Finally My Custom Miracle Build with Fish Room

[nightOwl]

It’s been a while since I have had a real tank. My previous tank (180) ended with some phosphate issues and a massive crash. I lost all of the corals in the tank! It was a painful experience but I have been able to live vicariously through a few friends in the hobby. Their encouragement and support have helped me realize its not how you fall down but how you get back up on the horse and try again. With that said I am ready to get back up on the horse!

Since my crash in 2013 a lot has changed. We moved from VA to MD (2015) and while I was a huge adjustment I tried to stay positive about not having access to as many great LFS within 30 mins of our home. While house hunting I decided since I had to move my next house would have to accommodate a full fledged fish room. This did not sit well with the Mrs. at first but she knows how important the hobby is to me and eventually helped find a perfect home that would accommodate a fish room. From my old set up a few of my fish survived so once we moved I set up a temporary tank and a few months later moved the fish over. Shortly after purchasing the new home I started framing for the fish room area but things slowed down drastically as we were between two homes. The past few weeks things have picked back up and now with a deposit officially placed on new tank I figured I would start my build thread.

I talked to a few builders before finally deciding to go with Derek over at Miracles. I was quite surprised at how much quotes varied between builders. But the communication has been great and he has answered every question I have had with no hesitation. Response via email has also been outstanding...it's great to send an email late at night with a question and wake to a response. Estimated delivery time was between 8-9 weeks. It has been about a week or so since I ordered the tank.

I like taking pictures so like my other tank build thread most updates will be accompanied by pictures. I will try to dig up some old pictures to catch everyone up to where I am currently am sometime tomorrow.

Tank Specs
-82" x 40" x 26"
-Main display area is around 72" x 40" x 26"
-All edges machine polished
-Tempered bottom with 4 holes in the overflow section
-Starphire on two sides and one end
-Black Divider panel with 1-1/2” teeth at top
-Vertical strips of glass in each corner for added strength
-Eurobraced
-Four holes drilled in overflow section
-Black silicone seams
-Peninsula style tank but only on side viewable through the wall

Fish Room Plans
-9.5' x 13.5'
-Utility sink
-Water storage/ mixing station
-Cabinets of some sort

There will be a ton of DIY on this thread, tons of pictures, and few bumps along the way. Hopefully this time around my tank will not end in disaster.

[ycnibrc]

Wow congrats I just finishing my 360g build so now I can seat back and watch others. The part I hate the most is the plumbing it will be much more complicated with the fish room.

[worm5406]

Oh very nice. I am glad things worked out between you and the Mrs. Happy Reef = Happy Wife.

This should be an interesting build.

[nightOwl]

Let's Catch Up
Brand New Basement - 05/9/2015
https://c1.staticflickr.com/1/586/32628576443_a26d710b11_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/RHgZ1P)IMG_4982 (https://flic.kr/p/RHgZ1P) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

To test how responsive the wife was to making changes to our new home I started off with a small project. I added a door to access the unused space under the stairs leading to the basement. The builder wanted $600 for this modification and I could not justify it any way I tried to spin it.

From this
https://c1.staticflickr.com/4/3754/33442603815_8777f02a1d_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/SXd5Zv)IMG_4985-2 (https://flic.kr/p/SXd5Zv) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

To this
https://c1.staticflickr.com/4/3922/32628580133_959466e556_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/RHh17r)20150509_172343 (https://flic.kr/p/RHh17r) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

The unfinished part of basement when I am finally done this will be broken into three areas
1. Walk-up bar and viewing area
https://c1.staticflickr.com/1/663/33442604025_2a6a3d0c57_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/SXd648)IMG_4991 (https://flic.kr/p/SXd648) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

2. Fish Room
https://c1.staticflickr.com/4/3949/32628576723_e75e3a5581_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/RHgZ6D)IMG_4993 (https://flic.kr/p/RHgZ6D) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

3. Utility area
https://c1.staticflickr.com/1/707/33402147856_38539721fd_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/STCJQY)IMG_4994 (https://flic.kr/p/STCJQY) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

From left to right - Fish Room, Walk-up Bar, Utility - 05/10/2015
https://c1.staticflickr.com/4/3674/33442604665_da19432c91_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/SXd6fa)IMG_5011 (https://flic.kr/p/SXd6fa) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr


Began Framing - 06/21/2015
I also ran some new wire for lights. If you look back at the pictures on 05/10/2015 there were only two lights in the unfinished area of the basement.

https://c1.staticflickr.com/4/3853/33442604925_4a6e8e8de8_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/SXd6jD)IMG_5029 (https://flic.kr/p/SXd6jD) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

https://c1.staticflickr.com/1/726/32628577243_302054c034_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/RHgZfB)IMG_5030 (https://flic.kr/p/RHgZfB) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

In the picture below you can see a few things. The big lima bean shape is whe builder was supposed to have leveled my floor for me. The floors were really uneven and during our 30 day I had them level the floors. More on that later! You can also see the old light fixture in this picture that is no longer being used. Instead the fish room has two 6 inch cans, the walk-up bar/viewing area has two 6 inch cans, and the utility section has one light at this time.

https://c1.staticflickr.com/1/588/33402149126_f6ba2ce208_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/STCKdS)IMG_5031 (https://flic.kr/p/STCKdS) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

[serenity]

looking good.. I found out when I built our home last year, NOTHING IS LEVEL period!

[nightOwl]

Let's Catch Up - Part 2
06/23/2015
Started running electric in the framing.
https://c1.staticflickr.com/4/3780/33402149596_a06a4d4844_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/STCKmY)20150623_134106 (https://flic.kr/p/STCKmY) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

I framed out the three areas, framed doors for access to both areas (fish room and Utility), framed out soffit around the metal beam, plumbed the walk-up bar and fish room for hot and cold water.

https://c1.staticflickr.com/1/695/33442605435_a59399fc5e_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/SXd6tr)IMG_5035 (https://flic.kr/p/SXd6tr) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr




08/16/2015
I framed around the window and began testing the outlets in the fish room. I also added a direct line for connecting my RODI unit. I also started the plumbing for the utility sink. This was changed later.

https://c1.staticflickr.com/1/601/33402150166_885b73e9cf_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/STCKwN)20150816_214158 (https://flic.kr/p/STCKwN) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

10/29/2015 - Basement flood
This was a night one of the debates was on and I had intended to make about 20 gallons of water for a water change. I remember my wife calling me at 8 and running upstairs to watch the debates. The next morning I woke and realized I did not remember cutting the water off.

This is the culprit - 300 gallons a day with a booster pump
https://c1.staticflickr.com/1/661/33404042596_8009a42d6c_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/STNs5U)IMG_5059 (https://flic.kr/p/STNs5U) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr


Over two inches of water in the basement in the unfinished part the carpet and padding was completely soaked and at this point I realized just how much they had not leveled my floor. You know its bad when you call in Servpro. My wife was very calm about the situation...for the next week I slept very lightly as I was afraid I would be murdered in my sleep...lol. I remember saying "Honey well we got the flooding out the way." No claim was filed...I did the right thing and paid out of pocket!

https://c1.staticflickr.com/1/629/33287049222_617275b1d9_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/SHsQ2L)20151029_101018 (https://flic.kr/p/SHsQ2L) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

https://c1.staticflickr.com/1/652/33442605915_ec7e8c4f79_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/SXd6BH)20151029_101030 (https://flic.kr/p/SXd6BH) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

https://c1.staticflickr.com/4/3688/33287053472_57a2c4abaa_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/SHsRi3)20151105_154059 (https://flic.kr/p/SHsRi3) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

https://c1.staticflickr.com/1/752/33402150766_2a2cbd42c5_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/STCKH9)20151105_154028 (https://flic.kr/p/STCKH9) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr



01/05/2016
Made a prototype of the tank to see how it would sit behind the wall.

https://c1.staticflickr.com/4/3808/33287053812_67aae10fbc_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/SHsRoU)IMG_6045 (https://flic.kr/p/SHsRoU) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

01/25/2016
First layout of where the water mixing station and new sink placement. The area to the left will have my frag tank and a place to store QT tanks for fish.

https://c1.staticflickr.com/3/2810/32628582353_ffb264070d_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/RHh1LH)20160125_195712 (https://flic.kr/p/RHh1LH) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

[nightOwl]

Wow congrats I just finishing my 360g build so now I can seat back and watch others. The part I hate the most is the plumbing it will be much more complicated with the fish room.

ycnibrc - Welcome aboard. I am hoping to keep plumbing simple. I may have two separate systems but still not sure.

Oh very nice. I am glad things worked out between you and the Mrs. Happy Reef = Happy Wife.

This should be an interesting build.

worm5406 - Larry don't let me catch you and your upgrade progress...lol. Welcome aboard. I am trying to make sure she does not run any interference. She almost pulled the plug on the upgrade since I was dragging my feet.

looking good.. I found out when I built our home last year, NOTHING IS LEVEL period!

serenity - Welcome aboard. It's amazing how unlevel and un-square a house really is. I have been doing the work myself so I can see where they have not been as accurate as I thought. The cool thing is since this is not my real profession I gave myself a pass on being super perfect. As long as I come close to what they did I am good. I am learning mud and molding hides everything :).

[Xebadir]

Hah - I'm glad i'm not the first (nor probably the last) to flood a basement because I forgot to turn off the RO/DI unit. Glad to see that you managed to clean it up though. Looking forward to following along on your build.

Speaking of non-square - I find it almost depressing to own a level with my new place - there is one place where the previous owner obviously decided to literally cut some corners. I think its good your not putting too much of it on you and working within it (need to remember that).

How are you planning to finish the flooring in the new section? If tile or vinyl if its too much out might be worth putting a concrete waterproof sealer and self leveling compound or similar just to straighten things out.

As a final Q - how do you find that Rigid Mitre saw? I was looking at getting one for some framing and redoing the baseboards on my place.

[dave.m]

Instead of leveling the floor perhaps you should have dug it up and installed floor drains first... just in case. If you're putting in a fish room with a sink you're going to need a drain for it anyways so why not get the whole thing done at the same time?

Dave.M

[Sambo107]

I like the frag tank and QT design, are you plumbing the frag tank into the display?

[SPotter]

thats all you have gotten done in almost two years???????? get moving on it!!!!!

