Returning to the sea--FOWLR tank set up advice needed

[Snapper_Jones]

I'm getting back into the saltwater hobby after a 10 year hiatus. I had reef tanks when I was younger, now I'm interested in a fish-only saltwater tank for my home office. All the available equipment and aquarium packages these days is a bit overwhelming. Due to great marketing I assume, I'm drawn to the complete Red Sea Max packages that include everything. However, something tells me that may be way more than what for what I actually need--especially the lighting for a fish-only tank. I am also intrigued by the Reefmat system but have noticed it may not fit in every sump.

The tank size I'd like to purchase will be between 110-160 gallons. I'm open to all-in-one tanks if folks think they would be a good option.

What should I look for in regards to equipment: return pump, skimmer, etc. that would work well for the system I want to create, but not be overkill.

thanks in advance.

 

[Spare time]

I would avoid red sea. It is overpriced and their seams make me nervous though there is no data on the percentage of sold tanks with seam failures so their relevance could be due to popularity. Can you do a tank with a sump? It will make your life easier.

 

[Snapper_Jones]

Thanks, I can do a tank with a sump. That is my top option. Just. not sure what equipment would serve a fish-only tank well.

 

[Spare time]

Thanks, I can do a tank with a sump. That is my top option. Just. not sure what equipment would serve a fish-only tank well.

I think a nice refugium + skimmer would be a good combo. As for equipment, a quality heater + controller, a DC return pump, and some wavemakers are all going to be good options but the exact kind depends on the budget. Are you going to QT the fish or buy pre-quarantined fish?

 

[Spare time]

Also I think a light with a decent shimmer would be very pretty on a fowler.

 

[Devaji]

welcome back!
you will get alot of enjoyment out of a FOWLR system.

my thoughts: ( take it for what is worth )

1. I would get the largest system to have space and can afford. the beauty of FO is you get to have all those fish you could not have in a reef.

2. yeah you dont need expensive lights save the $$ there and put it towards filtration. that siad its nice to have lights you can program sunrise/sunset ect. might be a good thing to buy used.

3. browse though the fish on sites like liveaquaria etc. and get a dream fish list and choose the tang from there. if you go with the 110 and then start stocking and realize you cant have any large angels/tangs might be bummed.

4. I agree I would skip on RS tanks. I had the 650P seem started to give out, they replaced it under warranty but still. that siad I do have the RS 300xl G2 so far so good. but you never know.

5. look in to innovative marine tanks. I think they are the best bang for the buck on the market. i have there 200 peninsula great tank.

6. price out glass cages if you want to go custom. tanks are nice and can get the dems you want. however the stand are pretty expensive. ( only reason I went with IM)

7. plan your filtration. do you want UV,Ozone, skimmer, roller mates etc. get a plan going.

8. if you have space get a peninsula! no really its like having two tanks in one.

9. dont tell the wife how much you spent on your new hobby. maybe go shoe shopping with her.