new nano reefer here with some questions

[lefty99]

Hey guys and gals. Im am new to saltwater. Been doing freshwater ever since I was 14. I've always wanted to try saltwater but had always been discouraged because back then nano tanks weren't as popular and I was always suggested to start out with a 60gal or bigger. I have limited space so thats why I want to do nano. Anyways my questions are do I need any kind of mechanical filtration when cycling? Or can I just get away with saltwater live rok and live sand and two koralia powerhead for now. Im on a tight budget with the holidays coming soon too so I was planning on getting led lights and protien skimmer down the road. I have a 28 bow front that im turning into nano reef. I plan on setting up a display refugium next to the tank later on also. Has anyone try setting up one of those fluval tank as a refugium?

[jolee0722]

Welcome to Nano-reef! I suggest waiting for the black Friday sales. There are huge discounts at online stores during this time.

[lefty99]

Unfortunately majority of my money on black Friday is going to end up spending on gifts for others.

[CronicReefer]

For cycling you are fine with what you have. I would get a good protein skimmer before anything else because you could run a Berlin Method filtration system until you get your refugium up and running.

[lefty99]

Yea refugium wont be setup for awhile. So for cycling what I have now is ok? What lights should I get? Led or t5.

[CronicReefer]

LED or T5 is just personal preference. Just research the pros and cons of each and pick what you like best.

[lefty99]

Thanks for the info

[CronicReefer]

How many lbs of live rock do you have btw?

[lefty99]

Only 15# right now but im gEttinger more

[CronicReefer]

I would probably get another 10-15lbs to help establish a larger biofilter.

[Takami]

Hi, I am new to this hobby too. I have been watching on used item...but like to buy new too to reduce headahce.... So I want to see how the price would be lower on Black Friday...may I ask which web sites you would pay attention on? I could only think of "Marixxxxpot.com". Any other sites you would suggest?

 

Thanks

[ninjamyst]

you should run filter floss during cycling but no need for carbon / purigen / etc. The trend is now for less rock instead of a wall of rocks.

 

as for sites during Black Friday, check out the sponsors on this forum. inTank is pretty good. I also use Dr Foster and Smith because of free shipping over $50.

 

but if you really want cheap equipment, find a local reef club or forum and ask for help. you will be surprised at how generous local reefers are. most of them have extra equipment / corals they dont need and will give away for free or very cheap to new reefers.