:spin3::spin3::spin3::spin3::spin3:

[tommyhere777]

Nice

[tommyhere777]

Awesomeness

[SPotter]

Awesomeness

the march to 50 meaningful posts :spin3:

[nightOwl]

Let's Catch Up - Part 3

01/16/2016
Air King DH55 Dehumidistat Switch arrived
https://c1.staticflickr.com/1/674/33442602885_8bf53eb778_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/SXd5Ht)20160303_135225 (https://flic.kr/p/SXd5Ht) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr


02/04/2016
Started cutting hole for my viewing area
https://c1.staticflickr.com/4/3821/33287049642_80ae11c0bf_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/SHsQa1)20160204_180657 (https://flic.kr/p/SHsQa1) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

02/23/2016
Re-plumbed the utility sink. Instead of cutting the concrete and doing a floor drain I am using a utility pump - Liberty Pumps 404 1/3 HP. Due to the way the french drains were laid in floor and the placement of main sewer drain. I could not cut into the floor without major reconstruction. My builder made a mistake and forgot to let me know the placement of the main drain was behind the line to sump pump and some slab vent. When I asked for the site plans the builder let me about the issue.

https://c1.staticflickr.com/4/3790/33402151596_b0d9d9ba7b_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/STCKXs)20160223_184640 (https://flic.kr/p/STCKXs) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr



Sink in place
https://c1.staticflickr.com/1/778/32628582503_ed19714f0c_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/RHh1Pi)20160223_184934 (https://flic.kr/p/RHh1Pi) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

03/02/2016
Vent for fish room arrives
https://c1.staticflickr.com/4/3828/32628582673_2b53387c88_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/RHh1Se)IMG_6552 (https://flic.kr/p/RHh1Se) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

03/06/2016
Frame in place for viewing area
https://c1.staticflickr.com/4/3905/33402146046_16674ebb69_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/STCJiL)IMG_6591 (https://flic.kr/p/STCJiL) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

08/14/2016
My hole saw arrived a few days earlier and my wife was in the kitchen when I opened the box. The conversation went something like this. Her - "Honey what is that for. I am a little concerned you need to cut a hole that big." Me - "It's to cut a hole in the back of the house for my vent." Her - "Maybe you need a smaller vent." Me - "To late I can't return it." I left the kitchen before she could ask anymore questions...lol.

I was a little nervous about drilling through the house but it went pretty well. Once I had cut the siding I was at the point of no return so it had to work. In the end it turned out very nice.

https://c1.staticflickr.com/3/2888/33442603085_5e87d62d79_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/SXd5LV)IMG_7625 (https://flic.kr/p/SXd5LV) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

https://c1.staticflickr.com/1/684/33442603165_a6c1cf24a0_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/SXd5Ni)IMG_7627 (https://flic.kr/p/SXd5Ni) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

https://c1.staticflickr.com/4/3676/32628583023_f3fe0ff2f8_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/RHh1Yg)IMG_7630 (https://flic.kr/p/RHh1Yg) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

[bobbravo2]

Nice energy recovery ventilator!

[savvybuckeye7]

Following along!


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[nightOwl]

Hah - I'm glad i'm not the first (nor probably the last) to flood a basement because I forgot to turn off the RO/DI unit. Glad to see that you managed to clean it up though. Looking forward to following along on your build.

Speaking of non-square - I find it almost depressing to own a level with my new place - there is one place where the previous owner obviously decided to literally cut some corners. I think its good your not putting too much of it on you and working within it (need to remember that).

How are you planning to finish the flooring in the new section? If tile or vinyl if its too much out might be worth putting a concrete waterproof sealer and self leveling compound or similar just to straighten things out.

As a final Q - how do you find that Rigid Mitre saw? I was looking at getting one for some framing and redoing the baseboards on my place.

Xebadir - Welcome aboard. The sad part is that I have flooded the basement a few more times just not as bad...lol. What's even sadder is I have two auto shut-off kits somewhere around here.

I have now given up on trying to find square rooms in this house. Our sit in tub is so un-square when I pointed it out to the builder he was like looks like we missed that one.

For the floor in the fish room I will probably use some of the stuff you put down in garages. The walk-up bar area I think it will be tile or some of the new stuff that is waterproof that looks like wood. If I do tile I was thinking of doing a mosaic in the center with a seahorse similar to my last stand.

I love that miter saw. I have had it for many years now and it has worked flawlessly for many years. If you can get a sliding one. I had to buy sliding one recently to be able to cut wider material.

Instead of leveling the floor perhaps you should have dug it up and installed floor drains first... just in case. If you're putting in a fish room with a sink you're going to need a drain for it anyways so why not get the whole thing done at the same time?

Dave.M

dave.m - Welcome aboard. Due to builder error a floor drain would have been more expensive than I was wanted. The floor needed to be leveled when I first moved in. When I showed it the builder they admitted that it was outside of their tolerance for QC.

I like the frag tank and QT design, are you plumbing the frag tank into the display?

Sambo107 - Welcome aboard. I am still up in the air about the frag tank being part of the main display since It will be on the opposite side of the tank. I am still up in the air about how to plumb it and have it return back to the main sump under the tank. Any ideas or suggestions?

thats all you have gotten done in almost two years???????? get moving on it!!!!!

:spin3::spin3::spin3::spin3::spin3:

SPotter - Welcome aboard. Steve I am still updating the progress...lol. Remember one year does not count as we were between two homes...lol.

[locito277]

This is gonna be fun!


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[nightOwl]

Nice energy recovery ventilator!
bobbravo2 - Welcome aboard. I like the vent. It is very quiet!


Following along!


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savvybuckeye7 - Welcome aboard.

This is gonna be fun!


Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk

locito277 - Welcome aboard. It's gonna be gonna be a fun ride for sure.

[nightOwl]

Let's Catch Up - Part 4
09/28/2016
I finally got some drywall put up. Drywall is a pain in the butt especially hanging it by yourself. The fish room has the mildew resistant (green) drywall. I figured since its going to be a high moisture area better to take some precautions.

https://c1.staticflickr.com/1/706/33442603615_aaf177a23d_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/SXd5W4)IMG_8705 (https://flic.kr/p/SXd5W4) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

https://c1.staticflickr.com/4/3716/32628583143_40cf4495c3_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/RHh21k)IMG_8707 (https://flic.kr/p/RHh21k) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

https://c1.staticflickr.com/1/723/32628583473_4c96c8f4a7_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/RHh272)IMG_8709 (https://flic.kr/p/RHh272) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

02/11/2017
And then there was mud. I hate mud! Mud and sanding is the worse but the end results are great.

https://c1.staticflickr.com/1/777/33402153426_76c11f585d_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/STCLv1)IMG_0242-4 (https://flic.kr/p/STCLv1) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

https://c1.staticflickr.com/1/712/33402153596_69f0fe6b95_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/STCLxW)IMG_0244-4 (https://flic.kr/p/STCLxW) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

https://c1.staticflickr.com/4/3808/33402146966_560d0ca0b9_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/STCJzC)IMG_0245-4 (https://flic.kr/p/STCJzC) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

https://c1.staticflickr.com/4/3827/33402154176_a1abb40852_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/STCLHW)IMG_0249-4 (https://flic.kr/p/STCLHW) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

I forgot when I swapped the door out but I added the 48" French door to enter the room. I think it will make the entrance grand when entering the back area.
https://c1.staticflickr.com/4/3907/32628584093_69a48675b4_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/RHh2hH)IMG_0250-4 (https://flic.kr/p/RHh2hH) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

[gioNVA]

Glad you're back in. Can't wait to see the progress.

[nightOwl]

Glad you're back in. Can't wait to see the progress.

gioNVA - Francis Welcome aboard. I'm glad to be getting back in man. I am hoping I can get back to having healthy corals once the tank is up and running. Hopefully your tank is doing well.

[nightOwl]

Let's Catch Up - Part 5
02/11/2017
Had my buddy Tom39 (Tom) come by and help me with ceiling seams. I had pretty much completed all seams but the ceiling seams were giving me issues. Tom was kind enough to come by on a Saturday and literally spend the whole day helping me.

02/20/2017
Finally got around to putting some primer on the walls in the fish room. The first coat was soaked up by the drywall. So I will now need another coat.

https://c1.staticflickr.com/3/2839/32666694743_a642eb49e6_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/RLDmfT)IMG_0358 (https://flic.kr/p/RLDmfT) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

https://c1.staticflickr.com/4/3815/32637374554_8e55be8fc4_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/RJ45oo)IMG_0359 (https://flic.kr/p/RJ45oo) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

I need to move the sink and finish the drywall behind the sink. Once that is done I can add the last coat of primer and then apply some paint.

https://c1.staticflickr.com/3/2900/32637374644_1430b9f18c_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/RJ45pW)IMG_0365 (https://flic.kr/p/RJ45pW) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr


03/02/2017
Ordered my new tank. Below is the description on the invoice:
82" X 40" X 26" HIGH CUSTOM
AQUARIUM 3/4" GLASS A/A
STARPHIRE 2 LONG & 1
SHORT TEMPERED BOTTOM
WITH 4 HOLES 2-1/2" INLINE
5" OFF END FULL WIDTH
BLACK DIVIDER W 1-1/2"
TEETH INTERNAL
EUROBRACE 4-1/2" WIDE
EUROBRACE VERTICAL
STRIPS

And with that we are all caught up on my progress.

[Brunzy]

Great looking room! It looks like you are coming along fast here!

[SPotter]

what did you decide for the stand???

[nightOwl]

Great looking room! It looks like you are coming along fast here!

Brunzy - Welcome aboard or good luck on the post minimum.

what did you decide for the stand???

SPotter - Steve speaking of stand I was working on a design today. I was going to share :).

03/16/2017
Stand Design v1.0
I worked on my stand design a bit today! I sent it over to my builder to see if they have any concerns. This may change but I will share version 1.0. The stand as designed has a top rail made from 2" x 4" steel. The rest of the stand is made from 2" x 2" steel. Corner gussets are 4" x 4" triangles. Top and bottom gussets are 1.5" x 1.5" squares. All have 1/4" holes that I will use to attach the front and top. The stand will have a 3/4" sheet of plywood on the top and the face of the stand. The foam pad will be 5/8" from what the builder said. Overall dimensions of the stand is 84" L x 42" W x 39" H. The stand will have removable self leveling feet. Another feature it will have is a walk-rail. This will be great since I will have no front access to the tank. With the walk-rail I will be able to access the front of the tank with out any issues.


https://c1.staticflickr.com/4/3838/33483803775_b4c5928ccd_k.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/T1RfiD)2x4Stand-with walk rail (https://flic.kr/p/T1RfiD) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

https://c1.staticflickr.com/3/2848/33355611481_79711f8158_k.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/SPwecF)2x4Stand-with walk rail-top (https://flic.kr/p/SPwecF) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

https://c1.staticflickr.com/3/2844/33355611631_4b3b94f8ea_k.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/SPwefg)2x4Stand-with walk rail-side (https://flic.kr/p/SPwefg) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

[Dragon1979]

Following

[worm5406]

So did you get any work done this past weekend??

