New guy here, saying hello, and need some info please

[turbovr6]

Hello all,

I have been wanting to get a freshwater aquarium going for quite some time. I was about to go buy a 50 gal setup untill my friend's father offered me a 150 gal tank he is no longer using. All I had to do was get a new stand for it. I made my own when I seen how flimsy the ones in the store were. My will hold a Cadillac!!! Now on to my questions....
This WAS a saltwater tank, what is the best way to clean out the pumps?
Also if you look at the pictures you can see the pump setup. 2 pumps at the bottom then there are 3 "tiers" for me to add filter material. The thing is I have no clue what should go on each level. Also I would like reccomendations on a good heater/heaters for this tank.
I have so many other questions, but for now I want to get this tank properly cleaned, and buy the correct filter media so I can start on the wonderful journey of building my own little eco-system

 

[rich311k]

Welcome to AA!!! What a nice tank.

 

[Zagz]

Welcome to AA! Filter media you could use is filter floss, bio balls, ceramic rings, pot scrubbers to name a few. I honestly can't help you on the best way to clean the pumps, I'll leave that to the experts. For my 125 I have 2 ebo jager heaters 150w each. That works well for me but I believe the recommendation is a bit higher per gal. Beautiful tank, I'm jealous.

 

[turbovr6]

Thanks for the compliments!!! I'm hoping my aquascaping ideas will compliment the tank. 2 more start off questions. With the pump system I have in this tank would it be ok to use sand instead of gravel? Next question is The hood has 2 ballasts. An Ice Cap 430 for the white bulbs, and what was explained to me as a ballast for 2 special actinic bulbs. I did some searching but can't figure out if theese lights would be benificial for a freshwater tank.....

Thanks again

 

[rich311k]

atnics make the fish look great. No real help to plants.

 

[Serge]

Welcome to AA!




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