360 gal display!! Stoked!

[Scythanith]

Hello all,

I am currently designing a 360 gal display tank for the new home my gf Wendy and I are building in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan.

First off, I am open to all opinions and critiques!

tank will me a mix of everything except softies. We love LPS and I know we will have plenty, but I also want to get into SPS in a bad way!

The systems will be a basement setup with a dedicated room. The house is being built to energy star specs and will have a high efficiency flow through style dehumidifier, central ac, and a carrier infinity furnace which runs it's motor to circ air/control humidity even when it's not heating or cooling.

The system will be a 72" x 48" x 24" 3/4" glass display tank with the front pane being starfire. It will have a ~150 gal sump (not designed yet) and a smaller ~56 gal (36" x 20" x 18") frag tank in line. main tank circulation will be achieved with a sequence pump (unsure of model) running through a OM 4 way back into the tank. In tank circ will also be provided with some type of tunze/vortech/koralia on an appropriate controller.

Heating will be a couple 300 watt titanium heaters, and I am unsure of cooling as of yet.

For lighting I am thinking 2 or 4 400 watt MH with T5HO supplementation for dawn/dusk OR all T5HO... unsure as of yet. The frag tank will be T5HO. Any opinions for MH ballasts? I am using IC 430's and 660's right now for my T5's and have no complaints.

For other equip I am thinking Deltec appropriately sized. I will use a skimmer (prob 2 pump), calcium reactor, and maybe a Kalkwasser stirrer. I have a tunze ATO already that I will move to this set up.

Water will be supplied by a 5 stage aqua safe RODI system. I will use 2 60 gal drums for FW storage and SW mixing.

Now I don't know about the controller.... a neptune system vs profilux? I am away from home a lot so I'd like something I can check up with online. Ill want to control lights (dawn dusk etc), temp (on and off heaters, coolers, lights), and reactors (pH monitors, etc.).

Well enough talk, Here is the pics I made up. Sketchup is great!

Also, anyone know of a reputable Canadian tank manufacturer?

Thanks!!!!

http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k99/Scythanith/Tank%20Pics/old-vs-new.jpg

http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k99/Scythanith/Tank%20Pics/old-vs-new-top-down.jpg

http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k99/Scythanith/Tank%20Pics/tank-and-stand-final-rear.jpg

Scott

[EBOLII]

Just curious is this a purchased tank at ¾”? my 240g 72x24x31 and is ½” and weighs almost 500-550lbs
I can’t tell you what a ¾” tank will weigh but it will be massive

It will be a sweet tank when completed keep the pics flowing eh?

[Scythanith]

It hasn't been constructed yet. That's why I posted it up here, so i could get everyone's suggestions pre build. I am still debating closed loop as well, and i think it's winning the debate....

Pics will come soon as I have them. Here is a pic of the basement haahaa!!!

http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k99/Scythanith/Tank%20Pics/house1011.jpg

Here is my idea for the floor plan but the walls will be flush with the front of the tanks.

http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k99/Scythanith/Tank%20Pics/basementplansix.jpg

Cheers,

Scott

[Scythanith]

Well I emailed aquariumobsessed about the tank and I think I really like the sigolifi modular fixtures! Some T5HO and some HQI would look stellar!

Now I just get to hurry up and wait!

[Muligan]

you will be happy with their tanks I have one and they are awsome tank builders.
The only change I would make to your tank would be the height after you figure the water line for the overflow and the bottom pane of glass
you veiwing window will be on the smaller side.
so possibly reduce the width and add to the height.

[Scythanith]

Thanks for the suggestion! I have a couple questions though. Why would I need to reduce the width? I could just add 2 inches on to the height to offset the overflow level and still have the width and depth I'd like?

Also I'm pretty sure I am going to add a closed loop running off a OM 4 way and maybe a barracuda.

Also Muligan, how did they ship your tank to you?

Thanks for the ideas!

[Muligan]

I was only saying reduce the width to keep the same gallons but yeah for sure keep the width and add two inches to height.

I live in the same area as them so no shipping.

[edwinn]

that is a sweet project cant wait to see this done

[jnarowe]

with the space available, why not try a 72' x 72"? You would get a really nice depth to work with and it would appear more like a slice of ocean rather than a tank.

I sthe tank actually going to stick out into the viewing room like how it's drawn?

[Scythanith]

The biggest problem with a 72" x 72" for me is reaching the middle of the tank. I'm a small fat guy haahaa and I know I'd have a problem with that dimension. Do you think that it would make a world of difference?

Here are a couple new renderings, but I will make the back room larger and leave more space between the side wall and the tank so I can get up onto that side of the tank and do maintenance or place frags.

http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k99/Scythanith/Tank%20Pics/floorplanangled.jpg

http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k99/Scythanith/Tank%20Pics/floorplantv.jpg

Thanks for posting jnarowe, I've followed your build for a while now! And to answer your question, no the tank will not extend out of the wall, plus it will have the larger area in the back room.

Im still waiting for my quote from AO, but they did email me back already and ask for some clarification on some aspects of the tank.

Hella excited!

