issues, as with 3 of them and a Waterblaster HY7000 I'm really trying to keep vibrations to a minimum

theokie, the tweaking I did today has solved all the issues I had... and when I say 'I', that really means my wife, Lol.

Replaced the OXO silicone mat with an inch of foam filter media. Shortened the PVC riser (had to use a coupling), and replaced the vinyl tubing with latex medical tubing from New Line Hose & Fittings: http://www.new-line.com/hose/tubing/latex/amber-latex-medical-tubing
It looks ugly as hell, IMO, but has made it completely silent! I would highly recommend it.

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7564/15944275266_a454089e47_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/qhWzxG)

Now that the plumbing is all sorted I can focus my attention on the rockwork. Might be PM'ing a few of you guys for some tips!

https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8593/15347769254_a74fcc2ee3_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/poek6h)

Thanks for looking.

[daplatapus]

No updates on your build lately, what's going on?


Been crazy busy with work. But should be able to post some pics here in a bit. got my fish room drywalled and taped - ready to paint :)

What sizes did that surgical tubing come in? I've got some vibration issues on mine as well and any flexible tubing I've tried thus far hasn't much helped, they're still too firm and transmit the vibration through still.

[WarDog]

It comes in all sizes up to 1" ID, but that's $10.57/ft. Not cheap! http://www.new-line.com/hose/tubing/latex/amber-latex-medical-tubing

[The Guy]

It comes in all sizes up to 1" ID, but that's $10.57/ft. Not cheap! http://www.new-line.com/hose/tubing/latex/amber-latex-medical-tubing

Does New-Line sell it by the foot? It doesn't really say on the website unless I missed it.

[WarDog]

Does New-Line sell it by the foot? It doesn't really say on the website unless I missed it.

Yes they do. A few of the hoses they supply only come in prepackaged rolls, but some are sold by the foot, including the medical tubing.

[The Guy]

Yes they do. A few of the hoses they supply only come in prepackaged rolls, but some are sold by the foot, including the medical tubing.
Good to know, thanks Warren

[WarDog]

After reading several threads involving rock work I finally worked up the courage to start. Changed my plans from the mock-up Eli made for me, but overall, it's pretty close.

First, I figured out the best angle for the base rock. This ended up being a little back heavy...

https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8617/15389900633_79de1972ff_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/prXghn)

...so I chopped that booty off!

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7514/16008830012_ecc90b5502_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/qoDrqy)

Front left corner was a little low. Added a small chunk as a foot. Found a good spot on top for the left-overs from the back.

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7557/15387267344_500c0e2fb4_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/prHLuQ)

Used some FijiCrete as per Eli's instructional videos. Holy crap, this stuff sets fast. You don't have much time to work with it!
I'm just hoping it's as strong as advertised. Gunna give it 24hrs before I even touch it.

https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8673/16009521305_a5a8924551_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/qoGYVp)

What you see here measures 16L x 12W x 17 tall. Due to the centre brace on the tank this structure will need to be dropped in and any additional rock will need to be added (I will never make the mistake of a centre brace again).
Busy weekend ahead and next weeks work is looking swamped. Not sure how much more I will be able to do before the holidays. Really looking forward to my 3 and a 1/2 week staycation!
Thanks for looking and Merry Christmas to all!

[The Guy]

Looks good, I like the area you have under the rock now that you put the small leg on the left. Diggers and cave dwellers will be happy too. I'm looking forward to Christmas with my newest grandson and the rest of the family as well.
Merry Christmas and a happy new year to you and your family Warren.

[WarDog]

Merry Christmas Laurie, have a great time with your family! Hope to see you in the new year!

[WarDog]

Now that all the excitement of Christmas has past, and the wife is back to work for a week, I have time to finally get this fishbowl rolling.
Display is all dusty and dingy so I need to start by giving it a good cleaning.
Set up my 'workbench', now begins the task of bringing it all together... and I thought I was on vacation.
Still need salt, substrate and test kits.

Come Hell or high water, this project WILL be cycling before the 16th! Then it's back to the grind.

https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8622/15521317573_a970d7023c_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/pDyNXF)

[Ram3500]

Look at all those toys new toys. Can you take another picture with them under the Christmas tree :lol:

[WarDog]

Look at all those toys new toys. Can you take another picture with them under the Christmas tree :lol:

Yes Ian, you are right! Where is my holiday spirit?

Here ya go.

https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8654/16142054155_3dcf8a49b1_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/qAqfjx)

[Ram3500]

Yes Ian, you are right! Where is my holiday spirit?

Here ya go.

https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8654/16142054155_3dcf8a49b1_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/qAqfjx)

I don't know what I like more all the sweet toys you got or the stormtrooper hanging in your tree :twised:

[WarDog]

Started wire management yesterday. This is proving quite tedious. Left side almost done.

