30 Gallon Long AIO? - noob

[Jpeg08]

Looking to get my first SWT. I have read through the READ FIRST section and found it super helpful!

 

I wanted to get an AIO and really like the biocude 32 but i can’t fit something that deep in the space i have. Been looking for an AIO that is around that price range can go up a bit more but can’t really afford the other one i like the look of - fluval m90. Think i might need to build one and that is kind of scary. So i come to you all for help!

 

what i am looking for is something like the following:

• Ideally i would have a 30 gallon tank.
• Something like the evo or fusion where the filtration unit is within the tank - side or back. (Was thinking of doing the black sponge foam and live rock.)
• LED lighting that can grow coral, has various lighting options and a timer.

 

I know i need the following:

• Heater 
• thermometer
• test kit
• powerheads for water flow and salt mixing
• RO/DI
• Buckets
• syphon
• live rock and sand

 

my plan:

• do loads more research!!!!
• Get a tank up and running for a month or two before i add coral and fish. But do want to add a CUC somewhere in there.
• start out with basic fish and coral after the summer when i have a solid tank going - adding little by little.

 

What am i missing to get the tank cycle going? 

 

Thanks for all your help! Super excited!

 

 

 

[A Little Blue]

I would start with a budget that will get your tank of choice, light that will support coral growth, good heater/heater controller and basic test kit. That’s where most of your initial budget should go. 

[Jpeg08]

Thanks, A Little Blue!

 

If i drop 600 on the things you mentioned how much on top do you think I will need not including coral or fish (but maybe a CUC).

 

[A Little Blue]

11 minutes ago, Jpeg08 said:

Thanks, A Little Blue!

 

If i drop 600 on the things you mentioned how much on top do you think I will need not including coral or fish (but maybe a CUC).

 

Clean up crew isn’t that expensive. Several cups of coffee at the most. 

600 for light/tank/heater is doable. 

I would get the tank/heater new and try to find better light on second hand market. Down the road, you can invest in ATO and RODI filter. This hobby gets as expansive as you want it to be and quick. 

[Jpeg08]

20 minutes ago, A Little Blue said:

second hand market

you have a second hand site you trust?

 

[Ranjib]

Light will be stretching the budget under 600$. Also what about filtration? chemical media? skimmers? I would also add an ATO as a must have.

[A Little Blue]

1 hour ago, Jpeg08 said:

you have a second hand site you trust?

 

Depends where you live. I live n NYC and we have our own local forum and number of reef clubs.  You should google if there are any in your area. Also,  people sell equipment on forums like this one. I usually buy used locally tho. 

[A Little Blue]

48 minutes ago, Ranjib said:

Light will be stretching the budget under 600$. Also what about filtration? chemical media? skimmers? I would also add an ATO as a must have.

Chemical filtration is not a big coin and skimmer isn’t necessary at this stage. Some, do without one without issues.  All depends on the approach. ATO ....... yeah, that is a must down the road. 

[Jpeg08]

24 minutes ago, A Little Blue said:

I live n NYC

me too. would love to pick your brain a bit about places in the city. Pacific is where i have been checking out for coral and fish. the local forum sounds awesome! is that on this site?

 

was thinking of holding off on the skimmer, RODI and ATO until later. 

 

Thanks again for your help!

 

[A Little Blue]

14 minutes ago, Jpeg08 said:

me too. would love to pick your brain a bit about places in the city. Pacific is where i have been checking out for coral and fish. the local forum sounds awesome! is that on this site?

 

was thinking of holding off on the skimmer, RODI and ATO until later. 

 

Thanks again for your help!

 

There are few decent stores in the city. Manhattan Aquariums is probably at the top. I usually get my corals from fellow reefers or reef stores on Long Island. 

I will send you a private link to where you can look for used equipment, corals in the area. 

 

Yes, you can put off skimmer (not sure if you need it), ATO or RODI for later on. Getting $ for everything on your wish list all at once can be hard. I totally get it. 

Check your message box in a bit.