Considering saltwater?

[Garett34]

Hey everyone!

My first post on this site and i'd really like some advice!

I have a 55g that i took down about a year ago (FW) and i've really been thinking about setting it up and trying saltwater but i need some advice. I have an 55g Aqueon quietflow filter, and a fluval brand heater. I would like to know what other things i would need, if i need a different heater and different filter, and prices on all this?
i have kind of an idea on what i need which would be
-protien skimmer
-salt
-sand/substrate
-maybe a new filter?
-different lighting system

Help with this would be really appreciated!

Thanks!

 

[Bectan01]

There are many filtration a options available to you, I have the same sized tank and run that filter less (loads of live rock and a powerful skimmer) if I could start over I would have drilled the tank and run a sump but for now this system works for me with weekly water changes. Have a read of some of the articles on here about the different types of filtration. You will need powerheads for flow (probably two) and look into a rodi system for making your water (tap water not recommended) what do you plan to keep? Corals? Fish only? That may help you decide filtration and lighting options...

 

[Garett34]

No i haven't had any time to check out the other options for filters but i will fore surely go check it out! and i wanted to try with corals first and then eventually fish aswell!

 

[Dav3]

No i haven't had any time to check out the other options for filters but i will fore surely go check it out! and i wanted to try with corals first and then eventually fish aswell!

Then get a good skimmer and good lighting.

 

[Big Tex]

Then get a good skimmer and good lighting.

x2 on this, you can keep your hob filter for mechanical filtration and water polishing, but you NEED a good skimmer and lots of water circulation, as in a pair of good powerheads like hydor koralia 850's and a reef octopus skimmer like the bh1000 or the bh100 skimmer, these are great skimmer for the price and IMO are a better option for someone that doesnt have a sump or canister as an option, heres some links:

Reef Octopus BH100 Hang-on-the-Back Protein Skimmer - Bulk Reef Supply

Reef Octopus BH1000 Hang-on-the-Back Protein Skimmer - Bulk Reef Supply

Hydor Koralia Evolution - Bulk Reef Supply