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7479/16157890555_29859484f2_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/qBPpVV)

Still trying to wrap my head around the right side.

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7575/15970575370_f4c769a059_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/qkgnDL)

Thanks for looking, and a Happy New Year!

[lastlight]

wow your xmas stash is impressive! great job on the cabling you're a step above my tie-wrapping obsession in that you can actually remove your devices for cleaning etc which must be nice lol.

[WarDog]

I don't know what I like more all the sweet toys you got or the stormtrooper hanging in your tree :twised:

Good eye! It wouldn't be Christmas without a little bit of Star Wars!

wow your xmas stash is impressive! great job on the cabling you're a step above my tie-wrapping obsession in that you can actually remove your devices for cleaning etc which must be nice lol.

Lol, I've been collecting all those goodies for the last year and a half... only got the Kessil's for Christmas... which is still a great score.
Gotta give credit to the wife, she's been most generous and supportive!

[WarDog]

Left side pretty much done, I'm happy with it. The fan is going to be a pain in the a** to pull out when it dies though.

https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8588/16133082716_6d51f2a58e_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/qzCgqy)

Right side starting to come together.

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7570/15972799679_aa8dafd9b7_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/qksLRV)

Overall progress thus far.

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7546/15539123933_ce1ec3676a_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/pF95aT)

[Pike]

Its......Beautiful :cry:

[WarDog]

Its......Beautiful :cry:

Thanks Pike, I just wish it was finished!

Right side coming along... I'm just not sure if I can plug the Apex Energy Bar in (and all the probes and modules for that matter) without setting up the Apex first?

Don't want to put the Panduit covers on before all that stuff is hooked up. Any insight would be appreciated.

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7512/16133960576_f832195d0c_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/qzGLo5)

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7541/15972439490_b0be4a12fe_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/qkqVML)

Happy New Year everyone!

[gregzz4]

Lookin' great Warren
I know your dilemma. It's kinda hard to visualize where all the wires will go unless they're already in place

What'd you pay for the Panduit and where from ?

[The Guy]

Nice job Warren, my wiring is kinda spread all over my built in wall cabinet but does the job ok. It is nice to see a tidy wiring job though.

HAPPY NEW YEAR TO EVERYONE

[WarDog]

Lookin' great Warren
I know your dilemma. It's kinda hard to visualize where all the wires will go unless they're already in place

What'd you pay for the Panduit and where from ?

It feels like I'm playing Tetris! I got the panduit from Torbram Electric Supply on Broadway in PoCo, by your work. If I remember correctly, I got 16 feet with covers for less than $40.

Nice job Warren, my wiring is kinda spread all over my built in wall cabinet but does the job ok. It is nice to see a tidy wiring job though.

Thanks Laurie!

[gregzz4]

Hey that's not expensive at all, and you're right I could literally walk there from work
We use it at work but trying to take some home is a nightmare I don't want to go through

Thanks Warren :biggrin:

Happy New Year :drinking: :party:

[WarDog]

Happy New Year Greg, all the best for 2015!

[straightrazorguy]

Panduits rock! I used some on my system.

Anyways, good work Warren. Happy New Year!

[Slyguy00]

Sump area looks awesome!

[WarDog]

Panduits rock! I used some on my system.

Anyways, good work Warren. Happy New Year!

Sump area looks awesome!

Thank-you, and a Happy New Years to you!

Stuffed some more gear in the stand. Just waiting on an Apex PM2 and a Netgear WiFi adaptor to finish all the wiring.
I only have 13 inches of Panduit left over, so that worked out pretty good.
Hard to see, but there are 2 acrylic panels behind the sump hiding a lot of wiring as well.

https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8563/15555638524_ff95003c6a_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/pGAHod)

At the same time I picked up that acrylic, I also picked up a small extra chunk, from which I fabbed a fan deflector.

https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8609/15990686160_eb03f1bbe0_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/qn3rTw)

...and said fan deflector installed.

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7487/16178090185_7503539909_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/qDAWzp)

[Aquattro]

I look at that and can't help but be impressed by the detail. Compared to my dark sump, "in" pipe and "out" pipe, it's a work of art.

Gotta ask tho, 2015 going to be year of the water?? :)

[WarDog]

I look at that and can't help but be impressed by the detail. Compared to my dark sump, "in" pipe and "out" pipe, it's a work of art.

Gotta ask tho, 2015 going to be year of the water?? :)

Thanks Brad, starting to think I am paying too much attention to the detail and it has been slowing me down. Right now I'm getting my butt kicked by the rockwork (pictures to follow).
Luckily the wife just gave me financial freedom to get this thing finished. Back to work on the 19th, so I want to start cycling a few days before that. Just a few more small items and we're golden.
I'm really looking forward to getting aptasia! :)

[Slyguy00]

Badass man! Definitely time for some water fish and coral!