Cant slow down on this you have to keep moving forward.

[Tom39]

I agree with worm5406, what progress if any were you able to make this weekend?

Sent from my SM-G930V using Tapatalk

[McPuff]

Those are nice dimensions for the tank. Looking forward to seeing this progress. Don't be surprised how much time you spend looking in through the sides of your tank in the fish room. :0)

[nightOwl]

Following

Dragon1979 - Welcome aboard.

So did you get any work done this past weekend??

Cant slow down on this you have to keep moving forward.

worm5406 - Larry stop being funny. We (including you) were out framing a workout room this weekend.

I agree with worm5406, what progress if any were you able to make this weekend?

Sent from my SM-G930V using Tapatalk

Tom39 - Tom welcome aboard...that goes for you too...lol. We (including you) were out framing a workout room this weekend.

Those are nice dimensions for the tank. Looking forward to seeing this progress. Don't be surprised how much time you spend looking in through the sides of your tank in the fish room. :0)

McPuff - Welcome aboard. Part of the reason I ended up getting Starphire on the end and the back was because I knew how much time I would spend looking through the tank. I like taking pictures as well so I am expecting to get some great shots through the clear glass. On my old tank that was in the wall like this one I spent a lot of time looking at the corals from the end of the tank also.

03/17/2017
I found out I don't have to change my stand design. Derek at Miracles signed off on the design which is great. I sent the stand design off to a local company the same day to see if they could do the project.

I also realized I had not posted the schematics for the tank. The main display area is roughly 73.75" x 40" x 26". The other area if my overflow section. I plan on using a Herbie Overflow setup. Bulkheads will be provided by Miracles as well.

https://c1.staticflickr.com/1/749/33460692646_2b79a457e2_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/SYNNaU)82x40-w-4-holes (https://flic.kr/p/SYNNaU) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

03/18/2017
No progress was made in the fish room. Saturday I spent the day with some buddies (worm5406 - (Larry), Tom39 - (Tom), and RJT - (Richard) framing out a workout room and running electric for Richard. I did however do a 30 gal water change on my temp set up to try to fight some nitrate issues.

03/20/2017
Today I spoke to Chuck over at Capitol Heights Iron Works and they will be making my tank stand to my specifications. It's something exciting about designing something and then having it built. As they make progress I will post some pictures. Hopefully the end product turns out like I envision it in my mind. I am I am debating if I should get it power coated or not. If I don't powder coat it I have seen a few things people use to protect the metal. I did my down payment today so once the material arrives he said it will be about 3 weeks to complete. Things are slowly coming together :).

[worm5406]

worm5406 - Larry stop being funny. We (including you) were out framing a workout room this weekend.

03/18/2017
No progress was made in the fish room. Saturday I spent the day with some buddies (worm5406 - (Larry), Tom39 - (Tom), and RJT - (Richard) framing out a workout room and running electric for Richard. I did however do a 30 gal water change on my temp set up to try to fight some nitrate issues.


Yes and we did have fun! Even if we did not have a dust pan.

[nightOwl]

Yes and we did have fun! Even if we did not have a dust pan.

worm5406 - Larry I am still chuckling about us not having a dust pan and the look on Richard's face when we asked why we could not use the one from upstairs in the kitchen.

[ddanis60]

Following and looking forward to build updates! great clean work.

[worm5406]

Any progress?

[brownmarc]

Following along and paying close attention as I am looking for a house in MD with Fish Room Space lol. Great work by the way!!!

[nightOwl]

Following and looking forward to build updates! great clean work.

ddanis60 - Welcome aboard.

Any progress?

worm5406 - Larry work has gotten pretty crazy so I really have not made much progress.

Following along and paying close attention as I am looking for a house in MD with Fish Room Space lol. Great work by the way!!!

brownmarc - Welcome aboard. Look for a place with a morning room and an unfinished basement area. I knew I was set as soon as I saw the morning room with the unfinished part in the basement.

03/23/2017
During my ultra excitement about my stand I forgot to take into account the width of my fish room doorway. I am working with my stand builder now to revamp my stand design. This is what I sent over to him:

https://c1.staticflickr.com/3/2876/33362700580_b3a1d7856f_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/SQ9yxw)2x4Stand-two parts- 3 (https://flic.kr/p/SQ9yxw) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

https://c1.staticflickr.com/4/3846/33362701450_2e31123b3a_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/SQ9yNw)2x4Stand-two parts- 2 (https://flic.kr/p/SQ9yNw) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

https://c1.staticflickr.com/4/3846/33362701450_2e31123b3a_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/SQ9yNw)2x4Stand-two parts- 2 (https://flic.kr/p/SQ9yNw) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

I also worked on my back wall table. I need to take pictures of the work I did. During the process I found out how uneven my floors really are. I built a temp stand for my sink as well but after doing a water change in my temp tank the sink is a bit high. I am going to redo the height. With the amount of space left over I am going to go with two 65 Gallon Norwesco Vertical Tanks.


03/24/2017
I put project on Thumbtack to get a quote for how much it would cost to have the floor leveled. I am going to get an estimate to see how much it will run. based on the number of shims I will have to use I have to come up with a better plan.

[iced98lx]

Subscribed.

Consider DIY floor leveling? Mix N Pour leveler is easy to use.

[nightOwl]

Subscribed.

Consider DIY floor leveling? Mix N Pour leveler is easy to use.

iced98lx - Welcome aboard. That is the plan. The area has so many spots that are uneven it's it had to mix enough in one shot to fix the issue. If their estimates are two high I will need to rent one of those cement mixers so I can mix several bags at one time to do bigger pours.

[iced98lx]

if you can wrangle some friends, you can mix 5 gallons at a time and pour while they are mixing the next one etc etc.

[SPotter]

I would only worry about leveling the area where the tank stand will be. had this issue with my tank back in NJ. that tank was 72x36 so we built a form with 1x2's that was slightly larger than the tank footprint. poured the mix into the area and leveled it out. I don't see a need to do the entire area of the room.

[halmus]

I would only worry about leveling the area where the tank stand will be. had this issue with my tank back in NJ. that tank was 72x36 so we built a form with 1x2's that was slightly larger than the tank footprint. poured the mix into the area and leveled it out. I don't see a need to do the entire area of the room.



I feel better about what I did with my tank after reading this. That was almost my exact same process recently. I propped up the critical points with metal shims to level and then filled everything in to the forms with self leveling.

I used some heavy duty double sided tape to secure the forms to the floor (cement) and contain the leveling cement as much as possible.

I also ran a layer of duct tape on the inside of the forms prior to pouring to help them release easier from the cement.

Capped everything off with the trimwork to hide the ugly.

[nightOwl]

if you can wrangle some friends, you can mix 5 gallons at a time and pour while they are mixing the next one etc etc.

iced98lx - This may be an option if the estimate comes back too high. Great option if renting a mixer is more expensive than I want as well.

I would only worry about leveling the area where the tank stand will be. had this issue with my tank back in NJ. that tank was 72x36 so we built a form with 1x2's that was slightly larger than the tank footprint. poured the mix into the area and leveled it out. I don't see a need to do the entire area of the room.

SPotter - I have thought this as well. The problem is the back wall were I plan to have the frag tank has some issues as well.

I feel better about what I did with my tank after reading this. That was almost my exact same process recently. I propped up the critical points with metal shims to level and then filled everything in to the forms with self leveling.

I used some heavy duty double sided tape to secure the forms to the floor (cement) and contain the leveling cement as much as possible.

I also ran a layer of duct tape on the inside of the forms prior to pouring to help them release easier from the cement.

Capped everything off with the trimwork to hide the ugly.

halmus - Welcome aboard. This is why sharing really helps. It's funny how most of the issues we encounter as reefers someone else has already experienced.

03/23/2017 - Continued
The uneven floor issue I have is I would have to make both sides have some type of raised area. So instead I just want to make it even. Also If I make any changes with the back wall layout I would have to make another raised area. In the picture below you can see the skeleton of the back table and the sink platform. The back wall I was thinking I would do in three parts but since I need to lower the sink I will make it in two parts. The area to the right of the sink is where the third part was going to go. Instead I will have a single platform where the sink and the two water containers will rest on.


https://c1.staticflickr.com/3/2889/32946711733_3cdbc9d982_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/Scovy2)20170323_181044 (https://flic.kr/p/Scovy2) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

[Tom39]

Henry, if you cover material costs, I will fab and weld you some adjustable legs for the frag tanks and make you a sink support that hangs from the wall which will eliminate the need for legs on the sink.

Sent from my SM-G930V using Tapatalk

[nightOwl]

Henry, if you cover material costs, I will fab and weld you some adjustable legs for the frag tanks and make you a sink support that hangs from the wall which will eliminate the need for legs on the sink.

Sent from my SM-G930V using Tapatalk

Tom39 - Tom I will text you for more details on the legs. The sink will be OK because it has the utility pump under it.

04/01/2017
Not much progress today. Things are kinda on hold until I have the guy comes out next week to look at the floor. I have moved the back wall stand out of the fish room so space is kinda tight. I did mange to make the top and bottom parts for stand for the water storage and sink today. I cut the legs as well but did not attach until I follow up with Tom about his adjustable legs idea.

I spoke to Chuck over at Capitol Heights Iron Works about my stand modifications. The price did not go up too much so if you are in Maryland and need some custom work done so far the experience has been great. They are very reasonable price wise. Hopefully next week he will be able to start and I will go by the shop and take some pictures of any progress he has made and post back here.

[nightOwl]

So I have been a little behind on updating this thread. Work has been really busy but I hope to get back on track.

General Updates

04/04/2017 - Frag Tank Ordered
I decided that since I was already getting my main display from Miracles I would add a cool frag tank as well. So I measured how wide my back table was and had them build me custom frag tank.

Frag Tank
https://c1.staticflickr.com/3/2866/33988898800_be2c2b86f7_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/TMtZsy)36x24 w internal 3 (https://flic.kr/p/TMtZsy) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr


04/13/2017 - Uneven Floor and Back Table
So after talking to a few contractors I came to the conclusion that it was not worth the money to have the floor leveled. I can use that money on something else like a cool sump. So the back table that I had nailed and glued together will be taken apart and I will try to reuse the wood where possible. I talked to Tom (Tom39) and we decided I will just measure each leg independently and make the cuts as needed.

I am also going to redesign the area to the left of the sink. I plan on using two vertical 65 gallon tanks. I picked them up this past weekend and they are in the garage so I will try to get some pictures before the weekend but wan to see if they fit.


