The Pinpoint Wireless thermometer
Refractometer- Don’t cheap out here by buying a hydrometer. This is
one of the most important measurements you’ll need to monitor. A
refractometer is infinitely more reliable. No matter what size tank you
start with, please don’t start with a hydrometer. As a matter of fact,
the smaller the tank the more important it is to use a refractometer.
Test kits – Salifert makes the best, affordable and efficient test
kits for the hobby. You’ll need ammonia, nitrites, nitrates, pH,
calcium, alkalinity/hardness, magnesium. Any more than this is not
really necessary but available if you want them.
RO/DI water filter – Your tap water contains loads of TDS (Total
Dissolved Solids) that are prime for causing algae outbreaks. If you get
a TDS meter you’ll be able to test your tap water. Mine comes out of
the tap at 105 ppm. We want zero. ‘Nuff said.
Lighting – I could write an entire book on reef lighting. Depends
upon what animals you want to keep. Metal halide, T5, Powercompact (PC),
LED, combination of MH & T5 or MH & PC is a great combination.
Thermometer – The Pinpoint Wireless thermometer is very reliable.
Return pump – Depending upon the amount of vertical height you’re
pumping your return water will determine the size pump you need.
Remember, as water is pushed up vertically, as well as the friction of
the pipe it is flowing through as well as the # of fittings (elbows,
unions, ball valves, etc) will reduce the flow you get through the
discharge in the tank. A 1″ pvc pipe overflow can handle NO MORE THAN
600 gph. Therefore, you might need a 1000 gph pump to compensate for
vertical height plus backpressure from the fittings used.
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