[Aquattro]

Thanks Brad, starting to think I am paying too much attention to the detail and it has been slowing me down.

Well, depends what you want out of a system. For me, the details don't matter. My tank, given all the parts available in the room, could be assembled in 30 minutes.
I just wanted my tank running. Would I like your system if someone else were going to build it for me? Sure!! Just not something I care enough about to actually put time and money into.

And to be honest, you're going to need a heck of a coral display or your cabinet/sump will get more attention!! :) It's probably one of the nicest I've seen.

[gregzz4]

I look at that and can't help but be impressed by the detail. Compared to my dark sump, "in" pipe and "out" pipe, it's a work of art.

Gotta ask tho, 2015 going to be year of the water?? :)
:razz:
My build only took about 5 months War, just sayin ...

[Aquattro]

Mine took a few months too, but due to building the stand and hood. Once that was done, it was quick. I have about 5' of PVC, a couple of 90s and that's it :)

Gravity holds all my cords. I have a baby gate around my controller and reactor lol

[gregzz4]

O M G
I just looked back through your thread, checking to see if this was an extension of another build. Not
:pound:

Time to ramp it up Dog
I mean, sure, the devil's in the details, but May 2013 ??? :lol:

[WarDog]

Yeah you guys are right. It's time to get wet! To be honest, I get a lot of satisfaction out of planning and building, of anything.
My boss expects this kind of attention to detail at work, so I guess it's just natural that it shows up here as well.
This build has been a whole new learning experience for me, plus I love to research. Frankly, due to financial limitations, I've had to take my time... but yeah, May 2013 is too long.

[Aquattro]

It's the weekend, so lots of time to add water now :)

[WarDog]

It's the weekend, so lots of time to add water now :)

Plans for J&L on Monday for salt... I WONT SUCCUMB TO PEER PRESSURE, LOL!!!... but maybe I could fire up the RODI!

[gregzz4]

OK, with financial restrictions I can see a build such as your's taking time
I'll admit I went waaay over budget on mine and it took some time to recover
So I'll give ya some leeway :wink:

Anything left to buy, or is it just build time now ? C'mon c'mon :biggrin:
This is how I spend my work days, being pressured with parts/time restraints

And ya, you've got all night and 2 days :boink:

Honestly though, when do you think you're going to get it salty ? You still have to test your flow - mess with pumps, valves etc ...

At least get the RO running so you're ready
Then you'll get to test out that fancy sliding unit

[gregzz4]

FWIW, I tested my system for the better part of a week with tap water before I came close to considering RO and salt
But it was my first salt system

[WarDog]

OK, with financial restrictions I can see a build such as your's taking time
I'll admit I went waaay over budget on mine and it took some time to recover
So I'll give ya some leeway :wink:

Anything left to buy, or is it just build time now ? C'mon c'mon :biggrin:
This is how I spend my work days, being pressured with parts/time restraints

And ya, you've got all night and 2 days :boink:

Honestly though, when do you think you're going to get it salty ? You still have to test your flow - mess with pumps, valves etc ...

At least get that RO running so you're ready

I'm on vacation until the 19th, so plenty of time, no excuses left.

Still need:

Apex PM2
Netgear wifi
Salt
Test kits
ATO and dosing hoses
Probe holder
Substrate

Pocket change really!

[Aquattro]

Plans for J&L on Monday for salt... I WONT SUCCUMB TO PEER PRESSURE, LOL!!!... but maybe I could fire up the RODI!

Nah, no pressure.

Oh, checked their site

Hours:
Mon - Fri: 11:00 - 8:00 PT
Saturday: 11:00 - 6:00 PT
Sunday: Noon - 5:00 PT
Holidays: Noon - 5:00 PT

Open tomorrow :)

[Aquattro]

FWIW, I tested my system for the better part of a week with tap water before I came close to considering RO and salt
But it was my first salt system

I tested this system by filling it with salt water and crossing fingers. Worked like a charm :)

[WarDog]

Nah, no pressure.

Oh, checked their site

Hours:
Mon - Fri: 11:00 - 8:00 PT
Saturday: 11:00 - 6:00 PT
Sunday: Noon - 5:00 PT
Holidays: Noon - 5:00 PT

Open tomorrow :)

STOP TEMPTING ME!!! Lol. Maybe I should do it just to shut you guys up!!! :)

[Aquattro]

Maybe I should do it just to shut you guys up!!! :)

That would work..

[WarDog]

FWIW, I tested my system for the better part of a week with tap water before I came close to considering RO and salt
But it was my first salt system

I tested it with tap water like a month ago, then added some heat and vinegar, where have you been?... oh wait, you've got the ebola... so I guess I'll let it slide :)

[Aquattro]

Don't mind me. I'm the impatient type. I had rocks and water in before the overflows were attached. And the whole tank was running across the room from where it was going. Had to drain and drag to get it in place :)

[WarDog]

Don't mind me. I'm the impatient type. I had rocks and water in before the overflows were attached. And the whole tank was running across the room from where it was going. Had to drain and drag to get it in place :)

Yeah... that totally wouldn't slide with my wife.

