SuncrestReef's Red Sea Reefer XL 425 build

[SuncrestReef]

@SuncrestReef Did you end up changing your mounting setup for your Sky's? Trying to decide on the RMS arm mount or hang them off the ceiling. Read many reviews on the RMS leaning too far forward.

I'm still using a Frankenstein setup with the RMS arm supporting the 3D printed bracket from my old ReeFi lights, then the SKY hanging from that bracket using the wire hanging kit. It's not pretty, but it works, and other things in life have been keeping me too busy to bother changing it. Photos of that setup here:

Build Thread - SuncrestReef's Reefer XL 425 Rebuild

Really like the updated sump in your 425! You’ve got me thinking...

www.reef2reef.com

 

[SuncrestReef]

@SuncrestReef are you still running your old Reefi profile from 2020?

I've been using the Neptune SKY since my tank rebuild last year when I was asked to be on Neptune's NSI testing team. I still have the ReeFi's and may switch back to them at some point, but I've been too busy lately to mess with anything on my build.

 

[shadow1013]

It looks like you are using Aqua UV mouting bracket, how did you mount it? I cannot seem to find pictures/instructions on how to mount it as it looks like you need a bolt instead of a screws to mount it.

More good progress today. I glued up all the PVC and installed the sump plumbing. I purchased a set of mounting brackets for the Aqua UV sterilizer since it's a pretty heavy unit and will require periodic maintenance to replace the bulb and clean the glass tube. I wanted to make sure it was mounted firmly to make this easier when unscrewing the large PVC fittings.

View attachment 701491

 

[SuncrestReef]

It looks like you are using Aqua UV mouting bracket, how did you mount it? I cannot seem to find pictures/instructions on how to mount it as it looks like you need a bolt instead of a screws to mount it.

I use pan-head wood screws. The screws simply fit within the slots on the base of the clamp:

 

[Sean Clark]

It looks like you are using Aqua UV mouting bracket, how did you mount it? I cannot seem to find pictures/instructions on how to mount it as it looks like you need a bolt instead of a screws to mount it.

I used these.

4" Cobra Plastic Pipe Clip | U.S. Plastic Corp.

Cobra Pipe Clips provide installation flexibility, strength, and lasting reliability. To install, locate and insert the pipe in the open ...

www.usplastic.com

 

[shadow1013]

What size UV? 25 watt? If so, what did you use the 4" for the UV body?

I used these.

4" Cobra Plastic Pipe Clip | U.S. Plastic Corp.

Cobra Pipe Clips provide installation flexibility, strength, and lasting reliability. To install, locate and insert the pipe in the open ...

www.usplastic.com

 

[Sean Clark]

What size UV? 25 watt? If so, what did you use the 4" for the UV body?

I have 25 and 40 watt, both use the same clamps around the body. The uv wattage does not matter as much as the body size. The 4 inch will work with Pentair 18, 25, 40, 80, and I think 120 watt units. So long as they are not the "high output" versions with wider bodies. The other big uv brands will be similar. Tell me what are you using and I will do my best to confirm.

 

[SuncrestReef]

It's been a fun, challenging, humbling, and sometimes heartbreaking journey as I built, maintained, and even rebuilt this tank.

But now, it's time to shut it down and sell it.

I recently sold my IT support company and will be stepping away from the reefing hobby for a while as my wife & I spend some time traveling and deciding on when and where to resettle. I have really enjoyed participating in the reefing hobby, and I’m very happy that my series of Apex tutorials have been so popular. I don’t yet know my timeline, but I’m sure I’ll get sucked back into reefing at some point, but for now, please continue to read my Apex tutorial series and point other Apex users to them as needed to keep people informed on the best practices for Apex programming. It’s been an honor that so many of you have looked to me for guidance on the Apex, and I hope that the tutorials I wrote will live on in my absence.

Happy reefing!

-John

aka SuncrestReef

 

[Johnmy]

It's been a fun, challenging, humbling, and sometimes heartbreaking journey as I built, maintained, and even rebuilt this tank.

But now, it's time to shut it down and sell it.