[Scythanith]

Im just at a stand still, I don't know what to do with that damn teli-post. I want to bring the tanks further out but I just get closer to the post.....

Any suggestions? And no, I can't re engineer the joists, it's a spec home and they only let us get away with so many changes!

Cheers!

[jnarowe]

yeah, and it doesn't look like you can bump out that cement corner! That and the post would tick me off, but that's the way it goes on spec. houses. My neighbor had one built and he got away with a lot, but many of his changes had to be done post-construction. I would get an engineer to review it and deal with the post after construction. There has to be a way to eliminate it if needed. As your drawing stands, the pole will be right in the middle of the tank when viewed from the couch. Maybe swapping the snake tanks to where the reef display is might help.

I can tell you that my tank is 60" deep and it is really cool, but when I visited Steve Weast's tank, I saw what a mistake I made installing mine in the classic way. It would be much nicer (and is) to view through the "side". The view from inside the fishroom is a lot more "reef-like" than the view from the viewing room.

With 72 x 48 you will still have trouble reaching the center of the tank anyway. I place a plank on top of mine and crawl across when I do maintainance. It's not easy but it is fun, and I get a lot of laughs from my other reefer buddies. :) I just wear swimming trunks!

Even 60" x 72" with the viewing panel as the 60" side would give you a much more realsitic reef aquascaping. If I were to do it again, I definitely would do it that way.

What a fun project though! Have you considered mounting the FO tank right up against the reef tank so that they appear to be one system?

[EBOLII]

WOW what a great concept! that will be a great area indeed!

post many images as often as you can eh?

[skewch]

Very nice plans Scott! For a tank builder, check with Custom Aquariums in Edmonton (Aquarium Illusions). Colby can hook you up. Our new tank is massively overbuilt, but it's a beauty.

[Scythanith]

I figured the best thing to do with the teli-post was to just address it after they hand us over the keys, the basement will only be at the rough in stage so it won't require too much demolition. I have a new idea for the location of the main tank and it's falling somewhere along the lines of what jnarowe suggested, PLUS it allows for two viewable sides! It will take up more of the back room, but eh... that's what the basement is for! I'm seriously considering the 72x60x26 if I can configure it to work with two viewable sides. man I need a picture of you crawling on the top of your tank, that's priceless!!

I have been trying to configure it so that they are side by side but I'm running short on useable space! I'll get it figured out before too long!

Thanks for the nice coments ebolii! I am trying to figure out a seating plan and useable space that makes the tanks more front and center for viewing and just overall enjoying! Don't worry, I'm a pictures kinda guy. I'm sure I will max out the old photobucket account with this build. I may make a site to put my updates on after the tank is all up and running.

shewch, are CA and AI in the same building? I'd definitly save on shipping! And the less time in the box, the less the chance of it getting busted up. Colby has a couple of their tanks for his longer fish only tanks in which he means to put tangs in. I help Colby out every once and a while and man the shop. I may have even met you haahaa! Colby is as excited about my tank as I am!

Thanks once again for everyone's comments! I will draw up some new pics and post them for everyone to scrutinize!

Cheers

Scott

[jnarowe]

I would think twice about two viewable sides. IME, island tanks are cool especially if they are look-down installs, but two viewable sides, or even three, really detracts from the illusion of looking out into a reef. In Steve Weast's words, "Too much visual pollution". It all depends on your reef goals, but it seems to me that based on your interest in an in-wall install, you might be looking closely at reef realism.

What do you need the TV for anyway? You won't have any time to watch it! :lol:

[leoskee]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=10163858#post10163858 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by jnarowe


What do you need the TV for anyway? You won't have any time to watch it! :lol:

Thats funny as hell. I thought about that too when I started my basement inwall project. My TV is gathering dust because I am always working on the tank.

[jnarowe]

I put my tank right where I had planned for a couple years to install an HD LCD screen. I have enough TVs anyway...in fact, I spend enough time in the tank room, I have considered installing a small one in there so I can watch news and stocks. :rolleyes:

[tgunn]

Are you planning on venting the fish room separately from the rest of the house?
If not you should really consider adding a Heat Recovery Ventilator (HRV) to your HVAC system.

I live in Winnipeg (similar climate to Saskatoon); my house was built in 89 and is pretty well sealed. In the dead of winter the humidity from my 140g tank was enough to shoot the humidity in the house around 70%. The windows wept and I got mold growing on a closet wall.

With a high efficiency furnace and energy star house you are going to be keeping even MORE humidity trapped in the house. You'll be running your dehumidifier lots to keep up with the humidity.

With the HRV, my humidity runs 20-30% in the winter. Not a drop of condensation on the windows. PLUS the air quality in the house is SOOOOO much better; it's so nice and fresh with air constantly cycling in and out of the house.

With an unfinished basement, installation of the HRV would be a snap; boring some duct holes in the foundation, and running ducts, etc.

Just figured I'd share from my experiences. :) Looks like it'll be an awesome setup though!

[sullyfish]

I did not see a separate refugium on your equipment list, were you planning on having a refugium in your sump ? If it were me I would want a separate refugium of 100 gal or more. That way you could plumb a return to both reef and FO tanks.