[Aquattro]

Yeah... that totally wouldn't slide with my wife.

I'm lucky, my wife is almost as bad as me, and a lot more patient. She needs that around here lol

[gregzz4]

I tested it with tap water like a month ago, then added some heat and vinegar, where have you been?... oh wait, you've got the ebola... so I guess I'll let it slide :)
Yup, I'm sure I've missed lots on the Ol' Canreef lately what with my H1N5.4v2.3, combined with the rest of the chicken/pig/airplane modified stuff. Honestly, I've had the flu over the years, but this is the worst ever since I was a kid
So I didn't think you'd tested as I don't see your plumbing completed yet

Don't mind me. I'm the impatient type. I had rocks and water in before the overflows were attached. And the whole tank was running across the room from where it was going. Had to drain and drag to get it in place :)
Brad gets away with all kinds of things and his tank forgives him ... kinda like a push ... so he can rib the rest of us on and watch our mistakes
Oh wait, that's not true lately. NM

[Aquattro]

Brad gets away with all kinds of things and his tank forgives him ... kinda like a push ... so he can rib the rest of us on and watch our mistakes
Oh wait, that's not true lately. NM

That's the old Brad. The new Brad kills everything and makes a mess. Trying to get old Brad back :)

[WarDog]

So I broke down (I blame Brad and Greg) and went to J&L for the last few items. Installed the Apex PM2, and all the final plumbing bits.
Just waiting on J&L in regards to bringing in some substrate and Best Buy to deliver the WiFi module.
Obviously those last two items are not needed to start the RO/DI, however the rockwork is.
The centre brace is in the way of dropping the completed structure into the tank, so it needs to be built 'in tank'. I'd rather not do that underwater.
Hung one of the Kessils just to see what it looked like.
Dirty dirty glass.

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7519/16012556130_fb3bfb05d0_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/qoYx4Y)

[krazykarl]

Clean looking setup. Will be tagging along as I am still working on my 65 gallon tall. I am also running two 360.

[Bblinks]

Started this thread at 12 and now it's 1:30, have to be up for work at 7 but what the heck.
Very nice build Warren, the sump area is one of the nicest I have ever seen, most people I have met can give a rats a$$ what their sump area looks like or even knows that they have a sump until they have to empty out the skimmer cup but you make it look like a work of art, amazing! I also admire your level of patients. I know I couldn't wait that long to see water in the tank. My recent build took matter of days before it was turn key and fired up. Lol guess brad and I have the same problem. I do however keep a fairly tidy sump area since I am a big fan of sump area and individual filtration systems, everyone is different on their hobbandary and every time I visit other reefers I always look at the health of the tank and immediately follow by "can I check out your sump" lol

Anyways, great job on the tank and now LETS SEE SOME DAMN WATER! :mrgreen:

[WarDog]

Thanks Rich, kind words. Sorry to have kept you from your sleep, lol. I look forward to the days of trading frags with you.

[WarDog]

My first attempt at the dosing lines were getting in the way of removing the skimmer cup, and looked funny IMO.

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7557/16210492882_9204c0b571_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/qGt1LA)

...so they just needed to be slightly altered. I'll do the same for the dosing containers.

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7526/16209419391_4ac5afbf31_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/qGnvE8)

End of day today.

https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8565/16025477257_4f6f39669a_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/qq7L52)

[Aquattro]

Where's the water?

[WarDog]

Where's the water?

J&L were out of IO... so blame Jeff!

[Bblinks]

J&L were out of IO... so blame Jeff!

I gotta an extra bucket at home that you can borrow....:twised:

[WarDog]

I gotta an extra bucket at home that you can borrow....:twised:

You've been talking to Brad and Greg haven't you? :lol:

[Aquattro]

You've been talking to Brad and Greg haven't you? :lol:

It's a conspiracy!!

[lastlight]

impressive that sump was laid out with a protractor lol.

[NIVLEM09]

I'm hiring Wardog to do the plumbing on my next build.that's one clean set up...really nice!

[WarDog]

impressive that sump was laid out with a protractor lol.

Thanks, I only hope my display can look as nice as yours one day!

I'm hiring Wardog to do the plumbing on my next build.that's one clean set up...really nice!

Anytime man... I work for Timmy's triple triples!

[NIVLEM09]

Thanks, I only hope my display can look as nice as yours one day!



Anytime man... I work for Timmy's triple triples!

