[globaldesigns]

Hey Reefwars,

Good to see another new build, will love to stay with this thread to see your progress.

Auto top-off: I personally use the tunze model, it isn't cheap, but it has never failed me, and with infra-red sensor it is the most accurate. I do hear others with DIY models, so maybe someone can forward you a design plan.

Reactors: I personally run 3 reactors, 2 deltecs for my NP bioPellets, and one for the carbon... they just allow water to flow nicely through things for maximum exposure the the media.

Chillers: I don't personally run one, house is climate controlled, so I am lucky. Personally I wouldn't buy one right away. See how all the equipment runs with the system and how it increases the water temp. if you need one, then seek one out.

Pin Point Monitors: Personally I would love a high-end Mg or Ca, don't have either yet, and Mg isn't available. One day I will be able to buy both, and save money on test kits. For PH, Temp, ALK I would just use test kits, they are cheaper than any probe.

Controllers: sure if it is in the budget. I myself want one, but don't have a clue what to buy.

UV sterilizer: This will depend what you are going to have and how you are going to manage them. If you are doing a reef, and running Zeo, BioPellets or anything like that, then I don't recomment the UV. If you also have sufficient skimming and filtration, then again I don't recomment UV. It will all depend on your decisions.

My suggestions:
- don't go budget on the skimmer, get high quality and make sure it can handle more than what your system is.
- with a reef environment I would also invest in flow. Look at the Vortech's. They are not cheap, but well worth the money
- Lighting is also key, I personally recommend MH (Metal Halide), but many have great success with T5HO's... Do your research there, and don't go cheap.

Lastly have fun!!!!

Rick