SilverCityReef
Active Member
Let me start off by saying how glad I am that R2R exists and how helpful all members have been during my initial startup process. The first 2 paragraphs are background and tank info so you may skip reading.
I have decided to finally get my 40B up and running so I have been slowly gathering equipment, building stand, and basically just getting everything ready to go prior to adding water and starting cycle. I want to start my first reef aquarium with the best chances of success and don't mind taking my time if it means I won't have to disturb or stop setup in future to make changes that could have been done prior.
My 40B is drilled and will have a 20T sump. The 20T is not ideal due to limited footprint compared to 20L but I haven't come across a decent 20L for sale yet. I am planning to have limited equipment in sump due to the lack of available space but decided a refugium, protein skimmer, and return pump (obviously) are necessary to help limit maintenance.
My first question is how I should arrange baffles in sump and at what height, spacing, and design they should be. I'm not quite sure how the baffles work and what the ultimate goal of them is. Any info on the matter is greatly appreciated. Also, pictures are worth 1,000 words.
Second question is regarding refugium lighting. I was planning on getting the Kessil H380 after hearing good things about it from the BRS team, but since my sump is only a 20T and refugium area will have to be limited, should I get the H80 instead? I feel like I should still just get the H380 so that if I do upgrade sump, the light will still be able to handle it. Also, according to BRS, it seems the H380 is the best option for a natural level maintaining system.
Thanks in advance for all input, information, opinions, and pictures. Should be getting ready for water within the next week so I would like to get glass cut and in place as soon as possible.
I have decided to finally get my 40B up and running so I have been slowly gathering equipment, building stand, and basically just getting everything ready to go prior to adding water and starting cycle. I want to start my first reef aquarium with the best chances of success and don't mind taking my time if it means I won't have to disturb or stop setup in future to make changes that could have been done prior.
My 40B is drilled and will have a 20T sump. The 20T is not ideal due to limited footprint compared to 20L but I haven't come across a decent 20L for sale yet. I am planning to have limited equipment in sump due to the lack of available space but decided a refugium, protein skimmer, and return pump (obviously) are necessary to help limit maintenance.
My first question is how I should arrange baffles in sump and at what height, spacing, and design they should be. I'm not quite sure how the baffles work and what the ultimate goal of them is. Any info on the matter is greatly appreciated. Also, pictures are worth 1,000 words.
Second question is regarding refugium lighting. I was planning on getting the Kessil H380 after hearing good things about it from the BRS team, but since my sump is only a 20T and refugium area will have to be limited, should I get the H80 instead? I feel like I should still just get the H380 so that if I do upgrade sump, the light will still be able to handle it. Also, according to BRS, it seems the H380 is the best option for a natural level maintaining system.
Thanks in advance for all input, information, opinions, and pictures. Should be getting ready for water within the next week so I would like to get glass cut and in place as soon as possible.
