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  #1  
Old 02-27-2015, 04:38 PM
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WarDog WarDog is offline
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Hi Twisty,

In regards to your question about the big 3 (alk, cal, mag), the following numbers should be a good guide (I am no expert).

alk : 6.5 - 8.5
cal : 410 - 430
mag : 1250 - 1300

I am only just starting to learn about balancing the big 3 myself, so hopefully other, more experienced reefers could chime in.
I would also recommend you do some research based on what livestock you plan on keeping, not every tank is the same.

I like the multi-level tank idea. This is going to be an interesting build!
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Old 02-27-2015, 05:51 PM
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Dog,

thanks for the numbers!
based on your thread... I know you don't have any test kits... but what brands are suggested?
I do know you like beer

I plan on keeping a Mixed Reef, given the size of the larger LOL tank. I will have to be selective with my corals or use frags.

I still haven't figured out what i'm going to do with the smaller tank.

I also have an empty spot, was thinking either Quarantine or Frag tank.




Quote:
Originally Posted by WarDog View Post
Hi Twisty,

alk : 6.5 - 8.5
cal : 410 - 430
mag : 1250 - 1300

I am only just starting to learn about balancing the big 3 myself, so hopefully other, more experienced reefers could chime in.
I would also recommend you do some research based on what livestock you plan on keeping, not every tank is the same.

I like the multi-level tank idea. This is going to be an interesting build!
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  #3  
Old 02-28-2015, 03:43 AM
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Quote:
Originally Posted by WarDog View Post

alk : 6.5 - 8.5
cal : 410 - 430
mag : 1250 - 1300
In my tank, I just couldn't keep my Ca stable unless my Mg was 1400ish. Once I got my mag there, I could leave my Ca reactor set for months till I had to refill it. And I started seeing huge growth of SPS once my Ca hit 420.
Either way, start with getting your Mg stable where you want it. Then play with the other two. If you don't, you'll chase numbers till the cows come home. Sk8er on RC has a great write up on the relationships between the 3
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Old 02-28-2015, 06:20 AM
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Quote:
Originally Posted by daplatapus View Post
In my tank, I just couldn't keep my Ca stable unless my Mg was 1400ish. Once I got my mag there, I could leave my Ca reactor set for months till I had to refill it. And I started seeing huge growth of SPS once my Ca hit 420.
Either way, start with getting your Mg stable where you want it. Then play with the other two. If you don't, you'll chase numbers till the cows come home. Sk8er on RC has a great write up on the relationships between the 3
Good advice

And as for your other comments twisty, well you can't offer beers if you're halfway across the country
Most of us that are talking to you are in BC, so good luck with the beers for trade stuff
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Old 03-01-2015, 10:31 PM
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LOL...


Quote:
Originally Posted by gregzz4 View Post
Good advice

And as for your other comments twisty, well you can't offer beers if you're halfway across the country
Most of us that are talking to you are in BC, so good luck with the beers for trade stuff
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  #6  
Old 03-02-2015, 12:08 PM
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Gave my LR and Acid bath this weekend.
Lot's of bubbles and FOAM!

The rock looks good and ready to start the cycle.

Any recommendations on how to start the cycle?


Last edited by twisty; 03-02-2015 at 12:14 PM.
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Old 03-02-2015, 12:10 PM
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Also got a Vertex Deluxe RO/DI Unit...

Now i need to start mixing salt water
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Old 03-02-2015, 01:32 PM
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Default Return Pump

So I'm going to be purchasing a return pump. They guys @ J&L recommended the Sicce Syncra. Anybody use these pumps?

I'm having a hard time figuring out what one to use; re head loss.

I plan on running both tanks with one return pump. The top tank is about 4.5' from the sump in height. I'll measure it tonight.

I also want to create a manifold, so I can plumb media reactors on the same pump output.

Any idea which pump I should run?
Syncra 1.0 - 251 GPH <-- don't think this will be suitable.
Syncra 2.0 - 568 GPH
Syncra 3.0 - 714 GPH
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  #9  
Old 03-03-2015, 01:44 AM
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Default sump design

I received my skimmer today
Now i'm trying to figure out what would be the best layout for my SUMP

I haven't installed any baffles yet as I would like input.

What do you guys think of this layout?

Last edited by twisty; 03-03-2015 at 01:46 AM.
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