I really like the setup and floor plan. Cant wait to see picks.

[EBOLII]

What does FO mean? I agree with tgunn this is the time to make those precautions before construction gets to far. This will help ith the cost

[jnarowe]

FO= Fish Only

[gruntface]

on your floor plan it has something labled bodie and sheila, what is that?

[bbrantley]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=10163858#post10163858 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by jnarowe
I would think twice about two viewable sides. IME, island tanks are cool especially if they are look-down installs, but two viewable sides, or even three, really detracts from the illusion of looking out into a reef. In Steve Weast's words, "Too much visual pollution". It all depends on your reef goals, but it seems to me that based on your interest in an in-wall install, you might be looking closely at reef realism.

What do you need the TV for anyway? You won't have any time to watch it! :lol:

Don't listen to Jonathan or Steve. Those guys are amateurs. Two sides viewable is the bomb. :)

Ben

[skewch]

I think HRV's are required by code now aren't they tgunn? I may be mistaken. We just moved into our new house in April, with an HRV, and yeah, it makes a HUGE difference.

Scott, I don't think they are in the same building, but they are the same guys. Shipping a 230g from Edmonton to our door was only around $200 (weight based I assume, this tank has 1/2" sides and a 3/4" bottom, so she's on the heavy side!). And yes, we have met, many times, LOL.

Susan & Rob

[Scythanith]

tgunn, My system comes with an HRV, as part of the energy star upgrade as well as a dehumidifier, central ac, and a carrier infinity 96.6% furnace which has a feature called idealhumidity. Idealhumidity reads the humidity levels around the house via sensors and will run the DCM motor on the furnace to circulate air past the dehumidifier and HRV. The HRV is suppose to swap out the entire house's air every three hours.

The TV was an after though, I'm leaning towards poker table.

the refugium will be plumber seperate from the sump. I wont have the FO tank running off of it though, I want to keep both systems 100% seperate.

Gruntface, Bodie and Sheila are Wendy's Frilled Dragons! They kick a$$. Just laid a new clutch 7 eggs! Their tank is 6 tall, 4 wide, 2 deep.

AHHHHHHHH Susan and Rob, I gotcha! Now I can put a face to the name. 200 bucks shipping is cheaper thn I could drive there and back for easily!

Here was another idea! Real pictures will come when i have something to take a picture of!

http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k99/Scythanith/Tank%20Pics/floorplanstaggered.jpg

http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k99/Scythanith/Tank%20Pics/floorplanstaggered2.jpg

Man Im getting antsy for the house to get built....... I'm thinking I need to get the stand and tank in before interior walls go up or it'll be tight!!

Rob, I'd love to swing by your place and check out the tank when i get home from work if that's ok with you!

Cheers,
Scott

[Muligan]

if you still can I would talk to the builder about upgrading the stell beam to eliminate the post it will drive you nuts.hopefully it's not to late.

[jnarowe]

hehehe...bite me Ben. :p

[Scythanith]

Muligan: I will just address that once they give me the keys, I have upset the builders enough already by changing a whole bunch of things. Anyone on here a structural engineer?

So jnarowe, what do you think of the latest idea? Think it will take away from the illusion of depth? The walls come past the corners by a foot so it still has somewhat of a sunken in appearance. I got a quote from AO, doesn't seem bad. I'm just waiting to get a hold of Concept aquariums in Edmonton, Alta.

I'm pretty excited, I just ordered a big load of zoanthids and a pokerstar monti from fragfactory.ca and wickedfrags.com. Both business' have been awsome to deal with. The orders should all be arriving tommorrow and Wendy is going to land them all for me. Isn't she a keeper!!! Here is what we all got:

3 joker paly
3 RPE paly
3 ring of fire paly
2 red wine paly
1 pokerstar monti
3 X-Men Palys
Lava zoos
Sunny Side Up zoos
Candy apple green zoos
Gem of the ocean zoos
Bahrainian zoos
Mystery zoos

Im trying to get a good carpet going on a couple unique rocks we have!

Cheers All!

[Scythanith]

I have no clue if those names mean a damn thing, but the pictures were good looking haaahahaaa!

[jnarowe]

Looks better IMO. What's the backside floor plan like with this arrangement?

[Scythanith]

Ill flip it around and fill it with all the goodies and you can check it out! Ill have it done this evening.

Muligan, they already have the walls (prefab kinda stuff) at the job site.... my guess too late? Can a person go back in later and brace it? I honestly don't know, sorry if that's a dumb question haahaa.

Im going to try and get a hold of Aquarium concepts again for a quote. I want to get this tank selection out of the way so I can match what i need to the tank.

Cheers

[Muligan]

your options are limited now.
I'm assuming the sub floor is in place already and the walls you are refering to are the main floor walls prefabed on top of the sub floor

the only real options you have now is to install another steel beam beside the one you have that will clear span the area with no post or add another post so you can change the postion of the one you have.
Either option will need an engineer to spec it for you.