04/13/2017 - Stand Construction Underway

My good buddy Chuck over at Capitol Heights Iron Works called me to stop by and I went by their shop to see some of their progress. So far this has been a great experience. If any questions come up or he is unclear on something he does not hesitate to call and ask me to stop by. The pictures below are the initial progress. The first two parts of the top are well underway and things are looking good.

Stand Bottom
https://c1.staticflickr.com/3/2831/34214573982_412fa63ef2_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/U8qCPY)IMG_0457 (https://flic.kr/p/U8qCPY) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

Stand Top
https://c1.staticflickr.com/3/2848/34372957055_3ac8118eb6_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/UnqoAB)IMG_0454 (https://flic.kr/p/UnqoAB) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

Stand Top
https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4179/34372955215_80568e5e14_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/Unqo3T)IMG_0455 (https://flic.kr/p/Unqo3T) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr



04/23/2017 - More Primmer and Paint
For my final coat of drywall primmer I choose some BEHR All in One Primmer Sealer. I used this stuff before and I liked the way it sealed some wood I was painting for my last stand. My good buddy Steve (SPotter) recommended Sherman Williams Water Based Epoxy for the fish room. I decided to use it on the walls matching the existing walls in the house. Eventually It will all flow together and hopefully look like it was part of the house originally.

Primmer
https://c1.staticflickr.com/3/2834/34372817585_705a59bbf0_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/UnpF8X)IMG_8740 (https://flic.kr/p/UnpF8X) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

Paint
https://c1.staticflickr.com/3/2824/33562407813_e304aa9691_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/T8N7xF)IMG_8752 (https://flic.kr/p/T8N7xF) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr



04/29/2017 - Walls Finally Painted
I finally got the walls painted and most of the face plates back on the outlets and the fan grill installed. Minus a few imperfections overall I think things turned out pretty good. I stood back and patted myself on the back and felt pretty proud of the work I have done so far.

Walls finally painted
https://c1.staticflickr.com/3/2827/33562377433_b709f2a361_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/T8MXvT)IMG_8759 (https://flic.kr/p/T8MXvT) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4173/34372778165_534992ba6f_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/Unptqi)IMG_8760 (https://flic.kr/p/Unptqi) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

[Tom39]

Looks great! At this pace, I think that you will finish your build before I finish mine.

Sent from my SM-G930V using Tapatalk

[nightOwl]

General Updates Continued
04/29/2017 - Floor Etching
While trying to decide on what I wanted to do with the floor I decided to try some concrete stain by BEHR. The stain is a two part mix with a one gallon base and then two smaller quarts to use. Before using the floor has to be etched and cleaned. I tried a dry form of an etching chemical but ended up using straight muriatic acid to really get the job done. I recommend a really good respirator mask (don't try the cheap ones...I almost passed out), open all windows possible, have a fan bringing in fresh air, have a another sprayer filled with a baking soda mixture, and do not have any metal tools around or near the room where you are using the acid. On contact with the concrete the acid creates a yellow cloud and starts fizzing and any metal that the cloud touches will appear to be rusted and it does not come off. I prepped the walls with plastic and went to work and filled my new sprayer with the acid. To stop the acid you need to apply the backing soda mixture to neutralize the acid. Make sure to clean the flow well.

Concrete Stain Base
https://c1.staticflickr.com/3/2863/34372778045_e867e5a390_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/Unptoe)IMG_8772 (https://flic.kr/p/Unptoe) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

Accent Stain
https://c1.staticflickr.com/3/2826/34372778495_33b28d9a84_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/UnptvZ)IMG_8773 (https://flic.kr/p/UnptvZ) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

Sacrificial Sprayer
https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4155/34372778305_dfb57a7876_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/UnptsH)IMG_8761 (https://flic.kr/p/UnptsH) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

Drylok Etch (not really strong)
https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4159/33562377863_0757138407_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/T8MXDi)IMG_8766 (https://flic.kr/p/T8MXDi) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

Floors Prepped and Walls Taped
https://c1.staticflickr.com/3/2846/33562378073_39bffdc31a_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/T8MXGV)IMG_8777 (https://flic.kr/p/T8MXGV) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4182/33562377593_cc781ac669_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/T8MXyD)IMG_8780 (https://flic.kr/p/T8MXyD) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr





04/30/2017 - Updates on Tank
I talked to Derek and asked if there were any updates on the tank and the pictures below are what he sent over. He also mentioned that they were starting on my frag tank so things should start moving along pretty fast.

Tank - 82" x 40" x 26" :) this baby is gonna be huge
https://c1.staticflickr.com/3/2808/34373293835_8504b26f41_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/Uns7Ha)IMG_5497 (https://flic.kr/p/Uns7Ha) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4173/34726947885_48700382b3_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/UUGFJM)IMG_2630 (https://flic.kr/p/UUGFJM) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

[nightOwl]

General Updates Continued
05/08/2017 - Stand Updates
Chuck gave me a call about the stand and asked me to stop by. He had a question on how I wanted the walk rail attached and if the idea they had about making bracket to hold the walk rail. The pictures below are the current progress and hopefully should not be much longer before they are done. The stand will still need to be primed and I think I will have them use some Rust-Oleum Black Hammer paint. I am not sure if I will need to add a protective layer over top of it but I liked the look on a sample piece of metal they showed me. The stand will be screwed together once everything is in place. They still have to make the leveling feet, drill holes in the gussets, and finish the walk rail but things are coming along pretty good.

Top of Stand with Walk Rail Sleeve
https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4167/34582917991_5ef9789141_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/UFYuEK)IMG_8784 (https://flic.kr/p/UFYuEK) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

Walk Rail Sleeve
https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4156/34673511886_4d05e81daa_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/UPYP5s)IMG_8785 (https://flic.kr/p/UPYP5s) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

Bottom of Stand
https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4174/34582918291_739ab91f73_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/UFYuKV)IMG_8786 (https://flic.kr/p/UFYuKV) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr



I will try to make some more updates tomorrow. I need to charge the camera battery and get some pictures of the floor in its current state.

[nightOwl]

Looks great! At this pace, I think that you will finish your build before I finish mine.

Sent from my SM-G930V using Tapatalk

Tom - You are well ahead of me...you have water in yours! I am jealous about how fast you were able to add an addition onto your house and set up a tank in the time it has taken me to finish one room in the basement...lol.

[SPotter]

awesome update!!!! glad to see you went with the one part epoxy. How do you like it?

[nightOwl]

awesome update!!!! glad to see you went with the one part epoxy. How do you like it?

Steve - I like it a lot so far I have seen where stuff just kinda wipes off without any issue issues. When I did the floor I got some stain on the walls and was able to wipe it off with no issues. The places where I let it sit that is a different story...lol.

[nightOwl]

General Updates Continued
05/02/2017 - Ordered Sand For Tank
I guess I am old school on a reef tank is not a reef tank without sand so after a few discussions with various reefers I decided I needed sand in this tank as well. In the past I have had fairly deep sand beds but this time around the sand bed will not be as deep. I also plan on getting a sand sifting goby or some other fish/critter that keeps the sand overturned. The sand under the rocks has always been a detritus pit but I think I may have a solution. I have have been reading a few threads about using epoxy mixed with sand to keep detritus from settling under the rock.

I plan on having a few base pieces where the sand and epoxy mix will act as the base and the larger rocks will set on top. Detritus will not be able to settle in the sand and I can just use a turkey blaster to keep it from settling. Well that is the plan so we will see how it turns out. I need to find the right epoxy to use and place an order. PetsMart had a sale on CaribSea Aragonite Aquarium Reef Sand that I could not pass up so I ordered a few bags. Each box contains one bag. When the FexEx guy arrived last week I felt bad and helped the guy unload the truck...lol. They have been setting in the garage for a week or so. Please excuse the box of cooking oil...that's for tailgating season.

https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4271/34744888915_d531a18b0e_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/UWhCYT)IMG_8795 (https://flic.kr/p/UWhCYT) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr




05/10/2017 - Started prepping Lumber for Back Table
I started cutting some boards for my new back table. The top and bottom rails and the runners. The legs will be cut individually. One tool when making my stands I have always used was a pocket hole jig. I had a small one but once I started planning for this upgrade and after seeing Tom (Tom39) use the K5 when he helped with the ceiling drywall I brought one. I have had this a while but wanted to show point out its a great tool to have.

Future Back Table
https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4195/34744890795_7b75ce16d2_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/UWhDxi)IMG_8812 (https://flic.kr/p/UWhDxi) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

Pocket Jig
https://c1.staticflickr.com/4/3918/32666694583_e63df12467_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/RLDmd8)IMG_0352 (https://flic.kr/p/RLDmd8) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr


05/13/2017 - Picked Up Water Storage ContainersWhile home for Mother's Day I visited AgriSupply to pick up two Norwesco 65 gallon vertical tanks. They had the best prices that I could find without paying for shipping and I wanted to see them in person before purchasing them. They have 1-1/4 threaded drain opening so I need to pick up some plumping parts and figure out how I will plumb them together. This will give me the ability to do a 65 gallon water change or 130 gallon if something goes really wrong.

Model: 45192
Capacity: 65 gallon
Polyethylene construction
Height: 43 in.
Diameter: 23 in.
Fill opening: 8 in.
Outlet/drain: 1-1/4 in.
Self-vented, slosh-proof lid

65 Gallon Vertical Tank
https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4155/34744889835_93ac641ab5_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/UWhDfK)IMG_8806 (https://flic.kr/p/UWhDfK) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr




05/18/2017 - Floor Update
I have been working on the floor and think I am almost done with making it look random. I am going to let the floor dry out another day or two and then look to add the sealer. Tonight I had planned on touching up the walls near the bottom where I got stain on the walls but ended up painting the whole room again. The floor came out much darker than the sample was on the BEHR pamphlet. I am not sure if it is because it is indoors or the sample was really off. Overall I think I like the way it turned out but I am not sure how durable it will be. In any account it will look cool for a while :).

Floor
https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4187/34744888455_6b718e0fe0_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/UWhCQX)IMG_8793 (https://flic.kr/p/UWhCQX) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

Up Close
https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4161/34360074360_f3cd60935b_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/Umhn2b)IMG_8794 (https://flic.kr/p/Umhn2b) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

[worm5406]

I really like the forward progress Henry. All that work looks great and I cant wait for the build trip/date.


I see that you have a dust pan to use, too.

[nightOwl]

I really like the forward progress Henry. All that work looks great and I cant wait for the build trip/date.


I see that you have a dust pan to use, too.

Larry - I am getting excited about the progress again man! You better get that garage cleaned out the weather is not excuse anymore. Yea I have a big dust pan...lol. I may post a picture in my next update for Richard...lol.

