29 Gallon fresh convert to salt

hello,
I recently took down my 29 gal fresh tank to move and want to re- set it up as a saltwater tank. i currently have a 100w heater, a marineland bio-wheel hanging filter, an optima 2 output air pump, and standard freshwater bulb.
I am looking into setting up a sump system for want of hiding stuff but am not quite sure how to set it up of how it works. i also need to know if i need a protein skimmer and which type..( prism, hanging, sump etc.) Eventually i would like to start a small reef...- i am trying to go as cheap as possible without sacrificing quality- what else do i need?? any ideas??

 

Welcome to 3reef Patrick!

I am new to SW too, and I wish I could give you immediate answers to your questions, but I would not want to give you incorrect info. Check out the Forum Menu - there is a ton of great information.

julie

 

Hi and welcome to 3reef first of all!
Now as for switching over from fresh to salt. You do not need to have a protein skimmer, however, being a newbie, I would tend to go with the skimmer to help maintain pristine water quality. You will need live rock and sand and update your lighting especially if planning on going with a reef biotope in due time.
Sumps are great as a way of concealing equipment and adding surface area and water volume to aid in reducing problems associated with human error.
I would get a nice book on the marine hobby that incorporates every aspect of the hobby to educate you and make the hobby more successful for you and your live stock and more enjoyable as well.
Best of luck to you....you also will want to read up on the types of living animals you want to maintain in your aquarium as well.
Skimmer by Coralife or Aqua-C are nice by the way!

 

thank you both very much