The ideal option was to upgrade the beam before the sub floor went in eliminating the post.

[kev apsley]

looks like my kinda Man Cave!

[Scythanith]

There is no subfloor yet, but I will attach a recent pic of what is there. To be honest, I am not going to ask them to change it now.... that would really upset them and I just want to get into my house asap. So I will address it after the fact which will probably cost more money and be a PITA but..... I like to keep things harmonious with the people who are building my home.

I have a new redo, which will put the snakes by the stairs and bodie and sheila's tank by the 360 reef. It will be a little cleaner and just as easy to maintain.

http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k99/Scythanith/Tank%20Pics/MidJune2007176.jpg

http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k99/Scythanith/Tank%20Pics/MidJune2007179.jpg

http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k99/Scythanith/Tank%20Pics/MidJune2007183.jpg

That's what we have and what stage we are at.

[Scythanith]

http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k99/Scythanith/Tank%20Pics/floorplanstaggeredbswithsump2.jpg

http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k99/Scythanith/Tank%20Pics/floorplanstaggeredbswithsump3.jpg

http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k99/Scythanith/Tank%20Pics/floorplanstaggeredbswithsumptop.jpg

[jnarowe]

man, that would make a nice pool! :D Sure should help keep the system cool too...did you run a ground loop under the slab? That would take care of your cooling needs for sure.

In the last drawing, I am wondering why you have the left side bumped in? If it came across to meet the edge, you could house a larger tank and have more room to work with on the equipment side.

[cioutlaw]

Dont let the builder bully you around. It is your house that your paying a lot of money for. Even if it cost extra do it now before its too late & your living in a house you dont like.

Set up will be awsome when done!

[kh6sat]

Looks great!

[madmike]

i thought the same thing, that it would be a bother to ask the builder to change, but when the realtor mentioned what i was going to do, the builder stepped up and offered to do the modifications because they are easier to do while the house is being built! Most builders want to make you happy so in turn you will tell others about them, most get there business thru word of mouth.

[EBOLII]

I agree with cioutlaw and madmike. IF the builder is decent there should be no problem after all they are performing a service. Besides what could happen they say no and then you have to make modifications anyways. Try it
The latest image why did you move the quad tanks so far away? Are these aquatic or reptile?

[Scythanith]

We bumped the left side in so that we had two viewing panes on the living room side of the tank, makes it a little more dynamic. I like the look of multiple side viewing for some reason! The pipes are extra weeping tile. No geothermal cooling unfortunatley.

We were told specifically with this home that it was a spec home, and all we would be able to change on it was colors. We have already changed flooring, heating and cooling, upgraded it to energy star, moved stuff in the kitchen.....I think they are almost ready to say no way in hell. BUT to satisfy my curiosity I'm getting Wendy to call the builder's today and ask if we can get a beam put in. *crosses fingers*

The 4 tanks are snake tanks. There will be two or 4 more added to that display to accomodate baby snakes that Wendy breeds, and whatever else we get our hands on. It will be finished with a matching style to the rest of the basement, but the tanks will slide out for maintenance, etc. Chances are you won't even notice there is that depression there, we will just finish it flat.

In the back will be more tank racks for Wendy's babie frilled dragons and snakes, and incubator, and some sick tanks. I'm wondering if we should install a garburator on the sink.....incase woodchips and such get into the drain.

BACK TO THE TANK haahaa,

Anyone object to sequence pumps? I will use two, one for the return and one for closed loop. Is there a big difference between the deltec skimmers and the euro reef cell cast acrylic skimmers, I could save some cash if I go euro reef. Is $2700 canadian a good price on my tank? I still have to get a hold of concept aquariums. They called me back but I wasn't by my phone. I'm planning on three luminarcs with 400watt bulbs. Any advantage to using one ballast over another. I have been happy with my IC ballasts for my T5's so far. There is a decent local sump builder, so I might utilize him and then I will make my own frag tank. Do you guys use sch 40 or 80 for your bulkheads?

Thanks once again!

Scott

[EBOLII]

sch 80 but I have a 72x24x31 tank

[Scythanith]

So you will have a little bit more water pressure that me due to the extra 5" of height. I don't want to cheap out on the most simple but CRITICAL of parts. I'll go sch 80 if there are any doubts.

[jnarowe]

I would only use Schedule 80 for bulkheads. They fit better and have MUCH better gaskets. Unfortunately, that means you might have to make holes larger, depending on where you get your tank. When I got my tank, it had all schedule 40. I removed them and individually filed out each hole until it was a perfect fit for a schedule 80 BH.

Sequence pumps are great. I am a big fan. I use a Hammerhead as my return pump and it's got plenty of power, extremely low noise, very reliable, and energy efficient. Can't go wrong with Sequence!

You know, when you have a two-sided tank, you have to keep an extra side clean! :lol:

[Scythanith]

thanks Jonathan! I don't mind scrubbing glass, I plan on keeping the back wall clean as well....eep!

Wendy told me the new zoo's we got are amazing. The red wine palys look stellar. Dave was awsome to deal with!


Cheers!

[jnarowe]

wow, nice corals.