[nightOwl]

General Updates
05/23/2017 - Floor Update
I finally finished sealing the floor and I hope it will stand up to the use of traffic and normal wear and tear from buckets and such. I also put down my base trim. I ended up buying some adhesive and a spreading tool to make sure adhesive was spread evenly. I did not have a roller to run across the trim once on the wall but ended up using a candle to roll along the trim. As the candle rolled over the trim you could hear the suction taking place. Hopefully this is glued on well. After the trim was put down I added a some clear caulk along the floor and bottom of the trim.

Walls prepped and first coat of sealer down
https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4225/34105953653_7817af355f_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/TXPVMF)IMG_8848 (https://flic.kr/p/TXPVMF) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

Goes on milky white but clears up clear
https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4243/34105951933_b627fbf550_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/TXPVh2)IMG_8851 (https://flic.kr/p/TXPVh2) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

Touch up paint and trim finished
https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4255/34261615664_9fe7b0af30_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/UczJFs)20170524_214225 (https://flic.kr/p/UczJFs) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr



05/25/2017 - Tank Update
I talked to Derek and the tank is done. I would have had it on June 1st but the logistics did not work out. I will plan to get the tank on Father's day weekend and round up some people to help move the tank into the basement through the egress window. I am a little worried I can see the glass on the frag tank but I guess they ship things all the time so hopefully it will make the trip from Canada to the US safely.

All crated up

https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4258/34296136303_8685dcfba6_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/UfCEsT)Message_1495733227423 (https://flic.kr/p/UfCEsT) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr





05/25/ - 06/01/2017 - Water and Sink Station
So the back table and the water and sink station have been through a few changes. I now finally have a layout that should work. I had to make some modifications again due to space issues. The back table also will be changed once again to accommodate getting a 48 inch AquaBox sump in the space for my frag tank.


Proposed layout
https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4249/34261615944_5e8868c535_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/UczJLh)20170527_130129 (https://flic.kr/p/UczJLh) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

Work in progress - will have two 22" L x 17" W x 10" H drawers
https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4212/35104791325_9cd3675e8b_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/Vu6eqR)IMG_8875 (https://flic.kr/p/Vu6eqR) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr


05/31/2017 -Sump update
I have been trying to find someone to make a custom sump but prices are just ridiculous once you get over 48" and factor in shipping. One good thing about local clubs is people do some great work or know of some people that can match quality of some of the big manufacturers. I emailed a few companies but did not hear back anything from them and almost began to get frustrated about the process. Finally I found Pure Reef Systems and I have been in talks with Brendan about a custom sump and top-off container. We worked together to design the sump and I am now waiting on a quote for a sump and top-off container.



06/02/2017 - Stand Update
My stand was finally ready to be picked up and I was really looking forward to getting this stand home. I picked up the stand from Capitol Heights Iron Works and was told by Chuck before arriving two people would be able to manage the stand. When I arrived to have them load it on the truck I finally realized how big this thing was and how heavy it was. Lucky for me Richard (RJT) does not live far and had already agreed to help me get the stand into the house. I let him know upfront we may need some extra hands and the stand was heavier than I expected. When he arrived and saw it on the back of my truck I could tell his first reaction was "I should probably get back in my car, pretend he did not see me and go home"...lol. As we were about to pull the truck around back one of my neighbors saw us and came over to see what I was doing and ended up helping us. We unloaded the stand in two parts and were able to bring it through the egress window with room to spare on my homemade ramp with stopping points. Thanks again Richard for not complaining, not running when you saw the stand, and helping me out!

Capitol Heights Iron Works crew
https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4219/34941086392_30f2de2b3a_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/VeCcE1)20170602_163552 (https://flic.kr/p/VeCcE1) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

Ramp I quickly threw together
https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4214/34941086782_15f0a02055_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/VeCcLJ)20170602_180829 (https://flic.kr/p/VeCcLJ) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

Front view
https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4258/35104790685_3e4a2dff71_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/Vu6eeP)IMG_8867 (https://flic.kr/p/Vu6eeP) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

Side view
https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4220/34718157950_4a3c444c1b_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/UTVCNb)IMG_8866 (https://flic.kr/p/UTVCNb) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

[748S911]

Looks amazing... can't wait to see it filled up!

[SPotter]

Looking great Henry!!!!! Really excited for you!!!!!

[nightOwl]

Jesse - Welcome aboard man.
Looks amazing... can't wait to see it filled up!

Steve - I just reserved my UHAUL a few minutes ago so I am all set for next week.
Looking great Henry!!!!! Really excited for you!!!!!

[WillisT]

Keep us updated please

[nightOwl]

General Updates

06/09/2017 - Water Storage and Sink Updates
I have finished painting and all that is left to do now is the add a piece of trim along the bottom edge of the stand. I think it turned out pretty good. I have removable supports for the sink since I need to be able to remove the utility pump from inside the sink. I also also added a removable front access panel so that I can check on he pump. Finally two fully extendable drawers. I need to finish the back table before I can fully put it in place.

Water Storage
https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4206/35089446010_9d35d0456f_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/VsJzNs)IMG_9423 (https://flic.kr/p/VsJzNs) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr



06/16/2017 - Tank Stand Update
I decided this go around that instead of plywood I would use a PVC sheet for the top of the stand. I bolted it in place with some stainless steel screws. I cut the sheet a little bit larger than the top and then used my router and a flush trim bit to get it to size.

PVC Top on Stand
https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4206/35089449020_8833047c80_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/VsJAGm)IMG_9367 (https://flic.kr/p/VsJAGm) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr


06/17/2017 - Tank Update
I must say Miracles did a truly amazing job. I had heard people complain about the seams on their tank in a few threads so when I ordered I let Derek know that was one of the main things I would be inspecting. I must say that there are no issues on this tank and I am super picky! I figured the only way to help companies get better is to let them know what people are complaining about. Because of the size of the tank I had to pick it up from the depot in Elkridge, MD. I wanted to try to get a curbside drop off but was unable to. I took a half day on Friday, picked up my U-Haul, and headed to the depot and had them load the tank in after inspecting it. When I initially opened the crate the guy running the forklift asked did I run an aquarium or business. I told him it was for my home and he said “Huh looks like it's for an aquarium or doctors office” with a confused face…lol. It’s always funny when people outside the hobby try to figure out why we want a tank so big.

For a tank this size Derek recommended 8 people to carry it. I starting texting a few buddies a week or so earlier and even put a post on a local forum for possible help. Once I reached 8 people I was excited and prayed no one backed out. My thinking was for everyone to arrive on Saturday morning around 8:00 AM EST eat some Krispy Kreme donuts and be done by 9:30 AM EST. Tom (Tom39) and Richard (RJT) were the first two and the other guys are my buddies outside the hobby. Since I had already did a dry run with the stand I figured my ramp would come in handy once again. On Saturday we moved the crate from the U-Haul onto a trailer, drove the tractor around the back of the yard and backed the trailer up to the egress window, and unloaded the tank. This was after we had to build a few temporary supports from spare 2 x 4’s, scraped some bark off my tree in the yard with the trailer and the tractor, oh and found out that ants make huge nests in colored mulch. Said ants will also cover your shoes and socks crawl up your leg and bite you…lol. Once inside we placed the tank on the side, lifted it up on some homemade dollies I made, pushed to the fish room, and finally lifted the tank up onto the stand. The only issue we had was when the tank was let down on my finger and in my mind I said “Hmmm my finger feels like there is a lot of pressure on it.” When I looked down I realized the tank was on my finger I very calmly said “The tank is on my finger”. No one seems to notice until became a little more animated…lol. Once everything was in place I handed out McDonald’s gift cards and we started cleaning up. We were all done by 11:30 AM EST after starting around 8:30 AM EST or so.

Oh they ended up packing the frag tank inside the crate. The tank is much heavier than I thought so I am very impressed with the frag tank as well.

My U-Haul
https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4265/35089447870_0cc6928504_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/VsJAmw)IMG_9362 (https://flic.kr/p/VsJAmw) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

Tractor and Trailer (Tom's)
https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4212/35476006795_20ed8e933f_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/W3TNRz)IMG_9371 (https://flic.kr/p/W3TNRz) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

Tractor (Tom's)
https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4287/35345693021_18328790c2_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/VRnV7n)IMG_9370 (https://flic.kr/p/VRnV7n) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

Damaged Tree
https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4264/35089448660_a3de807c25_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/VsJAA9)IMG_9382 (https://flic.kr/p/VsJAA9) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

Tank
https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4212/35089448120_f33930801e_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/VsJAqQ)IMG_9431 (https://flic.kr/p/VsJAqQ) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

Tank with Walkboard
https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4255/35476007195_0d7a2e3c8c_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/W3TNYt)IMG_9419 (https://flic.kr/p/W3TNYt) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr




06/17/2017 - Lighting Update
I have spoken with a few places about lighting and the options out there. Im still a hold over from the MH era but I was convinced to try LED’s. I decided to try Reef Breeders I spoke to Logan a few times over the phone and he was very straight forward when answering my questions about the lights and what they could do. I sent over my specs and what I planned to do with the tank long term. Heavy SPS dominated! Based on his suggestions I was told I could light the tank with 3 fixtures but if wanted to make sure I had great PAR and coverage four units would be the better option. I ended up going with 4 -32” Photon V2 fixtures and 24” Photon V2 fixture for the frag tank. I hope I have enough light…lol.


06/21/2017 - Back Table Updates
The back table has been built, primed, and painted. There are few little things I still need to do but I plan on painting the stand with another coat of paint then adding the accent pieces for the trim. I decided that I wanted a nice cabinet for storing stuff in for my back wall as well so I started making the cabinet. I am debating on if it will have sliding glass doors or regular wooden doors. I have two shelves already made and just have to drill some holes to make some adjustable shelves.

Primed and Painted
https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4242/35476006935_4df13d345e_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/W3TNTZ)IMG_9426 (https://flic.kr/p/W3TNTZ) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr




06/22/2017 - Sump Updates
Pure Reef Systems is officially building my sump for the main display. I sent my deposit check to Brendan last week and he has ordered the materials. I checked my email a bit a go and he sent over the specs for what we have designed so far and now I just need to review and send back to him for the official build. I think the sump is currently 52.5” x 22” x 15- 3/8" white PVC sump with acrylic windows. The ATO will be 30" x 15" x 15-3/8" and both will be made of 3/8" material.

[FireReeferSteve]

Following


Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk

[BZOFIQ]

Very nice built!

Subscribing for more ideas.

[748S911]

Henry, anytime you need some help let me know. I was super busy last two weeks with work, off tuesdays and some Sunday's. I can't wait to see this in person filled with corals and fish. I know who to call when i build my own fish room in the future lol.

