Hairy Algae????

[Aquattro]

If all the stuff came out of an existing tank, you've just disturbed the nutrients. What I would do is add some turbo snails, keep your skimmer clean (you have a good skimer, right?) and some larger frequent water changes. I'd also use RO (purified) water over treated tap water. Never sure what comes out of your tap.
Keep some carbon running, replace every few weeks. Lots of areation to keep pH up, O2 high, and you should see some improvement. Covering your tank with 6l poly makes it hard to view, which is likely why you got the tank in the first place!
It's normal to get this, don't worry a lot about it. Follow the above, you should be good in 3 -6 weeks.

[busymum]

Thanks for the quick reply, apparently this is only the tip of the iceberg as far as learning goes. I will be heading out tomorrow to pick up some snails.

[Aquattro]

Originally Posted by busymum

apparently this is only the tip of the iceberg as far as learning goes.

Yup, just the tip... Don't worry, you'll love it!

[Black Phantom]

Just a quick word of advice. Before you run out and spend money on anything thats going to go in your tank, check your parameters. Chances are you are still going through a cycle and the ammonia and nitrate levels will be high. Putting anything in at this point will just kill it (snails). This hobby is all about patience.
Just my two cents worth

[busymum]

Thanks for your advice, we will be sure to have our water tested first.