[bbrantley]

Ah, sweet. Going two-sided is the bomb. Don't listen to Jonathan. :)

Sch80 Hayward bulkheads are the way to go. Have your builder size the holes for Hayward -- find the PDF online and send it to them if they don't know the dims. (If they don't, though, you should automatically be just slightly wary.)

Sequence is great. I use Darts for returns.

Try to get that beam put in now. I did a retrofit and it was probably five or six times more expensive to rip out and patch back up than to do it if had been done at build-time.

Good luck,

Ben

[Scythanith]

Thanks for the feedback Ben, I am waiting to hear what they tell Wendy concerning the beam. The tank builder will be either aquarium obbsessed or concept aquariums, so I think either should know what they are doing. I haven't heard too many bad things about sequence either, and they are fairly common now so any major problems should have been evident. My only concern is they are continually updating the product. Don't get me wrong that is a good thing, but when it comes to a break down are there going to be supply issues for parts etc?

[bbrantley]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=10190025#post10190025 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by Scythanith
Thanks for the feedback Ben, I am waiting to hear what they tell Wendy concerning the beam. The tank builder will be either aquarium obbsessed or concept aquariums, so I think either should know what they are doing. I haven't heard too many bad things about sequence either, and they are fairly common now so any major problems should have been evident. My only concern is they are continually updating the product. Don't get me wrong that is a good thing, but when it comes to a break down are there going to be supply issues for parts etc?

I think they are supposedly pretty good about parts, but to tell you the truth I have an extra brand-new one sitting in a box as a backup. When one fails, I plan on sorting out the parts problem after the tank is back running normally again. :)

Ben

[EBOLII]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=10189421#post10189421 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by jnarowe
wow, nice corals. Umm did I miss something?

[jnarowe]

yup. it got pulled.

As far as Sequence goes, I have a spare too. I don't want to be screwing around trying to fix a problem or while I am cleaning a pump. I just want to swap out and get on with it. Having said that, the probability of a failure ever happening is very remote. They are extremely well built and parts are easy to come by anyway. In fact, MDM customer support is very good IMO.

The pump body itself is practically bullet-proof. Mine has been running 24/7 for 15 months straight with no issue whatsoever.

[CableGuy]

Everything Looks Sweet Scott!!!! I also like the idea of getting that post rememoved and put a metal supporting beam instead. Hopefully your builders will allow you to do that. I like the two sided viewing area as well, Kinda like my display tank at the store.

[Scythanith]

Thanks Colby! I value your opinion greatly, pipe up whenever you can.

So what kind of controller should I contemplate going with?

On a seperate note, the plan was to have 3 tanks running in the new house. I am beginning to think that will be too much maintenance so It may only be the FO tank and the large reef tank..... our 85 gal might get the boot.

I don't know. I just want Wendy and I to enjoy the tanks, not be their slaves.

Cheers!

[EBOLII]

Any success with the negotiations?

[Scythanith]

Nope, Wendy has been too busy with work. Plus when she did call, the lady we deal with was out of the office.

Im really impatient...... I want to start buying stuff haahaa!

So did anyone have anything to say about deltec vs euroreef?

My LFS told me he could get me a bubble king for the price of the deltec model I wanted haahaa! I just might have to go with the red top.

[Pike614]

We just built a large ranch-style home, and could span over 20' with beams...not steel, manufactured wood beams. This is an easy switch for any builder, you just have to demand it. You'll thank yourself when it's done. That post will be nearly 6" square once you wrap it with drywall.......I would not minimize this detail! It made all the difference in our home when it came to finishing the basement.

[WhiskeyReefer]

Be sure to keep us posted on the current tank pics!

[Scythanith]

Will do, waiting for the house to be built!

[Scythanith]

Ok so the house is moving along nicely! We have the second story and a roof! The tank is going to have to be assembled on site. My friend Colby and I are going to tackle this one. The dimesnsions of the tank are 6'x4'x26". There will be a rear overflow divided into two sections to preserve the back panel glass strength. The stand will be 2" square stock steel which will be bolted to the concrete floor. I contemplated an acrylic tank but the only way would be to have the builders travel to my home and construct the tank on site.... sounds too expensive to me.

No we weren't able to get the telepost moved but we will figue something out after that fact and rectify it on our own.

Equipment is as follows:
sequence barracuda
2 luminarc III's with 400 SE 20K XM's
4 48" T5 on an IC 660
ER RC180 for now
tunze ATO
vortechs for flow (see if colby can get them)
considering a tunze wavebox (I love Colby's)
Profilux II controller with all the goodies
remote reefugium/frag tank
unsure of which calcium reactor

I'd like to have the majority of my equipment remote mounted on the wall above my sump with a catch tray underneath them so if there is a catastrophe when I am gone the water will flow back into the sump. I will have a remote panel for the fish and reptile room, probably 100amp service. We will have counter space and a utility sink plumbed in.

On a side note: Tank is doing great at home right now (our little 85). Wendy is looking after it while I am gone working. We hate being concerned about the tank while we are both away so we have decided to hook the profilux up to the net once we get it on the new system and I will also have two webcams set up so I can check on the tank/backroom while I am at work.