[reefzone123]

holy custom work batman. beautiful tank. applaud you for your efforts. thanks for sharing.

[nightOwl]

Following


Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk

FireReeferSteve - Welcome aboard.

Very nice built!

Subscribing for more ideas.

xoomer - Welcome aboard.

Henry, anytime you need some help let me know. I was super busy last two weeks with work, off tuesdays and some Sunday's. I can't wait to see this in person filled with corals and fish. I know who to call when i build my own fish room in the future lol.


Jesse- Thanks for the kind words. I will let you know when is ready for prime time. Hopefully you won't be on tank #4 by the time I get water in this baby...lol. Plus I need to see what corals you have now...lol.

holy custom work batman. beautiful tank. applaud you for your efforts. thanks for sharing.

reefzone123 - Thanks for the kind words. Just trying to do my part to help add to the hobby and the economy...lol.

[nightOwl]

General Updates



06/27/2017 -Equipment Inventory
I started to pull out some of the stuff I had purchased for the new tank even though I am a ways away from putting water in the main display. I snapped a quick picture to see what I had and I still need a lot of stuff :(. I need to order my skimmer sometime this week and I will be going with the Simplicity 800DC. I have talked to a few people and the skimmer gets pretty good reviews. I have also talked to the people over a Simplicity and they have been really nice and helpful each time I have spoken with them. I am currently using their 2100 DC pump on my "temp" (going on two years now) set up I have.

I still need the following:
Sump - Ordered
ATO Container for Main Display - Ordered
ATO Container for Frag Tank - Ordered
Skimmer - Need to Order
Ball Valves - Researching Cepex
Dry Pukani Rock - BRS is currently out of the 18" plus pieces

Once I get the items above I think I can make some progress with the main display

A Few of the Items I Already Have
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4119/35575052962_198b291e4b_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/WcDrQ7)IMG_9459 (https://flic.kr/p/WcDrQ7) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

1" Sea Swirls
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4212/35356489710_0fc1dc370f_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/VSkfAb)IMG_9461 (https://flic.kr/p/VSkfAb) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr


07/02/2017 - Back Table Updates
I finished my trim work on the back table. All my edges have a outside corner trim on them now that is PVC. I also added a PVC backslash wall on the back table. I had some 3/4" PVC from the sheets used to make the top of stand and the the bottom piece. I did a test fit then caulked everything in place. I did a test fit of my sump for the frag tank and looks like things are coming together.

Legs Without the Trim
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4095/35575051932_1d6729b9db_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/WcDrwm)IMG_9439 (https://flic.kr/p/WcDrwm) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

Back Table Without Back Splash
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4067/34934692453_7709eaf5b9_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/Ve4qXF)IMG_9458 (https://flic.kr/p/Ve4qXF) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

PVC Back Splash
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4128/34934692813_4804e47baa_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/Ve4r4T)IMG_9463 (https://flic.kr/p/Ve4r4T) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr


07/03/2017 - Cabinet Updates
I finally mounted my cabinet that I had built and only have a few minor things to finish. The shelves have to be primed and painted, fill in nail holes, and cut holes for the sliding doors, but its pretty much done. I made a jig and drilled some holes so I can have adjustable shelves. Overall dimensions of the cabinet are 36" x 21" x 12.5". Its rock solid and hung on the wall with two heavy duty anchors that can hold 238 lbs a piece. Its also screwed with two 4 inch screws in one of the studs. I also replaced my temp cords to the right of the cabinet with the real ones I will be using.

Holes Drilled for Adjustable Shelves
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4100/35356490060_48cf728f0f_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/VSkfGd)IMG_9465 (https://flic.kr/p/VSkfGd) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

Mounted in Place
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4241/35575053552_69ab25ee5b_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/WcDs1h)IMG_9466 (https://flic.kr/p/WcDs1h) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

Final Touches Still Need to be Done
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4236/35613029141_6c02b21333_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/Wg15PP)IMG_9469 (https://flic.kr/p/Wg15PP) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

[nightOwl]

General Updates Continued
07/03/2017 - Frag Tank Updates Updates
I placed the frag tank in place marked the location of the holes and realized my support rungs for the table were in the way. After some adjustments I finally found a location where I could drill and be able to run the drain lines. I ran out to home depot to pick up some plumbing parts and hopefully will make some progress in the next few days. In the process of seeing how things would be in place I opened my 24" Reef Breeder light. I am new to LEDs but this thing seems bright especially reflecting off the bottom of the tank with things painted all white.

Sump for Frag Tank
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4036/35613027221_96a9b1f57a_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/Wg15fH)IMG_9437 (https://flic.kr/p/Wg15fH) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

LED Testing - 24" Reef breeders
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4119/35613029431_bafb1084c2_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/Wg15UP)IMG_9483 (https://flic.kr/p/Wg15UP) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

Plumbing Parts
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4069/35575054112_52a3b136e8_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/WcDsaW)IMG_9484 (https://flic.kr/p/WcDsaW) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

Frag Tank in Place with Sump
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4218/35613030511_15f70c457b_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/Wg16er)IMG_9489 (https://flic.kr/p/Wg16er) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr



The room is coming together...

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4207/35613027551_abd787b057_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/Wg15mp)IMG_9486 (https://flic.kr/p/Wg15mp) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4234/35575055622_dbb182821c_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/WcDsBY)IMG_9487 (https://flic.kr/p/WcDsBY) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

[SPotter]

Wow Henry everything looks amazing!!!! Really coming together now!

[nightOwl]

Wow Henry everything looks amazing!!!! Really coming together now!

Steve - It's taking longer than I want but I want things set up the way I want before I try to start messing with the water to avoid all the dust that comes along with sanding drywall and stuff. I am waiting on some plumbing parts now so I probably should work on the outside room a bit.

[nightOwl]

General Updates

07/09/2017 - Frag Tank Updates
I started plumbing the Oceans Motion that will reside on the frag tank. I found a new place called Supply House for plumbing parts that has next day shipping and low prices. This was my first order and I need another order to do some other plumbing in the fish room. I ended up getting the initial plumbing done for the overflow, the oceans motion, and the sump. I also decided that the styrofoam under the tank was an eye soar so I added some trim.

Plumbing Parts
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4208/35829244325_9f5c2b57c5_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/WA7f4P)IMG_9490 (https://flic.kr/p/WA7f4P) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

Before
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4238/35829245205_9ffab0b2d7_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/WA7fjZ)IMG_9501 (https://flic.kr/p/WA7fjZ) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

After
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4239/35696896171_79bf7d9f99_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/WopVz6)IMG_9506 (https://flic.kr/p/WopVz6) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

Initial Oceans Motion Plumbing
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4277/34988962144_149c64447b_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/ViRzs1)IMG_9547 (https://flic.kr/p/ViRzs1) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr



07/09/2017 - Cabinet Updates

I have finally finished the cabinet over the frag tank. I caulked the trim, touched up the places that needed a little touch up paint, drilled the holes for the sliding doors, added a decorative edge to the shelves, and added the divider for the cabinet. One less thing on the list!

Edge Before
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4214/35829245475_2a965e7e06_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/WA7fpD)IMG_9508 (https://flic.kr/p/WA7fpD) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

Final Cabinet
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4217/35696897601_9ff05dff39_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/WopVZK)IMG_9544 (https://flic.kr/p/WopVZK) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr



07/09/2017 - Main Display Updates
I had a few packages arrive on Saturday from Premium Aquatics with the new salt I will use on the new system and 100 lbs. of dry Pukani. I requested large pieces over 14" and overall I am pretty pleased. I had two very large pieces over 16", two medium long shaped over 14", four to five pieces over 12", four over 10", and the rest were 8" and under. The boxes were packed excellently and there was little to no breaking when I received them. In the past I had have Pukani rock arrive and there was a lot of smaller pieces and breakage. I started playing around with some aquascaping and the framing of the tank.

I also started the plumbing for the second Oceans Motion that will be on the main display. I need more plumbing parts and they will arrive hopefully on Wednesday. I will have to wait until my sump arrives to really truly complete the plumbing but at least I have started.

Packages
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4241/35696895911_cee0558963_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/WopVuB)IMG_9497 (https://flic.kr/p/WopVuB) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

Aquascape Front
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4264/35829244825_a3295f1610_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/WA7fdr)IMG_9525 (https://flic.kr/p/WA7fdr) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

Aquascape back
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4287/35440916210_49d66e78ba_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/VZMXDu)IMG_9527 (https://flic.kr/p/VZMXDu) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

Aquascape Top Down 1
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4214/35696897331_4504127ba1_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/WopVV6)IMG_9528 (https://flic.kr/p/WopVV6) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

[nightOwl]

General Update - Continued
Main Display Continued
Aquascape Top Down 2
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4285/35440916610_0bd5c8aed8_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/VZMXLo)IMG_9542 (https://flic.kr/p/VZMXLo) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

Oceans Motions Plumbing
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4230/35696896401_d6041c2cd0_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/WopVD4)IMG_9510 (https://flic.kr/p/WopVD4) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

Oceans Motions Plumbing
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4232/35696896651_b4e2530a37_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/WopVHn)IMG_9514 (https://flic.kr/p/WopVHn) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr


Overflow Plumbing - the fourth hole will allow me to do 20 gallon water changes at time.
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4214/35829245755_81c27e0df2_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/WA7fut)IMG_9511 (https://flic.kr/p/WA7fut) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

[Megabyte]

Looking good.

[nightOwl]

General Updates - Continued

07/08/2017 - Water Station Updates
Last night I was tired and forgot to do my update on the water station first so this is in the wrong order but oh well. Saturday I worked in the basement for a little bit while my wife was at class. I wanted to mount my RODI machine and after trying a few places I put it on the end of the back table below the window. My unit is a 300 GPD its the same unit that caused me to flood the basement when we first moved into the house. In order to mount the unit I had to take things apart. I had what I thought was my permanent sharpie but that was not the case. I got a little side tracked doing other stuff and then I realized the pen I used was not permanent and when I was pulling the hoses apart the ink got smeared. AquaFx units have a phone number on them so I unit so I called and hoped someone would be able to help. It was close to 5 PM when I called and all the technicians for the day had gone. Barbara was so helpful...she searched for the cell phone number of one the guys and told me give him a call. I felt a little bad about calling someone on who was off but wanted to put the unit back together. I called Doug who was off at this point but did not hesitate to help me with reconnecting all the tubes back to the correct places. He walked me through step by step on how to connect the tubes and even offered to FaceTime me when I seemed a little confused. I give AquaFx (Barbara and Doug) an Outstanding Customer Service award for working after hours! Right now things are temporarily in place until I figure out how I am going to plumb the water storage tubes together.