Ooohhhh,I'm willing to offer a Johnnie Walker blue label😊

[WarDog]

Ooohhhh,I'm willing to offer a Johnnie Walker blue label��

Johnnie Walker rents a room in my house. He only shows up about once a month and is gone by morning... and always leaves a hell of a mess. His friends are always welcome however!:lol:

[Bblinks]

https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8565/16025477257_4f6f39669a_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/qq7L52)

Warren, I don't think that Apex control module would do well inside the cabinet. I had my shorted out and made the whole house smelled like burnt electronics. Wife was not thrilled. Just a thought.

BTW, the Vancouver island reefers has unanimously voted your sump to be the sump of the year on their facebook page. :smilecol: The request they had is to change your cabinet doors to ultra clear glass instead. :mrgreen: I personally think it is a great idea.

[lastlight]

where did you get that medical tubing? I'm thinking about how much better that would reduce my noise/vibrations compared to the flex pvc i'm currently using.

[Bblinks]

where did you get that medical tubing? I'm thinking about how much better that would reduce my noise/vibrations compared to the flex pvc i'm currently using.

Green line hoses or Newline hoses in Burnaby and Vancouver.

[lastlight]

wonder if they'll ship? thx for the info.

[Bblinks]

wonder if they'll ship? thx for the info.

Not too sure but I can always pick it up and ship it to you.

[lastlight]

Thx for the offer I'll try my best to not hassle you or at the very least choose something else to mess with on my tank lol. Before I end this threadjacking... is there a term to describe what this tubing is exactly?

[Bblinks]

Thx for the offer I'll try my best to not hassle you or at the very least choose something else to mess with on my tank lol. Before I end this threadjacking... is there a term to describe what this tubing is exactly?

Here (http://www.new-line.com/hose/tubing/latex/amber-latex-medical-tubing)

[WarDog]

Green line hoses or Newline hoses in Burnaby and Vancouver.

Yes! I got it from New Line Hoses in Surrey. http://www.new-line.com/hose/tubing/latex/amber-latex-medical-tubing

Rich, sending you a PM.

[lastlight]

are you just using standard black tie wraps to secure the hoses?

[WarDog]

are you just using standard black tie wraps to secure the hoses?

Yup, didn't want to put hose clamps in the water. The tubing makes a nice snug fit on the barbs so I'm not too worried. Seemed to be fine during the leak test.

[WarDog]

BTW, the Vancouver island reefers has unanimously voted your sump to be the sump of the year on their facebook page. :smilecol: The request they had is to change your cabinet doors to ultra clear glass instead. :mrgreen: I personally think it is a great idea.

Rich, could you provide a link for this group? I can't seem to find them on FB, I'd like to thank them for the honour!

I thought about glass doors, but obviously I want the focus on the display... but I may reconsider.

[Bblinks]

Try here (https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=10152510282052007&set=gm.1603490753214061&type=1&theater)

[lastlight]

Yup, didn't want to put hose clamps in the water. The tubing makes a nice snug fit on the barbs so I'm not too worried. Seemed to be fine during the leak test.

Nice I'll do the same if I pull the trigger.

$45 for 3 feet shipped isn't exactly cheap and I don't even know if it will solve my vibration issue. It should help I'd think...

[WarDog]

Nice I'll do the same if I pull the trigger.

$45 for 3 feet shipped isn't exactly cheap and I don't even know if it will solve my vibration issue. It should help I'd think...

It's expensive stuff to be sure, but when used in conjunction with a foam media block under the pump, it solved ALL my noise and vibration issues. I highly recommend!

[WarDog]

Try here (https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=10152510282052007&set=gm.1603490753214061&type=1&theater)

Thanks Rich, but it didn't work. What's their official name? Is it the buy and sell group?

[Bblinks]

Sent you a request on facebook and also a link to the page.

[WarDog]

Getting really close to salty... I swear!

Wasn't too thrilled with Kessils mounting option on the tanks rim. If I cut the trim, the metal bracket would be in the water, not an option.

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7545/16217627816_4925937766_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/qH6zJG)

So I decided to go full ghetto, and whipped up a quick solution. It's given me piece of mind.

https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8643/16055985968_3e6435d59b_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/qsP8fh)

Finished the ATO plumbing. Other than the skimmer overflow, all the plumbing is now complete.

https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8561/15623648683_10f6c3e817_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/pNBhra)

Would you believe I couldn't find a 3/8th barb/barb elbow anywhere?

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7483/16057684657_13e13d88d8_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/qsXQd2)

I'm not sure who invented this crappy paper backing stuff for acrylic (probably Mr. Dow or Mr. Corning I assume), but if I ever meet him, I'm going to punch him out.

https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8579/15621102384_0a41b29104_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/pNoevs)

Drill, drill, zip!

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7483/16057390809_6ca0c79a6a_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/qsWjRF)

Click, click, click.

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7540/16243526765_ed6ee4d07d_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/qKojAi)

Ohhhh, gummy worms!

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7475/16057537179_a57a081045_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/qsX5ni)

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7522/16056280680_3428d290c6_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/qsQCRw)

Another creation, but I'm not sure if I'm going to use it.