I recently sold my IT support company and will be stepping away from the reefing hobby for a while as my wife & I spend some time traveling and deciding on when and where to resettle. I have really enjoyed participating in the Apex support forums, and I’m very happy that my series of Apex tutorials have been so popular. I don’t yet know my timeline, but I’m sure I’ll get sucked back into reefing at some point, but for now, please continue to read my Apex tutorial series and point other Apex users to them as needed to keep people informed on the best practices for Apex programming. It’s been an honor that so many of you have looked to me for guidance on the Apex, and I hope that the tutorials I wrote will live on in my absence.

Happy reefing!

-John

aka SuncrestReef

It's a shame you're leaving Hobbie John, but family always comes first. We will always appreciate all your contributions and they will surely last forever, and I can personally say that almost all my Apex programming was thanks to you and I continue to learn from your Great Tutorials. Greetings Brother and have a wonderful trip with your wife. See you next time

 

[Bato367]

It's been a fun, challenging, humbling, and sometimes heartbreaking journey as I built, maintained, and even rebuilt this tank.

But now, it's time to shut it down and sell it.

I recently sold my IT support company and will be stepping away from the reefing hobby for a while as my wife & I spend some time traveling and deciding on when and where to resettle. I have really enjoyed participating in the reefing hobby, and I’m very happy that my series of Apex tutorials have been so popular. I don’t yet know my timeline, but I’m sure I’ll get sucked back into reefing at some point, but for now, please continue to read my Apex tutorial series and point other Apex users to them as needed to keep people informed on the best practices for Apex programming. It’s been an honor that so many of you have looked to me for guidance on the Apex, and I hope that the tutorials I wrote will live on in my absence.

Happy reefing!

-John

aka SuncrestReef

Enjoy your travels! I have the same tank. And when I get an Apex I’ll be sure and check out your articles!

 

[blstravler]

Enjoy all of your travels!!!

 

[Crabby48]

Sad to see you go but happy you and your wife will be able to start a new chapter in life. We will miss your journey and pictures greatly along with all your help.
what is the best way to find all your tutorials? Always willing to learn how to get more from apex.
Any pointers on how I can get dos to dose a certain amount at certain times. Im dosing H202 to my display to take care of an ich outbreak

 

[ScottB]

Thanks John for all your contributions. I am a much better APEX user thanks primarily to your help.

I get the need to break down the tank while shifting gears. Hopefully though you can stay with the forum as time allows.

 

[Zach B]

Big thank you to @SuncrestReef for everything you have helped us with! Best of luck to you

 

[PeterC99]

Want to personally thank @SuncrestReef for all your help and expertise. Getting the Neptune Apex, Trident, & DOS were game changers. But your expert write ups helped me get the most out of my controllers and take my aquarium to the next level!

Wish you safe and great travels. You will be missed!

Thank you for all your help!!!

 

[carmodpg]

It's been a fun, challenging, humbling, and sometimes heartbreaking journey as I built, maintained, and even rebuilt this tank.

But now, it's time to shut it down and sell it.

I recently sold my IT support company and will be stepping away from the reefing hobby for a while as my wife & I spend some time traveling and deciding on when and where to resettle. I have really enjoyed participating in the reefing hobby, and I’m very happy that my series of Apex tutorials have been so popular. I don’t yet know my timeline, but I’m sure I’ll get sucked back into reefing at some point, but for now, please continue to read my Apex tutorial series and point other Apex users to them as needed to keep people informed on the best practices for Apex programming. It’s been an honor that so many of you have looked to me for guidance on the Apex, and I hope that the tutorials I wrote will live on in my absence.

Happy reefing!

-John

aka SuncrestReef

dang, you will be missed. I cannot tell you how helpful your posts were to me setting up my mixing station and my apex programming!

 

[SuncrestReef]

The tank is shut down and officially for sale. If you're in Oregon and are interested in it, see the classified ad here:

For Sale: Red Sea Reefer XL 425 + custom fit Trigger sump w/ roller filter and complete Apex setup for full automation

This is the world-famous SuncrestReef Apex-controlled Red Sea Reefer XL 425 as documented in my detailed Reef2Reef build thread, and the system that I referenced when I wrote my highly popular series of Apex tutorial articles. The original retail...

www.reef2reef.com

 

[Yates273]

Wow. You will be missed. You have helped me enormously with your tutorials. I am far from computer savvy but you made it super easy with how you explain things. Enjoy the time off! Good luck with your new endeavors.

 

[Fudsey]

@SuncrestReef Make sure, when you start your new tank, to put a link to your new build thread in here so we can all find it