The blue tape on the wall is where another cabinet is going to go. It will be roughly 48" x 12" x 14". I may do something similar to the other cabinet or have cabinet doors on this one.


https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4238/35440915920_906c55857b_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/VZMXyu)IMG_9521 (https://flic.kr/p/VZMXyu) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4256/35696896981_2ac28825ea_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/WopVP4)IMG_9522 (https://flic.kr/p/WopVP4) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

[McPuff]

Have to say I'm super impressed with the amount of work you've done and the patience you've displayed.

[nightOwl]

Have to say I'm super impressed with the amount of work you've done and the patience you've displayed.

McPuff - Thanks for the kind words. It beats my day job and helps give me something to look forward too in the evenings after sitting behind a desk all day :).

[nightOwl]

General Updates

07/12/2017 -Water Station
I am also getting closer to reconnecting all the parts needed to make RODI water again. I am hiding my booster pump under the sink area so I made a little stand for it and had to extend the wires a bit. I clipped the wires added a new three foot section of cord then used some quick connects and then shrink wrapped the connection area. Once I plugged every thing back up the booster pump came on and I let it run for a bit to make sure everything was fine. I have a high pressure auto stopper but I need to find it. I can not remember where I put it and its been in storage somewhere for over two years now.

Booster Pump Stand
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4318/36007452576_6320f2eb84_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/WRRBaS)IMG_9561 (https://flic.kr/p/WRRBaS) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr



07/14/2017 - More Plumbing Parts arrived
I ordered some more plumbing parts for the returns and for the the water station. I don't think I can go wrong with more unions. Each Oceans Motion is going to take a minimum of four and then there is the other plumbing I will need for the plumbing under the tank. I also ordered a spare heater for the frag tank. I want to keep the the temperature pretty stable so I will be using two 250W heaters. I also ordered another 300W for my main display.

Plumbing Parts
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4316/35659816380_45c7468d57_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/Wk8T3m)IMG_9559 (https://flic.kr/p/Wk8T3m) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

Lockline for the Returns
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4316/36007452746_b789df293b_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/WRRBdN)IMG_9566 (https://flic.kr/p/WRRBdN) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

Plumbing and Light Rack Parts
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4296/36007453026_83bc78893f_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/WRRBiC)IMG_9570 (https://flic.kr/p/WRRBiC) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr





07/14/2017 - Light Rack
I had been waiting for my order to come in with my sliding closet door kit and it finally arrived. On my previous tank I used it for my light rack and on this one I figured it would be a useful addition as well. Instead of sliding front to back like on my last tank I decided to slide from right to left.

The rack is built with 3/4" x 1/8" thick aluminum L Channel. I picked up a few pieces, some eye bolts, nuts, 1/2" rivets, a new saw blade, and washers and I was able to get a good idea of what it would look like. The lights themselves weigh much more than my old MH reflectors so I wanted to make sure this thing was sturdy. I still need to figure out how I will mount the ballasts and add some support to the middle but this is pretty much done.

I had some left over yoga mat laying around from my water station base so I have been using that as my foam padding for my projects. Each rail where the fixture sits has a strip of padding so there would not be metal on metal contact. the rack is built with a slight ability to adjust the lights roughly 4 inches in either direction. I ended up cutting out a grove due to the fact fixtures have a cord on one side.

Dry Fit Spacing Check
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4294/36007450126_d555fde0fa_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/WRRArC)IMG_9575 (https://flic.kr/p/WRRArC) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

Inner Support Strip
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4298/35878233162_e4c735a6a9_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/WErjJW)IMG_9576 (https://flic.kr/p/WErjJW) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

Not Bad For a Miter Saw
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4306/36007453986_e750273380_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/WRRBAb)IMG_9581 (https://flic.kr/p/WRRBAb) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

Height Check
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4295/36007454356_3dfedb2b5e_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/WRRBGy)IMG_9583 (https://flic.kr/p/WRRBGy) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

Fixture End
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4295/35914975881_9224b226cc_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/WHFD56)IMG_9573 (https://flic.kr/p/WHFD56) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

Light Rack
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4315/36007455426_4bf323a76a_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/WRRC21)IMG_9601 (https://flic.kr/p/WRRC21) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

[nightOwl]

General Updates - Continued
07/15/2017 - Fish Room Window
I finally made a trip to Home Depot and picked up some casing for the window and now my window is framed and all it needs is the piece of casing to go under the window sill and be painted. Once I caulk the window and plug all the holes from the finishing nailer that will be one less thing I need to do on the back wall. I am getting excited because this is winding down my construction projects for the fish room and the next step is real plumbing and focusing on the tanks. The picture below is a dry fit where I had to re-cut the top casing because I over cut the piece after not taking into account the length with the reveal on each side. I will take an updated picture after all the painting is done.

Window Framed
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4311/36007454496_3f32d73dbd_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/WRRBJY)IMG_9584 (https://flic.kr/p/WRRBJY) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr


07/16/2017 - DIY Sea Swirl Bracket
Buying items used is often a gift and a curse. Sometimes all the parts are not present so you are left with a few options. Forego using the item, save it as spare parts, contact manufacturer and buy the part, or my favorite DIY. I reached out to the manufactures of the Sea Swirl and inquired about the bracket that was on my other Sea Swirl that is great for Eurobraced tanks. The price was not bad but when I added it to my cart and estimated the shipping I figured this was perfect time to try acrylic bending. After a couple of YouTube videos and some quick measurements I went to the garage to get some scrap black acrylic, my heat gun, and my tap kit. I cut me a strip that would allow multiple tries at bending. The first attempt failed but I learned the more clamps the better to get a nice looking edge. The second attempt worked and I made it all the way to the final stage then realized I need to drill holes. When I tried to drill the hole for a phillips head screwdriver it broke. The third attempt I feel I was fairly successful. I measured and drilled the screw holes before making my first bend along with adding the recessed area so the top of the screw was not higher than the acrylic. After I made the final bend I drilled the screw access hole and tapped the plastic with tap wrench. Below is what I was able to produce.

Before
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4312/36007452216_40dac5a522_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/WRRB4E)IMG_9557 (https://flic.kr/p/WRRB4E) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

After
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4325/36007455266_0f765ef744_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/WRRBYf)IMG_9599 (https://flic.kr/p/WRRBYf) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

Clamps Are My Friends
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4322/36007451216_eb89ab552c_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/WRRALq)IMG_9595 (https://flic.kr/p/WRRALq) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

My Bracket
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4312/36007455136_0242887205_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/WRRBW1)IMG_9598 (https://flic.kr/p/WRRBW1) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr



07/19/2017 - Equipment Update
A while back I talked to the guys over at Simplicity about the skimmer options they provide and although I have used Reef Octopus in the past I wanted to try something new. I contacted a few people on here that have the skimmer and got some really good feedback. Some had used the same skimmers I have in the past so that was great to see they took a leap of faith as well. I currently use their DC pump on my temp set up and the customer service has been really good when I contact them with any questions. The price point and quality is what made me give them a try and so far so good. Hopefully it will be the same with the skimmer. Although my sump for my main tank is not complete yet I know I will be washing a ton of filter socks between the two tanks. The frag has two and the main will have three so that's 5 a week. I ordered 20 to start off with.

I also received a partial shipment of my ball values from U.S. Plastics. The 1-1/2" true union are huge. One arrived missing the blue tab on the handle and I gave them call regarding the missing part. Customer service was very easy to deal with. Hopefully my 1" ball values will be off back order soon. This is holding up plumbing progress for the frag tank and water station.

I needed some more 1/4" Quick Connect bulkheads and my order I placed about a week ago arrived as well. I will be installing these on my two ATO's and my new sump for the main display.


Skimmer
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4297/36007455566_6119c3ae87_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/WRRC4q)IMG_9608 (https://flic.kr/p/WRRC4q) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

Filter Socks
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4301/36007456106_dc068938a8_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/WRRCdJ)IMG_9615 (https://flic.kr/p/WRRCdJ) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

Cepex True Union Ball Valves
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4321/36007455826_d1e87c4737_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/WRRC8U)IMG_9609 (https://flic.kr/p/WRRC8U) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

1/4" Quick Connect Bulkheads
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4327/35659818760_bca57dd91a_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/Wk8TKo)IMG_9610 (https://flic.kr/p/Wk8TKo) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

[Tom39]

You have been busy Henry. Everything looks great. If you keep going at this rate you will be up and running in no time at all.

Sent from my SM-G930V using Tapatalk

[nightOwl]

You have been busy Henry. Everything looks great. If you keep going at this rate you will be up and running in no time at all.

Sent from my SM-G930V using Tapatalk

Thanks Tom! I am just trying to beat Larry in getting set up...lol. This weekend is going to be busy but I am going to try to get some of the rock in a bleach bath so it can soak for a few weeks.

[McPuff]

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4327/35659818760_bca57dd91a_c.jpg

This is exactly what I need for a small project I'm finishing today. Hope I can find it at HD. :0)

[nightOwl]

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4327/35659818760_bca57dd91a_c.jpg

This is exactly what I need for a small project I'm finishing today. Hope I can find it at HD. :0)

McPuff - Hopefully you can find them! I had to order online since I did not want to pay a premium for one. What project are you working on? I may buy some more today as I saw some cool dosing containers I may try my luck with...lol.

[JonCubb]

Very nice. One of these days, I swear, I'll have a fish room of my own.

[McPuff]

McPuff - Hopefully you can find them! I had to order online since I did not want to pay a premium for one. What project are you working on? I may buy some more today as I saw some cool dosing containers I may try my luck with...lol.

No luck at HD nor Ace. Oh well. I made due with a couple rubber gaskets. Just had to get some 1/4" pex through 1/4" acrylic as a feed line for an in-line tank.

[crimsonblue]

How does this differ from a standard bathroom vent fan? I am in the pre-pre-pre-planning stages of a future house (also in MD) and have been stuck with the different ways people have been suggesting on properly venting fish rooms.

https://c1.staticflickr.com/4/3828/32628582673_2b53387c88_b.jpg

[crimsonblue]

^ Aren't you also worried about bringing in humid air into the fish room during the summer time?

[nightOwl]

Very nice. One of these days, I swear, I'll have a fish room of my own.

JonCubb - It is a great thing to have. My fish room is small but I hope it will turn out like my original vision. So far so good.

No luck at HD nor Ace. Oh well. I made due with a couple rubber gaskets. Just had to get some 1/4" pex through 1/4" acrylic as a feed line for an in-line tank.

McPuff - That's great news! Sounds like my kinda DIY project!