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7572/15591448543_61bbe909c3_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/pKLfsk)

More to follow. Thanks for looking.

[lastlight]

that's a really nice tower. bonus points for making it a safe one too.

[Bblinks]

So close to water I can almost taste the salt... Looks great buddy! This is your last week of holidays isn't it?! :lol:

[WarDog]

that's a really nice tower. bonus points for making it a safe one too.

Thanks!

So close to water I can almost taste the salt... Looks great buddy! This is your last week of holidays isn't it?! :lol:

Thanks! Back to work in 9 days.... the heat is on!

[krazykarl]

Hello,

I had the same issue with mounting my Kessil's. I made a crude adjustable light mount with a 2x4 which I mounted to the back of the stand. I slotted the vertical 2x4 so i can move it up and down to find the right height for the lights. I then put a 1x4 horizontal at the top where I mounted the Kessil's to. It works and no one can see it.

Regards

[The Guy]

I'm not sure who invented this crappy paper backing stuff for acrylic (probably Mr. Dow or Mr. Corning I assume), but if I ever meet him, I'm going to punch him out. I find if the acrylic is older stock the paper is the pits to get off. Water soon? Looks great and will be worth the wait I'm sure.

[WarDog]

Hello,

I had the same issue with mounting my Kessil's. I made a crude adjustable light mount with a 2x4 which I mounted to the back of the stand. I slotted the vertical 2x4 so i can move it up and down to find the right height for the lights. I then put a 1x4 horizontal at the top where I mounted the Kessil's to. It works and no one can see it.

Regards

Wow, your solution sounds a lot fancier than mine Karl. Can't see mine from the front either, which is a bonus!

I find if the acrylic is older stock the paper is the pits to get off. Water soon? Looks great and will be worth the wait I'm sure.

Yeah Laurie, it took hours to get that crap off. RODI is getting fired up in the next day or two.

[gregzz4]

Getting exciting

[WarDog]

Getting exciting

Yes it is! Here are a few more pics of rockwork. I'm liking how easy it is to work with the acrylic bases.

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7503/15647926083_ec735c79a2_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/pQKHg2)

https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8635/16266993542_cebbda6348_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/qMsArU)

https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8593/16081706339_ec4dc5e778_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/qv5X1X)

What do you guys think of this structure? Lots of good places for SPS.

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7521/16267823965_8a9b6bbb65_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/qMwRix)

[Bblinks]

Looks good Warren! I think it's very unique and it will make an interesting piece. Keep up the great work!

[Madreefer]

Cool sculpture. Will it need something to hold up that left side?

[kien]

whoa! That is cool and crazy ! Can't wait to see that submersed in water! :biggrin:

[WarDog]

Looks good Warren! I think it's very unique and it will make an interesting piece. Keep up the great work!

whoa! That is cool and crazy ! Can't wait to see that submersed in water! :biggrin:

Unique and crazy is what I've been aiming for, Thanks!

[WarDog]

Cool sculpture. Will it need something to hold up that left side?

Preliminary air tunnel tests show that it might, that is maybe, possibly, hopefully stand up on its own. Kinda. :noidea: Lol.
May have to add more to the right side for balance.

[lastlight]

epoxy the acrylic base to the glass you will never need to worry (unless you like to move your scape around... then you'll be hooped). great looking piece you made.

[The Guy]

I wouldn't epoxy it down your sand should hold it in place I would say, nice job Warren!

[Reef Pilot]

Velcro?

[WarDog]

Can't wait to see that submersed in water! :biggrin:

Kien, I just figured out you were being sarcastic there! You cheeky monkey!

Frankly yeah, I'm pretty sick and tired of playing with rockwork now. Screw it. This piece does stand up on its own, so that's it. Time for water. Firing up the RODI.

Any more changes will just have to be made underwater.

https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8645/16088810789_00b0a3753f_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/qvHmVt)

[kien]

Actually I wasn't being sarcastic at all. I really do want to see that structure underwater. It's going to look cool. Then add fish swimming in and among the branches and it's going to be quite something to behold! Love those branches.

[WarDog]

Actually I wasn't being sarcastic at all.

Just goes to prove that tone cannot be interpreted over the interweb. Opps Kien, my bad.

For all of you, including myself, who thought this build would never see water, I am pleased to post this pic!

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7554/15653513754_e6920c6156_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/pRfmhb)

[gregzz4]

What's the rush ? Nothing good in this hobby happens quickly.

Err, I mean, YEAH !!!
Congrats Dog

[kien]

I'm curious as to why the return pump is on its side like that? Sorry if I missed that explanation in the thread.

[Bblinks]

Glorious day! May this day forever to be remembered as WarDog water day!

[WarDog]

I'm curious as to why the return pump is on its side like that? Sorry if I missed that explanation in the thread.