There will be a relatively low fish load in the system to keep it lower maintenance. I've recently become infatuated with some of the fairy wrasses and I've always wanted a pair of helfichi's firefish. Smaller, unique little critters is the goal.

The rock work will be modelled after a fellow RC members tank (If I could remember your name I'd give you full credit) that has the most gorgeous arches and pillars in their tank. I will use a thicker acrylic to construct the teeth for the overflow and put mounting tabs in it as well to allow for frag placment and rock mounting points.

I'd love to get some type of reliable frag trading system set up with some of you down in the states but I just don't know if it can be done. Legality, people willing to ship stuff that far, etc will all scare people away. If anyone is interested in trying to figure something out (legally preferably) then PM me or just talk on here, I don't mind!

Here are the pics one more time to jog everyones memory:

http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k99/Scythanith/Tank%20Pics/floorplanstaggeredbswithsump2.jpg

http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k99/Scythanith/Tank%20Pics/floorplanstaggeredbswithsumptop.jpg

Thanks for all the help and suggestions!

Scott

[jnarowe]

Looking very nice. Bummer about the pole. And IMO you have no reason to put a wavebox in your tank when you will be using Vortechs. They will make superb waves for you on their own.

[Scythanith]

Ok update! The house is getting insulated and the electrical/HVAC are roughed in. Wendy and I had a sit down with the builders and got them to adjust the basement plumbing to suit the fishroom. The tank will be built on location and I will be buying the glass all pre-cut, drilled, notched and beveled. As for equipment, Colby has been swaying me to use 3 MH's instead of only two (I was going for the island look with two). Also he has motioned me away from vortechs due to some construction problems. Anyone have any problems with theirs? I really wanted some with the wireless wavemaker and the battery back ups.

Im thinking the back room size will be increased some more for equip and just ease of movement.

Say anything that you think may help!

Cheers,

Scott

[jnarowe]

Scott, there is so much info out about the Vortechs it really shouldn't be any problem for you to figure out if they will work for you. You are welcome to PM me regarding them and we can discuss the pros and cons.

[Scythanith]

Ok, I guess I should update this since it's only one month away until we get posession!

I had a great talk with Jonathan and I still am leaning towards the vortechs. We are going to be restricted to having the tank built on site due to size since the house is now built.

I've been buying up quality frags for the last couple months in preperation to stocking this tank!

I've been thinking of just building the sump large enough to put most of the equipment directly in the sump (even if above the water level to try and reduce heat transfer from the pumps). And a smaller remote sump to run probes, etc in. Also, what size electrical panel should I think about getting put in to supply this leech?

Here is what I have so far:

http://i197.photobucket.com/albums/aa286/bindymcj/Our%20House/DSC_0057.jpg

http://i197.photobucket.com/albums/aa286/bindymcj/Our%20House/DSC_0056.jpg

Looking forward to hearing some fresh ideas!

Scott

[Scythanith]

I was wondering if anyone could post some pictures of their dedicated frag tanks. I would like to get some more idea's as to how to make the frag racks within the tank. So Far I am just planning to use egg-crate and small pvc legs. Make a "u" shaped rack and leave the front & middle empty so I can grow out chalice's on a flat surface so fragging is easier.

Cheers,

Scott

[jnarowe]

bring in double the power you think you wil need.

[adam82]

looking good!!!!!

[Scythanith]

Here are some new renderings of the tank:

http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k99/Scythanith/Tank%20Pics/ConceptAquariumsTankcomponentview1.png

http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k99/Scythanith/Tank%20Pics/ConceptAquariumsTankglasstype.png

http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k99/Scythanith/Tank%20Pics/ConceptAquariumsTankcomponentove-1.png

I was recommended to eliminate the coast to coast overflow on the back due to it weakening the glass. Also I will have 2 1.5" returns and the majority of in tank circ will be provided by 4 vortechs.

Now here is my dilemma: Do I get it built by the tank manufacturer and try and wrangle it into the house? Do I buy the prepared glass and assemble it on site myself (with some friends that have built tanks) or do I pay $$$ and get them to come and assemble it on site.

Ahhh decisions decisions....

I'm stoked.... like the title says haahaa!

[Scythanith]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=11369721#post11369721 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by jnarowe
bring in double the power you think you wil need.

Haahaa, we aren't all as crazy as you man! Come on, who builds a 1000 gal tank.... oh wait... you did!

I appreciate all of your advice Jonathan! I am pretty sure the vortechs are going to be in this tank. I think it's going to be 5/8" glass so I should be safe in that aspect. 2 on the right side blowing across the length of the tank and two pushing back to front. Should be able to get some good chaotic flow and maybe a good wave going!

I'll calculate some power useage numbers a little later and run them by everyone. I'm still debating using all T5's...crazy I know!

[jnarowe]

as far as building the tank goes, if you want a warranty, you need to have them build it. If their warranty is crappy anyway, then probably no need to bother.

