Newbie with a few questions

[notto2006]

I plan on starting a 30 gallon reef tank. I am planning on buying 2 powerheads, a protein skimmer, about 50 pds LR, and a canister filter. Now the 30 gallon tank is a tank I used for a freshwater tank but it has been empty for a while. My question is is it ok to use this tank? If so how should I clean it to ensure no problems from previous residue. Also, I need a little help in the lighting department. I am new to this and would appreciate any info or advice you have to offer. Also, would like to know some opinions on brands of skimmers and canisters if you don't mind.

Thanks for having me!
Natalie :p

[Ranchhand02]

Do not use chemicals like glass cleaner to clean the tank. You should be able to use the tank with no problem. My quarenteen tank is my old freshwater tank. I would go with T5 lighting if you are going to do a reef. Ask the Grimm Reefer in the lighting forum. He is the expert on lights.

[iamwrasseman]

just use salt and water you should have no problems . i have switched many tanks to salt water and really dont do much to prepare them .quick rinse with salt and water then use a razor blade to clean any residue . be sure to stay away from the silicone so you dont break the seal and create a leak . good luck saltwater is the only way to house fish IMO .

[Playa-1]

As long as you've never used copper in the tank then you should be fine just wiping it out with a mild bleach solution and then rinsing thoroughly.

Lighting requirements depend on what your plans are for the tank. I would recommend that you think about both short term and long term plans for your tank when choosing lighting. It will also depend on the height of the tank.

I'm not personally familiar with skimmers for tanks of that size but I hear good things about AquaC Skimmers. They might be worth checking into but don't hold me to it :D.

I'm not sure that you really need a canister filter, that would be up for debate. There again your future plans for the tank may help to guide you in the right direction.

So, Whatcha planning to keep in the tank?

[Johnny C]

Hey Notto... Welcome to the Boards! :)

I have a 36G myself, so I'll be glad to give you some advice. AquaC Remoras are a great skimmer for our size, and don't run a ton of money. If you haven't already, definatly check your local club for deals on used equipment. For lighting, I'd highly reccomend T5's. I wouldn't waste your time with a canister filter. IMO, as they don't do a ton and can create lots of problems with Nitrates (as most will agree).

Your local club should be found here somewhere...
(http://reefcentral.com/forums/forumdisplay.php?s=&forumid=537).

If you have any ?s, shoot me a PM and I'll gladly help. Good Luck! :D