That's the skimmer pump. Maximum area on the media foam. Found that it was more stable.

[lockrookie]

Don't forget to pee in the tank helps with cycle lol looks awesome glad to see it wetish

[WarDog]

Glorious day! May this day forever to be remembered as WarDog water day!

Haha, thanks buddy! All I can hear is Jeopardy music playing in my head.

[kien]

That's the skimmer pump. Maximum area on the media foam. Found that it was more stable.

huh, I never thought of that. Great idea.

[WarDog]

Don't forget to pee in the tank helps with cycle lol looks awesome glad to see it wetish

Don't give me misinformation like that, I might have just done it. Lol!

huh, I never thought of that. Great idea.

When your tank build goes over 2 and a 1/2 years, you end up doing a lot of R & D. :lol:

[lockrookie]

Don't give me misinformation like that, I might have just done it. Lol!




Well it's not entirely mis information lol a lot of ppl have done it to start the cycle process personally I wouldn't but it's still funny would rather see you use prodibio or microbacter 7... But search the forum the other method has been discussed lol

[WarDog]

Well it's not entirely mis information lol a lot of ppl have done it to start the cycle process personally I wouldn't but it's still funny would rather see you use prodibio or microbacter 7... But search the forum the other method has been discussed lol

Yes I know, lol. I plan on using Prodibio.

Just a flurry of activity around the house today! Sump is full, ATO filling now. Going to fill the tank overnight.

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7525/16090875369_9563923b2a_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/qvTWDF)

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7484/15657117803_bfe0c21956_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/pRyPCX)

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7504/15654577144_a299cf3af7_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/pRkNou)

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7576/16251060186_a7b4a89d64_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/qL3W1S)

https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8614/16090872579_7b13acea3c_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/qvTVPz)

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7492/16089456458_5f331317cd_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/qvLERG)

https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8674/16276997185_e0ec4c3d67_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/qNkSbv)

[CM125]

In fop updates, very curious how the red pvc holds up as its not rated for plumbing. But if it does im totally copying you!!!

[Pike]

ooooh we are getting closer nice!. That branching rock would look cool covered in corals , maybe a bunch of chalices on them . Are you going LPS ?

[WarDog]

In fop updates, very curious how the red pvc holds up as its not rated for plumbing. But if it does im totally copying you!!!

So far so good. It is PVC so there is no issue with the glue. As far as I am aware, the only reason it's not approved for potable plumbing is because inspectors cannot see the primer and glue. Maybe also because there are no certification stamps either. The only reason PVC primer is purple is so the inspector can see that it has been used.

ooooh we are getting closer nice!. That branching rock would look cool covered in corals , maybe a bunch of chalices on them . Are you going LPS ?

Thanks Pike, mostly SPS for this tank. My next tank, which is in the planning stage, will be a LPS dominated tank!

[WarDog]

Very busy weekend. After receiving critiques that the rocks were too high, I cut them down and am very happy with the results.
Brought temp up to 77, and salinity up to 34ppt (IO). pH 8.1 - 8.23. Started Zeovit 14 day dosing cycle.
Got all the Apex gear hooked up and programmed, mostly. Still need to figure out how to hook up the WiFi (it didn't work the first time I tried), and alerts.
MP40 set for a nice gentle wave at 30% with a 3/4 inch crest. Wife hasn't mentioned the noise, so I think that'll be ok.
Skimmer spitting out many micro bubbles. Can't seem to get it dialed in, and cup overflows. Tried all different settings but I guess it's part of the break in period. I'll mess around with it in a week.
Ended up going with special grade substrate. Going to start recording major params tomorrow.
Thinking I may go several weeks before introducing any livestock, once again I am in no rush.

Tinker with this, tinker with that, damn it's a lot of work getting a tank running!!

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7558/16129215569_808e9a99fb_o.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/qzhrRB)

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7529/16127845958_4334a027d6_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/qzaqHC) https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7500/16128013170_6a27d0549c_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/qzbhqA)

Tanks first inhabitant.

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7497/16129215529_f6eae55b9d_o.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/qzhrQV)

[Bblinks]

I gotta say that rock work is way better than what it was not from an artistic view but rather a more practical real estate for Sps to grow mature. Thumbs up buddy👍👍!

[WarDog]

I gotta say that rock work is way better than what it was not from an artistic view but rather a more practical real estate for Sps to grow mature. Thumbs up buddy����!

Thanks Rich! I am already planning a second tank for LPS... which means this one can be reserved for SPS ONLY (and zoas)!! Pretty excited! Now where to get my hands on some Pink Floyd, Wolverine and Strawberry Shortcake?.... buuuuuuddy, lol!

[WarDog]

Day 21 of the cycle and I can't really report... anything.

No diatoms, no cyano... sooooo boring! All of a sudden I have no patience.