[Scythanith]

Ok, so I thought I'd add some eye candy to the thread to let everyone know what I will be primarily adding to the tank. I will add more SPS down the road once the tank becomes stable and I will keep the 85 running in the basement out of the way of the main tank and keep all my livestock in it for now until the tanks running bug free.

http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k99/Scythanith/Tank%20Pics/yellowtorch2.jpg

http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k99/Scythanith/Tank%20Pics/greenorangelob3.jpg

http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k99/Scythanith/Tank%20Pics/DSC_0052.jpg

http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k99/Scythanith/Tank%20Pics/DSC_0034.jpg

more to come... just uploading to slow photobucket

[Rickyrooz1]

I like your tank dimensions. Do you have a lighting set up in mind?

[jnarowe]

that alien eye is sweet.

[Scythanith]

Lighting is still up in the air. I want to have a good amount of SPS (whorled monti's & a few choice acros etc) and LPS... I don't want a single wretched mushroom in the tank!!!

I am using all T5's right now on some Ice Cap ballasts and I am very impressed. I just know the coverage over the new tank will require two 8x36" T5's to cover everything and that means 16 bulbs to replace. Or I will go 3 250 watt MH with a small amount of T5's for an early dawn/late dusk effect. I have never used MH's before so I am at a loss for what to plan. A friend just bought a sfigoli fixture and 3 ACLS (or whatever they are called) so I am very curious to see how he likes it. He's also running a bubble master 300 if I am not mistaken, says's it's the best skimmer he's ever ran. I like making things myself and I made my lighting that I have now BUT when I added up the bills I could have purchased an aquactinics solar flare (essentially the same fixture only 48" not 36") for the same price if not a small amount cheaper!!

One thing is I plan to have an offset rockwork scheme to make the most of the space, balancing the negative and positive spaces as well as I can; so I know my lighting requirements will be pretty specific and I don't know if a premade fixture will suit my needs.

On another note Wendy and I have been talking and I think we are going to set up a shallow tank with racking for the corals we have now and then fill the sump with the liverock we have now to try and keep livestock easy to work with instead of in our 30"+ deep tank. Nothing fancy, just about a hopsital tank but not that sterile as we need to host a lot of life in the tanks until the main tank is up and running. Now I think I will start my tank with dry rock in order to avoid unwanted pests (algae, coral predators, etc.) so the tank is going to take a while to get seasoned. Any advice as to how to introduce beneficial bacteria from established systems but to avoid introducing the bad stuff? Maybe toss a couple perferated bags of LR rubble into some sumps of friends tanks then introducing them to my tank (seems risky) or just watch it for a couple months while adding ammonia?

Here is where I am really after RC's brain pool... I am looking for peoples personal experience and preferences so I can try and taylor something that will suit my needs. I am almost 100% sure I am not going to use a probio or zeovit system since I am not home enough to maintain it neither is Wendy.

Looking for experience! Thanks once again everyone for looking and speaking up with questions and potential problems, I really appreciate it!

[Scythanith]

Here are some more, there is another of the 4 colour watermelon for you Jonathan!

http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k99/Scythanith/Tank%20Pics/DSC_0080.jpg

http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k99/Scythanith/Tank%20Pics/Chalice-topshot-black-1.jpg

http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k99/Scythanith/Tank%20Pics/DSC_0018.jpg

http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k99/Scythanith/Tank%20Pics/DSC_0086.jpg

http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k99/Scythanith/Tank%20Pics/DSC_0186.jpg

http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k99/Scythanith/Tank%20Pics/DSC_0199.jpg

http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k99/Scythanith/Tank%20Pics/DSC_0177.jpg

http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k99/Scythanith/Tank%20Pics/IMG_7110.jpg

Please don't steal my pictures haahaa!

[jnarowe]

You are killing me.

[Scythanith]

How about this monti, when I got it I was told it was a pokerstar and then it started getting red, and then i was told it was a wildfire I think.

I just envision the tank with some areas of nice encrusting monti's and chalices.... Imagine a 12" area with this on it!!!

I'm also trying to figure out some portable rock set ups for my zoa's which I will utilize in order to keep the zoa's from carpeting rock I don't want them too.

More Pics!!!!!

When I got it:
http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k99/Scythanith/Tank%20Pics/montipora.jpg

And Now (I hope the base gets that baby blue back!):
http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k99/Scythanith/Tank%20Pics/IMG_6947.jpg

[jnarowe]

Another post went POOF...that coral is sweet. I have had a rough time with montis. The branching ones get dismantled by my female maroon clown and the encrusting ones get quite large and then STN.

I had a dazzling purple polyped encrusting colony that drew every visitor's attention. When it got to about 1 foot square, it started to STN. I fragged and dipped, fragged and dipped, but could only save one small piece by sending it home with Steve Weast. I have it back now but it is no where near its previous glory.

I also have a rainbow and a Tyree Sunset from Steve that are growing very well and looking superb, but I am afraid to move them! :rolleyes:

[Scythanith]

I'd love to see them! I have no experience essentially with SPS so I'm kind of like a fish out of water. I just hope for the best and try not to do anything drastic in my tank.

