need help with filters

super633 · 08-07-2006, 09:07 PM

HI I am about to set up my 150 gallon tank. I have been out of the hobby for about 10 years. The question is has there been many changes in the hobby? Currently I have a wet/dry filter with bio-balls, under gravel filter with power heads and the remains of a denitrification filter. I also have a large UV unit. I know I will need to upgrade my lighting and get a new protein skimmer. Any suggestions? I would like to keep it simple but at the same time upgrade if necessary. I first got into the hobby wen wet dry filters used trays with gravel. (old school) so what do you think guys? any opinions will be helpful.

three90s&125sump · 08-07-2006, 09:17 PM

Welcome to TRT. Where abouts in Chicago do you live?

The bio balls are out now. They are nothing but trouble. Undergavel filters are bad too. The UV is optional. The denitrification filter could destroy your tank.

All you really need is a big protien skimmer and lots of live rock and lots of light. Everything else is just a bell or a whistle. How is that for simple.

Keep asking questions and take your time. This place will save you many headaches and dollars.

jenajet · 08-07-2006, 09:27 PM

Agree just run a good skimmer and let the lr do the rest!

VWD · 08-07-2006, 09:36 PM

Welcome to TRT!

I agree , get rid of the Bio balls and Undergravel filter, Use the wet/dry as a sump only, Get a good skimmer, As much live rock as You can, as far a denirator, You can use, but not really needed , I have a few and don't used them anymore,

super633 · 08-07-2006, 10:23 PM

So what's the best protein skimmer out there? And how do you guys feel about dual metal halide and 2 48 super actinic blue 40 w . about 662.50. Lots of money to get the wrong stuff. Also I have been seeing moon light. what is that? THANKS GUYS!

three90s&125sump · 08-07-2006, 10:31 PM

Best skimmer depends on what you like and what your intentions are. I like ASMs I have heard very good things about the MRCs. the ASMs ate set it and forget it. The becketts (MRC) take a little more time and skill to get set up.

three90s&125sump · 08-07-2006, 10:32 PM

MH and VHOs are a great combonation for lighting. I would not get the HO or NO flourecent bulbs. They can not keep up with the MH and your actinics will be drowned out by the MH.

super633 · 08-07-2006, 10:50 PM

one last thing I forgot to add. I was also going to add a very large fluidized bed filter by lifeguard. What are your feelings about this product. I have one in my discus tank and it seems to do a very good job. As far as my intentions for my simmer, I would like one to fit under my tank.

three90s&125sump · 08-07-2006, 11:29 PM

No need for the fluidized sand either. They are only marginally better than bio balls. Anything that you use that will take the nitrogen cycle away from your LR (except for complex systems that usually fail because they are too complex) will just reduce the effectivness of your LR and cause your nitrates to rise.

MR 1 from MRC or an ASM g4+ would be my first two suggestions.

Geoff · 08-08-2006, 08:58 AM

Welcome to TRT!!!

great advice so far!!!

not a big fan of the expensive silly night lights for fish.

G~