Need Direction

I'm looking to start a salt water tank. I have a 55g tank right now.....what steps should I take to convert to salt water.....Do I need to drill the tank....Im looking to do everything right the first time and not skimp out....should I buy a sump/skimmer combo, or build one...any info would be great

 

Very first question...

Have you ever used a copper based medicine in your tank?

 

are you planning on running flow down under the tank for a sump or doing everything HOB? if you are planning on a sump, you could use an overflow box to get water to the sump.

 

first off welcome to 3reef by far the best informational forum on the web. what are you thinking of doing with your tank FOWLR or reef. i would definatley go with a sump, skimmer and also i would add a refugium

 

I have never used copper based medicine.......

I plan on having everything under the tank.....what the best way to get the water there?

 

poop

 

Glad to hear it. Copper has negative effects on SW inverts. (crabs, snails, shrimps, etc.)