Setting Up A Marine Tank

[lee8040]

i want to setup a marine tank it will be my first time, i dont want to go live reef so will be going artificial. the part im not sure about is the salt water is there something that mixes it for you? i dont want to be doing buckets of water mixed with buckets of salt if you get what i mean, id like something that is hidden that does the job for me

 

[DrRob]

Most LFS's that do marine will mix it for you, for a small price. Saves on the RO machine, the salt and the effort, but does mean that you can only pick up water when you can get to the LFS. Easier for some than others.

Otherwise you could always throw a small pump in the container and let it stir things up.

 

[Aquascaper]

Without sounding harsh it comes across as another 'I want a marine tank but can't be bothered with the extra hassle over freshwater'.

This is usually a recipe for disaster, marine tanks require a fair bit more work than most freshwater tanks and if you're not prepared to do it then it will fail. I understand you've only asked about salt mix but is that the only thing you would rather not be bothered with?

 

[DrRob]

Whilst I can see your point aquascaper, and it is a big problem with people who haven't looked into things too hard and get a reef for it to bomb after they give up on the maintenance, I can also think of several reasons why someone wouldn't want lots of buckets lying around, including other pets, small children, lack of space and other halves.

 

[Aquascaper]

Been there, done that which was why I was just asking if the was anything else the OP lacked enthusiasm for apart from the water.

Automated systems cost lots of money (unless youre good at DIY in some cases) so if the OP for instance wouldn't want RO water stored at home for top-ups or could only get to an LFS once a month then being aware of the maintenance side of marines compared to freshwater is essential before making the decision to convert.

 

[lee8040]

Whilst I can see your point aquascaper, and it is a big problem with people who haven't looked into things too hard and get a reef for it to bomb after they give up on the maintenance, I can also think of several reasons why someone wouldn't want lots of buckets lying around, including other pets, small children, lack of space and other halves.

thqats right, i have 2 children under 5 a third on the way so having buckets of water round etc would result in disaster, im not saying i wouldnt do the maintance im just saying that i would rather spend money on a proper system than a bucket method

 

[Aquascaper]

That's fine, I had an inquisitive 2 year old when I had my first reef so know the feeling.

You will find that you'll have some clutter though, it's inevitable. If you're buying pre-mixed saltwater and RO get some sealable containers with taps as I found that was the easiest way. And a cupboard dedicated to marine crap or a tank with a good stand/cabinet setup always helps