I'm going to get a controller on the new tank to try and control my parameters a little better, and to be able to track them over time so I can see the influence new equipment will make on the tank.

[tinknocks]

cool setup!

[jnarowe]

I'd love to see them too, but I would have to clean my glass for that! :lol:

[racksteris]

Nice Tank..

[Scythanith]

Haahaa you and your algae!

Thanks everyone, I know this is all just a big tease until I can get the tank in there and get some pictures of it in place and being pieced together but it's all I got right now haahaa.

I'm really excited to get this going, and I have 4 months off of work coming up so the tank is going to be babied.

Scott

[250G]

Looking good Scott. Have you given any thought to how you would get this baby downstairs? With those dimensions it could be pretty challenging if you do not have it build on site.

[Scythanith]

Build on site. It's just whether or not We (Colby and I) build it or pay the tank manufacturer to come to stoon and build it.

[Scythanith]

Ok so this is getting dug up from the depths but there's progress haahaa! I have set up a 40 gal frag tank and been slowly collecting more specimens. Everything I have been doing for the last 6 months has been working towards the 360g.

I bought my first Bubble King, a Mini BK 180 for my frag tank haahaa. Might overskim a little much but that's ok. As for tank manufacturers I am still unsure. But it is easy to say that it will need to be assembled on site. Lighting will be hybrid MH and T5's. I am seriously debating using two Red Dragon II's on controllers for the return. I still haven't given up on vortechs for the main in circulation.

Live stock will be ~50% SPS, ~40% LPS, ~10% Zoa.

Anywho here is some eye candy to keep the thread interesting.

New Jakarta Chalice:
http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k99/Scythanith/Tank%20Pics/Jakarta-Chalice-2.jpg
http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k99/Scythanith/Tank%20Pics/mowhawk-paly.jpg
http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k99/Scythanith/Tank%20Pics/DSC_002211.jpg
http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k99/Scythanith/Tank%20Pics/DSC_0006.jpg
http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k99/Scythanith/Tank%20Pics/Jap-micro.jpg

Lotsa goodies! I am going to work on some new sketchup pictures so I can get peoples opinions!

Cheers and thanks for looking!

Scott

[stunreefer]

Ressurect!

You have some gorgeous corals Scott, looknig forward to watching the 360 progress :thumbsup:

[Scythanith]

stunreefer: Thank you very much! I try to get my hands on some nice stuff out there.

I am weighing my options for tank construction. I really want an A.G.E. tank but it can not fit it down my stairs to the basement. I have spoke with AO a while back and I will see what options I have with them for them coming to the location to build the tank on-site. If that doesn't work I can call Concept Aquariums but last I heard they won't do a tank the dimensions I want (not confirmed with them). And I always have a good friend in Saskatoon with a tank building business that I could get to do it. But I'd feel horrible if it busted, I'm sure that's be tough going after your friend to rebuild a tank lol. If it was a larger business, I wouldn't feel too bad.

I want to keep the system "simple" by cutting out a closed loop. Vortechs will take car of intank circulation. I'd also like to see if a three part dosing system would work out instead of a calcium reactor/kalkwasser top off.

[xXReefXx]

nice coral!!

[jaxspsreef]

sweet setup and corals!

[marcus.breaux]

nice tank build!!!

[Scythanith]

Thanks, I am stuck at the electrical being all in place and the livestock being ready... but no tank yet!

I work away from home months on end and haven't had a good chance to organize anything else. I have a wedding coming up in Oct/09 and need to save the cash for that now!

But the existing 85 gal and 40 gal frag tanks are running well and I look forward to shutting them down for the big boy!

[MrineLfRlz]

I just found this thread and it seems very interesting except the fact that you have not updated in awhile, just wondering why?

[Scythanith]

Hello!

I have been away at work for the last year fairly steady and just haven't had the time to get things going. Electrical is all in place, livestock is all in my 85g, the fish room is pretty much built. No tank yet. Once I get the show on the road I'll get everyone a proper update.

Cheers,
Scott

[KingNeptunesBou]

Planning looks great. Tagging along.

[Scythanith]

This is actually happening now!!!!! Find the new thread HERE (http://reefcentral.com/forums/showthread.php?t=2279526)!

[LiquidAquariums]

I think HRV's are required by code now aren't they tgunn? I may be mistaken. We just moved into our new house in April, with an HRV, and yeah, it makes a HUGE difference.

Scott, I don't think they are in the same building, but they are the same guys. Shipping a 230g from Edmonton to our door was only around $200 (weight based I assume, this tank has 1/2" sides and a 3/4" bottom, so she's on the heavy side!). And yes, we have met, many times, LOL.

Susan & Rob


I own a renovation company in Regina, Saskatchewan and I am not aware of HRV's being required by our building code. There is still debates over the best system to have, being forced air or HRV.

Anyone else from Regina?

[Scythanith]

From the dead!!!! Yep, new home construction requires an HRV according to Sask Construction Code.

HRV and forced air are two different things :) One's to heat/cool you home and the other is to vent/recirculate your air and recuperate your energy expenses.