Help for the Noob

R

ryanswi78

Hello, I am finally going to break free from the chains of the non-reef ready tank and am beginning my endeavors on a 45 gallon RR Cube 24"x24"x18" with a 25 gallon sump of 19"x18.5"x16". There are 3 holes drilled in the overflow column that when talking to a guy at the lfs said I should plug one of. But the main reason I am writing this is I am asking for suggestions for a good reliable skimmer that wont break the bank. Don't want cheap, but don't want to spend most of a pay check on it either. Not sure what more information I would need to provide as I am as the title suggests I am trying to learn this one piece at a time. And suggestions on pumps for the return is also needed. Thank you all for any help in advance. [smilie=smile.gif]
 
Ive had really good results with the Eshopps brand skimmer, I was in the same boat and didnt want to break the bank getting a decent skimmer and researched that brand eventually. Im currently using the PSK-100 HOB for mine but im building a frag tank and will be trying out the in sump model next for it. I'll tag along here for return pumps as Im in the market for one also but am uncertain what route to go, I was considering Hydor Seltz L40 Universal Pump but I havnt been able to find any reviews for it.
 
Skimmers! Working on a regular guys budget, we can waste cash quickly on equiptment that doesn't perform. Been there, done that. With that being said, I'm very happy with ASM brand skimmers. I've had 2 and both performed very well. Both were purchased used. If I were to change brands though, an Octopus skimmer would not be a waste of money. When I put together my 200g, I could have purchased any return pump(s). I opted for 2 Catalina Aquarium brand 3000 pumps. They are dirt cheap and suprisingly very reliable. I ran a CA2200 for my 120g for just over 2 yrs without so much as turning it off to clean it. Never had a single problem with it and the guy that ended up with my old set-up is still using it. Going on 3 yrs. I'm sure there are better built pumps out there, but I've seen more problems from better known, more expensive brands.
 
Can't go wrong with Octopus skimmers for the money. You can usually get a good price on a used one.
 
Look at aquamaxx skimmers mojo on r2r did a review on them an gave them good reviews


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