What do you think of this idea?

[rotomas]

I've been thinking about how to set up my first nano-reef and I'm wondering if this is a good idea or not:

 

I plan on using a 12-gallon Eclipse and removing the bio-wheel from the built-in filter. Instead of using a powerhead for additional water movement, I want to try and use a small external cannister filter (like the Fluval 104 or Eheim 2211) with the output routed 90 degrees to the Eclipse filter. This way I get the bonus of extra filtration as well as water movement.

 

Also, do you have any ideas for hiding the heater with this setup? I want to try and keep it as clean-looking as possible and the heater sticks out like a sore thumb. Thanks.

[BustytheSnowMaam]

You might consider ditching the Eclipse altogether, it takes a lot of effort to retrofit (adding lighting, etc) to make a good nano. There have been a lot of others who have posted awhile back about what a pain they are and why. They look sleek but are not very practical. And, the acrylic scratches easily.

 

I would suggest maybe going with a 10, using LR for filtration, and making a DIY canopy. I think you can get HOB filters (Tetra makes one?) that have a heater hidden inside. My LR hides my heater well, so it isn't an eyesore.

Tasha

[tinyreef]

someone mentioned some the eheims can hold heaters now if you want to try that. otherwise a small thin heater placed in the filter cartridge area in lieu of the media. (those new titanium heaters may fit)

 

i'm assuming you've already figured out a way to keep the return pointed into the media holding area. pointing a 104 or other canister's flow into the eclipse's setup may cause significant splash (salt creep & lighting fixture issues). thing is with that option is that all the water canister & eclipse is now flowing out of the eclipse's spout (may be too much in that area). getting 2~3 rios gives you more options and costs way less than even the 104. tie them to a wavemaker and you've got currents/tides.

[NaNO ReeFiN]

I second the idea of ditching the eclipse tank altogether. It's not worth your time and effort to be messing around with an acrylic tank for a nano. GO GLASS, you'll be glad you did.. and might I recommend a 20gal. Long...

[Pooky125]

Eclipse makes a glass tank... they have a 12, a 25, and a 37...

[rotomas]

Thanks for the advice everyone. I decided to save a little money and use the 10 gallon all-glass that I already have. So far I've put in 20 lbs live sand and 15 lbs of live rock. Instead of the canistser filter, I've decided to use a Power Sweep 212 rotating powerhead. I'm going to get some new batteries for my digi camera right now, I'll post a pic as soon as I get one. Thanks again for the help.