36 gal new set up

So I have taken care of a saltwater tank before, but never set one up... I have also never done a reef tank but I would like to do this one as one. I have a 36 gal bow front tank and am about to start it off next week and I don't know exactly where to begin if I want to finish with a reef tank. What are some of the things I should do right away as far as filtration, lighting, what to cycle with, substrate, rock, and anything that I don't know about or can't think about???

Thanks in advance

 

Welcome to 3Reef!
Well, to start, you're going to want to get at least the rock/substrate and flow situated first. A general rule for substrate is about a pound per gallon. If you want a reef your going to want quite a bit of rock. Aim for about 55-75 pounds of it. If your going to use live rock, youre going to want to get it ALL first thing, as each time you add youre going to restart a cycle.
Then get to flow. 2-3 Koralia 1's will be real nice in that tank.
Once that is all situated you can start the cycle. I like to cycle with a single yellow tailed damsel. You'll have about 8 weeks with just him
Skimmers, filters, and lights are not really needed during the cycling process, so you can spend the time to study. Type of skimmer will really depend on if you are going to run a sump/fuge or not. Lighting will depend on what exactly you want to keep coral or invert wise. Figure those things out first and go from there.
Just remember to go slow, stay patient, and research, Research, RESEARCH!

 

So you say the protein skimmer depends on whether or not I am getting a sump... What is a sump exactly and why would I need it. I do plan on coral and inverts eventually so basically I don't want to get something just to have to upgrade...
I don't really want to do a sump or anything that won't fit under the tank in the cabinet. Any suggestions then on the protein skimmer?

I also saw on one of the forums that I don't want to get a hood or cover at all?? Is that the case or is there anyway I can get a good cover that still allows for gas exchange??

 

I wouldnt start with a damsel personally. Not saying its a horrible idea, but they are pretty aggressive, and you wouldnt want to be stuck with him. And its cruel to subject the fish to the conditions of a cycling tank. The die off from live rock will be plenty to kick it off. Or I have heard of guys using a peice of shrimp, which decays and creates ammonia.

As far as a cover, find yourself a canopy. IF you put fans on the ends it will allow air to flow through it.

You can do a sump/fuge that will fit under the stand. Shouldnt be a problem, then you can put your skimemr, and heaters in it, help hide some of the equipment.

I just got a Precision Marine bullit 1 skimmer. Pretty exspensive. But IMO worth it. I was going to get a AuqaC remora rated up to 75 Gallons, but I decided I would be I would be pushing it to the limit.

 

Here is a picture of the stand setup that I am getting... Is there a sump that comes premade or do I have to do it myself? Also would I have to drill the tank or can it come in from the top?

By fans do you mean something in the tank that creates current?

The set up...

http://www.aqueonproducts.com/assets/010/13547_400wh.jpg

 

No, like a computer fan to pull hot air out of the canopy.


That would be pretty difficult to fit a sump inside that stand... Your best bet would be a HOB (hang on back ) type skimmer like the aquaC remora.

You can have hole drilled into the glass as long as its NOT tempered glass. You can also get an overflow box that hangs on the back as well.

 

Okay so I have decided to change the stand to this one...

http://www.aqueonproducts.com/assets/010/13443_400wh.jpg


So now that I can fit a sump in, what kind should I get and what do y'all recommend. The plans for the tank will probably be a reef set up with live rock maybe some easy corals. I would like to fit the heater, skimmer, and possibly some live rock and sand in it. I don't know the dimensions under it but I think it is a pretty common one. Any suggestions?