Nitrite .5 ppm Salifert
Nitrate 50 ppm Salifert
Ammonia undetectable API test and Alert Badge
Phosphate .03 ppm Salifert
Temp 78 Apex
Salinity 35.6 ppt Apex, 1.026 refractometer
pH 8.1 Apex
Tried testing Alk with Salifert and came up with 9.3. Don't think I did it right and now I want a Hanna, lol.
Using Instant Ocean

Dosing:
ZeoBak 3 drops Sundays, Tuesdays and Fridays
Sponge Power 3 drops per day
ZeoStart .3ml X2 daily
Rich's skimate 1 cap full per day lol.

My 12 gallon ATO reservoir lasts 10 days, not bad.

Skimmer seems broken in but not fully tuned yet, I think it needs to be raised up an inch or two.

Working on a fish and invertebrate stocking list.

In the meantime Rich is growing out some frags for me (jk), lol.:lol:

[Bblinks]

No no no....Peter Apexfd is growing frags out for you. Lol

I should start bottling up that skimmate and sell it as a cycle accerlator. Bank roll on it. :mrgreen:

[WarDog]

I should start bottling up that skimmate and sell it as a cycle accerlator. Bank roll on it. :mrgreen:

I can only think of the Buckleys commercial, it tastes awful but it works! Lol

[Bblinks]

I can only think of the Buckleys commercial, it tastes awful but it works! Lol

Lmao!

[daplatapus]

Awesome seeing water in that baby.

[gregzz4]

Tried testing Alk with Salifert and came up with 9.3. Don't think I did it right and now I want a Hanna, lol.
Did you try using the reference in the kit ?
If you can get 6.7dkh with it then you'll know you're following their instructions correctly

[WarDog]

Awesome seeing water in that baby.

Thanks Dap, it's been a long road. Hopefully this time next year I will have figured out how to keep corals successfully.

Did you try using the reference in the kit ?
If you can get 6.7dkh with it then you'll know you're following their instructions correctly

Ahhhh nope. Guess I should do that eh? Stupid Noob!

[gregzz4]

Stupid Noob!
Nope, just Noob :smile:
You're a Man, and we don't read instructions very well :boink:

[WarDog]

Tank is now 29 days old.

Still kinda boring, however, no2 and no3 are finally dropping over the past week.

no2 : 0.25 ppm
no3 : 25 ppm
ammonia still 0
po4 still 0.03 ppm
Alk : 6.8 (Thanks Greg for the tip)

Still need to pick up kits for Calcium and Mg. (or just mooch off my LFS just to upset Brad, lol)

Used up all of Rich's Miracle Skimate Cycle Accelerator.
Continuing to dose Zeo products as listed before.
Started dosing ZeoFood and then... BOOM!

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7309/16345627068_29be881878_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/qUpBsm)

It's alive! Not sure if it's diatoms or cyano (guessing diatoms), but either way I'll take it!

Added a fish today, really hoping the little guy will be ok. I was on the fence about adding him.
I'll get him a buddy once I'm confident with my chemistry.

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7446/16532261822_01fc1eb92b_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/rbUasW)

Thanks for looking.

[WarDog]

...and a boring FTS as we are updating things.

https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8655/16532571142_8d23230ee1_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/rbVKq3)

[gregzz4]

Woohoo, your first critter :smile: (dead shrimps don't count)

Such a big change in your Alk from 9.3 to 6.8 ...

So ... are you gonna bring that up a tad ? It's close enough, but once you start adding corals that 6.8 doesn't leave you much room for it to dip low ...
And it helps keep your pH up don'cha know

That stuff on the sand looks to me to be diatoms, if I'm seeing it right
Welcome to the next cycle :biggrin:

Lovin' the sexy sump

[Howie]

Tank looks good so far. I'm at the lovely diatom stage myself right now. :D

[Tn23]

Wow Warren... that is a REALLY clean Sump. Wish I could rig something like that up!
Trade you some frags if you help me? :) LOL!

[WarDog]

Woohoo, your first critter :smile: (dead shrimps don't count)

Such a big change in your Alk from 9.3 to 6.8 ...

So ... are you gonna bring that up a tad ? It's close enough, but once you start adding corals that 6.8 doesn't leave you much room for it to dip low ...
And it helps keep your pH up don'cha know

That stuff on the sand looks to me to be diatoms, if I'm seeing it right
Welcome to the next cycle :biggrin:

Lovin' the sexy sump

Thanks Greg!

Tank is going to stay fish only for a bit.
My first water change is coming up in 2 weeks, so I need to perfect my water change method. Want to do 25% every two weeks.
Secondly (depending on when I might pick up someone's birdsnest, cough, cough), I need to stock up on my bulk supplies and figure out how to use the Libra properly.
Still a huge learning curve for me buddy and I gots of take it slow ('cause I'm getting old and things take longer to sink in) lol.
pH is holding between 8.04 and 8.16.