Please critique this build.

Komisar · 04-12-2007, 12:37 PM

I'm setting up my first reef tank. I've read a lot but I don't know if this combination of parts will work well together. Here's what I'm thinking. (This will be a softie/ fish tank)

AGA 120RR tank/ matching stand- this is the only piece I have so far
ES Hopps 30" refugium/sump combo
Ehiem 1262 return pump
2 Ebo Jager 150w heaters
Tek T-5 6 bulb light
Tunze 9010 protein skimmer
Reefkeeper II
2 Maxi Jet 1200 with the mj mod for 1500gph

I don't know if the powerheads will work with the reefkeeper. I picked the sump since it looks like I can fit it in through the doors, that has been a concern finding a sump that I will be able to remove if I have to.

If this combination of parts doesn't look so hot do you have any recommendations of replacements? I haven't bought anything but the tank yet so I have a clean slate and would like to do this right the first time.

jtReef · 04-12-2007, 02:02 PM

Looks good to me.
If you are going to go with sps coral in the future you will want to change out the mj 1200's for something more powerfull. But for the price of the mj 1200's and the fact that they can be put on a wave maker it works out well.

Otty · 04-12-2007, 06:11 PM

If you have done the MJ Mod where there is a remote control boat prop on the shaft you won't be able to use that on a wavemaker that turns on and off. The AC power can turn that Magnetic motor either way so if there is nothing to stop it from running in reverse it will. It may not every time but believe me it will, I have one that I use for saltwater mixes.
Your post says that the tank is RR, just make sure that your overflow can syphon out what your return pump is putting in (Ehiem 1262). Just something to keep in mind. Everything else seems like a killer start.

Komisar · 04-12-2007, 07:36 PM

Is there a better choice in powerheads that will work with a controller? Do I need a controller or should I just let the powerheads run continuously? Or just get more and not mod them?

I'm also open for suggestions on the pump. The overflows are supposed to be 600gph each.

Otty · 04-13-2007, 12:12 PM

I have a WaveMaker on my 55 gal with 3 MJ1200's and it works fine, it's just the mod one you will need to run all the time. There is a stopper you can glue in there if you have the right housing that will not let it go backwards. I had to put one in mine because it started backwards all the time.