just starting in the reef hobby . help

I need advice on the best mid priced skimmer. if t5 light will be a good growth light for sps and zoo's and how many will i need for a 125 and 180. also if a cal. reactor is necessary.

 

skimmer

Look into the ASM skimmers, copy of Euro C, And are half the price and just as effective. I run 2 different models and love them.

 

Dont skimp on a skimmer for those size tanks. A skimmer for tanks that size will run $250-300. You could go with a turbofloater multi for the 125g but for a 180g it would be pushing it. Check prices on ebay.

 

Hi, and welcome to 3reef first of all!
As for your protein skimmer, as RAVEN stated, don't be cheap with regards to a skimmer. Also, the skimmer designed for your tank (gallon size), I would buy the next size up especially since the companies don't really take a look at bio-load etc. when stating tank size the skimmer will handle.
I am partial to AquaC skimmers(no venturi's!), and for your tank size i'd go with a EV 180-240. These are a very good and reliable skimmer.
T5's are a good lighting performer, however, to save you money in the future, I would forgo them and step up to metal halides-then there really isn't any coral you couldn't keep. Sps are the most light demanding on the whole with lps and softies mainly kept under subdued and moderate lighting, then followed by most Gorgonians and sponges.
If you went with t5's, why not purchase a fixture offering both t5's and metal halides. Ther are a few companies that offer them such as Aqua Medic and Giesemann(Germany). Just a suggestion based on my own opinion and experience.
No chillers...They work but are very expensive and energy hogs. Do you need to have one to be successful with saltwater?...NO!!!!!!!!!
What I do is place a fan near my tank to blow across the top of my tank(evaporative cooling), and man it works wonders. The only thing is you will be required to replace water which has evaporated(word of caution:when replacing the water-USE ONLY FRESH WATER-preferably RO water!!!).
Well, best of luck in your endeavors regarding your introduction into saltwater and reefers annonymous-we all have the disease and are broke in doing so, however, are enjoying it all the way...

 

thanks 4 the advice. i was going to use 12 54 watt t-5 but i guess that i won't be able to keep sps. i have looked at the AquaC skimmers but there pricey.

 

check ebay for skimmers. Remember, most skimmer manufacturers over rate their skimmers by 30-50%. You can buy a turbofloater multi for under $200 and its a good skimmer that can be run in sump or HOT. Its rated for up to 250g tank but I wouldnt use it for any tank over 180g depending on your bio load.