Things are almost ready for me to start up my tank and I want to make sure my equipment list is on the right track. I have some things currently that I can swap around if it might be 'better' than what I have.
20 gallon long glass
Nova Extreme SLR T-5 96 watt
Emperor 400(Will be run without biowheels)
Aquaclear 20
Aquatech 10-20
150watt heater(This looks like its to long for my 20l. I had this when I was originally gonna go with a regular 20. Will probably replace. I have a spare around here I got when I bought some other stuff, dont know the wattage on it though)
Dive Power 85 powerhead
I really could look at what would be preferable for flow since I have a few different things floating around here from me picking up various aquarium things and getting extras.
Also, whats one one of the more accurate test kits?
Full Version: Making sure I'm on the right track
i have been happy with the api test kits (the dropper ones, not the paper strips) and they are pretty reasonably priced too.
Most heaters can be fully submerged. If this is the case with yours, you can run it horizontal behind your rock work.
What seabass said.
API is the cheaper of the reliable test kits. Avoid Red Sea kits, total garbage.
API is the cheaper of the reliable test kits. Avoid Red Sea kits, total garbage.
QUOTE (Orphicdragon @ Nov 13 2009, 01:31 PM) 
What seabass said.
API is the cheaper of the reliable test kits. Avoid Red Sea kits, total garbage.
API is the cheaper of the reliable test kits. Avoid Red Sea kits, total garbage.
Didnt think about that with the heater. Thanks
Will the Emperor plus a powerhead or two to take care of dead spots be plenty of flow?
An HOB filter and a couple of powerheads should do the trick. I didn't take the time to look up and compute the total gallons per hour of all of your flow devices, but it should be at least 400gph with 600 (up to 800) gph being even better. I personally like the flow created by HOB filters and propeller powerheads (like a Koralia), but any powerhead that provides flow will work fine.
QUOTE (seabass @ Nov 13 2009, 03:37 PM)
An HOB filter and a couple of powerheads should do the trick. I didn't take the time to look up and compute the total gallons per hour of all of your flow devices, but it should be at least 400gph with 600 (up to 800) gph being even better. I personally like the flow created by HOB filters and propeller powerheads (like a Koralia), but any powerhead that provides flow will work fine.
The Emperor is rated at 400, I'll probably pick up a Koralia or two to fix any dead spots and get proper flow going and unload the other stuff with the other tank I'm selling.
Keep in mind that HOB filters create downward flow that can disturb some sand beds. However, some strategically placed rocks (and high water line) should be enough to solve that issue.
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