Suggestions for new SW setup

Hello all, this is my first post here as I've been just reading a lot. I currently have a 110X gal. freshwater tank (I know this is not the best shape for SW) that I want to convert to a FOWLR SW tank. Let me tell you about my tank now. I run a Filstar X3 canister filter and a hung off back Emperor 400 filter. the lighting is basic florescent shop light. So that's my equipment. I know I will need to upgrade my lighting more so since I have an extra tall tank. And I want to run a 20 gal. refugium tank under the 110X in the cabinet. I will use plenty live rock and use sand for the substrate. So with this in mind I'm looking for any ideas or suggestions for my new 110X gal. saltwater setup. What type of lighting and how much, what other equipment? All ideas, suggestions and thoughts welcome. I've been into freshwater fish keeping for a long time and have decided to my the jump to saltwater. Thanks before hand guys. foots

 

Welcome aboard foots, and congrats on the switch to the dark side;D. Is your current tank all glass? If so, I would look into mega flows(internal flows), makes life alot easier. I personaly dont like canister filters, so I cant help you in that dept. The refugium sounds a little small but can be done with enough LR. The lighting dept is really up to you and your bank account and what types of corals you are planning to have. I like MH with PC actinics or with T-5 actinics. If possible, try not to go through the cheap route when it comes to the lighting and skimmer. You'll end up spending more in the end. Luna

 

Luna, Yes my tank is all glass. I'll check into the mega flows too, I don't really know what they are at this time but I'll check into it. As for the lighting, I really just what fish and live rock and anything else "good" that will grow in my tank. ;D And as for the refugium I may go with a 40 gal. if needed. Thanks for the feedback Luna, Foots

 

As for the lighting and basiclly any other important equipment, Do your research before you go out and buy anything. Some corals need intense lighting more than others, so that will dictate what kind of lighting you will need. The mega flow is basiclly like a overflow box that is built inside the tank. Good luck and dont hesitate to ask any Q's. Luna

 

WELCOME!!! Good luck with the transfer into SW, all here will be glad to help along the way. I know that Otty and several others on here had freshwater tanks for years before jumping to saltwater, they might be able to help you make the transition.
As for hardware, you can go as extravagant or plain as your bank account will allow! Some things can't be cheaped on, others you can. Just like Luna said, for alot of things it is cheaper IN THE LONG RUN to spend some money now.

Good luck!!

 

for a 110 with fish only, i would opt for 2 or so T5's met to match length of tank (length?). they would really show off nice coloration of fish, come out crisp white, allow you to personalize your coloration preference, and could let you keep some soft corals. Trust me, we all venture to attempting to keep corals eventually . Zoanthids are easy to keep, fast growing, some are pretty and would be okay in a fowler

 

Before you do anything, check this web-site out first. Saltwater Aquarium Setup Guide