What are the MUST HAVES for equipment?

[Coralgurl]

Definitely getting a controller now.

The vertex doesn't look like its getting released until the fall, I don't think I should wait that long....

[burgerchow]

Good heaters and a good chiller. Using aqua logic titanium drop in chiller with the thermostat control and my tank never fluctuates from 79 degrees, no matter what the ambient temperature is.

[lockrookie]

spare parts one must have a backup plan if somethng quits so that your not freaking out and purchasing higher cost stuff in a pinch i try to keep a spare return pump spare powerheads and spare lights just in case. in 3 years i have had one of everything break on me mostly from user error. but some from just bad luck. im not saying hae a complete tank ready to go. but essentials are good to have laying around.

[Coralgurl]

Originally Posted by lockrookie

spare parts one must have a backup plan if somethng quits so that your not freaking out and purchasing higher cost stuff in a pinch i try to keep a spare return pump spare powerheads and spare lights just in case. in 3 years i have had one of everything break on me mostly from user error. but some from just bad luck. im not saying hae a complete tank ready to go. but essentials are good to have laying around.

Great advice, I almost fried my return pump in less than 24 hours leaving the ato unplugged....I have no back up plan, but I do have some spare bits already.

[Mike-fish]

Originally Posted by Coralgurl

Great advice, I almost fried my return pump in less than 24 hours leaving the ato unplugged....I have no back up plan, but I do have some spare bits already.

and thats why dual external return pumps are wonderful the nice thing to is if they run low on water it doesn't really harm them they just give you the bubble storm telling you its time to top off (we don't trust atos ) sure having 2 pumps running costs more but are well worth the piece of mind

[syncro]

Controllers: I have a Neptune Apex that I like. I've heard Profilux is better built (and pricier) while compared to the DA Reefkeeper the Apex has more flexible programming options.

[wickedfrags]

An RO/DI unit. No reef should be without one.

Essentially all other stuff is optional, but certainly nice to have. About 15 years in and I have never owned a controller myself...feel like I would be putting too many eggs in one basket.