How does this differ from a standard bathroom vent fan? I am in the pre-pre-pre-planning stages of a future house (also in MD) and have been stuck with the different ways people have been suggesting on properly venting fish rooms.

https://c1.staticflickr.com/4/3828/32628582673_2b53387c88_b.jpg

^ Aren't you also worried about bringing in humid air into the fish room during the summer time?


crimsonblue - I have the ERV connected to a dehumidistat so it does not function like a normal install. Fish rooms are notoriously humid and the main thing I am trying to do is exchange fresh air from outside to inside the house. During the summer in our area it's gonna be a bit tricky since we are in a zone where the humidity is an issue in the summer months. From the Fall though the Spring I should see some benefits. I think with the bathroom fan they are mainly for exhaust so me its a little different than a standard bathroom fan. If things get out of hand I have the ability to unplug the fan and I also have a dehumidifier I brought when I decided to build a fish room. Let me know if you need more info.

[Chrisrush]

Coming along great. I'm definitely following? Why build the stand in 2 pieces? Door / height restrictions?


Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk

[schudini]

Wow, amazing work. I'm in MD too, remodeling a basement & planning on a shared fish/laundry room.

With a tank that big, what is your fish stock list?

Following the thread.

Sent from my SM-N900V using Tapatalk

[MarylandTang]

Dying for more pics. Get everything finished this past weekend? =)

[nightOwl]

Coming along great. I'm definitely following? Why build the stand in 2 pieces? Door / height restrictions?

Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk

Chrisrush - I had a door restriction and window restriction. My egress window would have been cutting it close. With the leveling feet I would have barely made it as I did not take into account the amount of space they would have added. There was no way I could have gotten it in through the door frame of the fish room and I did not want to redo drywall :(. I may still run into issues since my skimmer is a bit taller than the two part stand design I had. Cleaning the skimmer is going to be a slight issue but I will make it work.



Wow, amazing work. I'm in MD too, remodeling a basement & planning on a shared fish/laundry room.

With a tank that big, what is your fish stock list?

Following the thread.

Sent from my SM-N900V using Tapatalk


schudini - Let me know what part of MD you are in. Have you started decisions on your stand? I had a local place make mine and pretty happy with the results. When planning make sure you plan for your stand height including leveling feet in regards to doorways...lol. I have not really thought about fish list much but I know it will be filled with wrasses :). I think once I get some water I will get motivated to make the list...lol.

Dying for more pics. Get everything finished this past weekend? =)

MarylandTang - Sorry no real progress the last few weeks. I was waiting on some parts to arrive and have been crazy busy with work. I will do a picture update maybe late tonight or sometime this weekend. I keep forgetting to bring my camera upstairs after putzing around in the basement..

[nightOwl]

It's been a while since I have provided an update but things are slowly coming along. Work has been keeping me pretty busy and the "Honey Do" list has been growing during the summer months.

07/20/2017 - Polishing Wheel Arrived
I had been in talks with Derek about my concerns on cleaning the glass of the tank when water was finally in the tank. Since this is my first time paying this much for a tank I was extremely nervous. Derek sent me a polishing kit that should help get out any minor scratches that are sure to come eventually. He shipped it out himself and notified me to be on the look out for the package. This will be a much needed item along the way with keeping the glass scratch free. Fingers crossed! It looks like a cloth polishing wheel and some type of powder stuff.

Miracles Polishing Kit
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4418/35937762303_bcd27bdfa1_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/WKGqFr)IMG_9622 (https://flic.kr/p/WKGqFr) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr


07/26/2017 - More Plumbing Supplies Arrived
I ordered my ball values at the same time but the 1" values were on back-order. They finally arrived and as with the 1-1/2" values they are so easy to turn right out the box. This may actually be one of the cases where you get what you pay for...lol. I am hoping they stay this easy to operate. Now when I am in the Big Box Stores and walk past the values I giggle to myself.

Cepex 1" Values
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4384/36700021456_b7f3c53ce4_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/XV4cLC)IMG_9617 (https://flic.kr/p/XV4cLC) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

07/29/2017 - Picked up Sumps and Auto Top Offs
As I mentioned before I had called around to a few places to get quotes on a custom sump and two ATO containers. I finally choose Pure Reef Systems. The sump and ATO's are made from PVC and boy are they heavy. They are located in Midland, VA so I told Brendan I would drive to pick up the items verses having them shipped. I was trying to keep the cost down as much as possible. He had sent over a few pictures during the build process so I was really anticipating seeing them in person. Craftsmanship was top notch! The Friday before picking up he sent a picture of the water test.


Custom Sump Final Specs - 52.5" x 22" x 15-3/8" white PVC sump with 3/8" acrylic windows
3 - 1 1/2" PVC pipe hole returns
4 - 4" filter socks
2 - cord management holes in equipment area
4 - 1/4" dosing bulkhead holes in equipment area
1 - Triple heater holder
1 - probe holders (4)
1 - adjustable water level from 6"-12"
1 - triple bubble stop
1 - water level marks
1 - 1 1/2" pipe hole in pump area
2 - cord management slots in pump area
Poly carbonate covers
1 - 1" pipe hole in refug area
2 - 1/4" bulkhead holes in refug area



Frag Tank ATO Specs - 20"x 18" x 15-1/4" white PVC sump with 3/8" acrylic windows
Gallon marks
1 - 1/2" CPVC pipe hole
2 - 1/4" bulkheads holes
6"x6" access hole
Poly carbonate cover

Main Tank ATO Specs - 30"x 15" x 15-3/8" white PVC sump with 3/8" acrylic windows
Gallon marks
1 - 1/2" CPVC pipe hole
2 - 1/4" bulkheads holes
6"x6" access hole
Poly carbonate cover

ATOs and Sump
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4406/36759964065_eb072b1997_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/Y1mqBT)SumpAndAto (https://flic.kr/p/Y1mqBT) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

Water ATO For Frag Tank
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4427/36700021766_042a63228d_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/XV4cRY)IMG_9628 (https://flic.kr/p/XV4cRY) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4350/35937762633_d34cce2715_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/WKGqM8)IMG_9630 (https://flic.kr/p/WKGqM8) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

ATO in Place Under Frag Tank
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4438/36700022146_b1d4d90fee_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/XV4cYw)IMG_9631 (https://flic.kr/p/XV4cYw) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr


07/31/2017 - Under Main Tank
I choose 3/4" PVC for the base for the bottom of my stand. No issues with rot ever :). The problem was after I did all the measurements to make the board fit under the stand I could not fit the whole board in at one time. I had to cut it down the middle in order to make it fit. Welding joints on the stand also played a small part in throwing off my measurements. While it may not be my prettiest work I think it will do for now. I have not decided if I will make a retaining wall or not but once I get all the items dry-fitted and in place with the sump and ATO I will figure something out. I used some PVC transition glue to create some supports to prevent the two parts from not lining up properly and sag between the joint. I let it dry overnight and the next day set up a jig so I cold make one long seam and then drop the other side in place. I routed the edges flush with the stand where I could and it did not turn out too bad.


Left Side in Place
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4391/35937762973_f4738c25f1_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/WKGqSZ)IMG_9632 (https://flic.kr/p/WKGqSZ) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

Supports Clamped in Place Before Drying Overnight
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4363/35937763423_7985c1b9f6_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/WKGr1K)IMG_9637 (https://flic.kr/p/WKGr1K) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

[nightOwl]

07/31/2017 - Continued
I have been using the Simplicity brand of pumps on my temp set up for over year or so and the one issue I did have was quickly resolved with great customer care. I love that it is easy to get a person on phone very quickly and each time I have spoke to someone there I have been impressed. For my main tank I chose the 3200 and for the frag the same model (2100) I have on my existing temp set up.

3200
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4402/35937763173_afc21fd358_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/WKGqWr)IMG_9634 (https://flic.kr/p/WKGqWr) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

2100
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4411/36700022516_c716a54110_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/XV4d5U)IMG_9636 (https://flic.kr/p/XV4d5U) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr



08/02/2017 - Finally Assembled Skimmer
First impressions out of the box I can feel the skimmer is not using thin acrylic for the walls and it looks amazing. Assembly instructions were easy to follow and that is always a plus. I have spoken to about 5 or more real end users of this skimmer and all have been impressed. The price point and quality makes this skimmer a great deal. Time will tell if its up the job on my tank though. From a few people they said it needed to be submerged in closer to 10" of water so my adjustable baffles in my sump will work out perfectly. In my old sump I had to build a stand for the skimmer. In this setup I will just adjust the water level until its dialed in.

Simplicity 800 DC
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4350/35937763493_0314439a3c_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/WKGr2X)IMG_9639 (https://flic.kr/p/WKGr2X) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

08/03/2017 - Finished the New Cabinet and Added a Shelf Above Sink
My second cabinet turned out just as great as my first try. Sliding acrylic doors and adjustable shelves with a laminate bottom. During the process of construction I kept finding myself needing a place put my soap and test tubes when doing water testing. The shelf is now used to hold my booster pump for my RODI unit.

Cabinet and Sink
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4437/35937759973_314f09b537_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/WKGpZg)IMG_9642 (https://flic.kr/p/WKGpZg) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

08/19/2017 -Plumbing for Water Storage Tanks - WIP
After using the water storage tank for quick water changes I finally got around to doing some actual plumbing of the tank. I may end up changing the position of the ball valves so that they don't accidentally get hit when people visit the fish room but this is the start. I have used a ton of unions and ball valves to make maintenance easier. I am going to be using my old Reeflo Dart/Snapper Hybrid for the mixing and being able to get fresh and salt water. The pump is below both containers so it will always be primed there is gonna be some mixing of the fresh and salt water but I am cool with that. This is a work in progress. Eventually I will finish the plumbing once my flexible pvc arrives.

Freshwater Tank
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4361/36350787960_d0817cac5b_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/XochPs)IMG_9648 (https://flic.kr/p/XochPs) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

Saltwater Mixer Dart/Snapper Hybrid
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4428/35937763933_31b725b05c_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/WKGrax)IMG_9649 (https://flic.kr/p/WKGrax) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

08/20/2017 -Electrical Extensions - WIP
Since my apex will be mounted on the wall between the frag tank and main display I wanted to have a way to try to keep my wires somewhat organized. In my last set up this worked well for me. Each individual outlet is will be connected to an outlet on the apex. Essentially I have neat looking extension cord system...lol. I broke the tabs off each outlet and ran individual 14 gauge wire through a 1" conduit. There are currently 4 outlets on the left side of the tank and 8 on the right. I may need to add more later once things start getting plugged in. All the individual wires will terminate in the gray box and I will use individual cords to finish the run.

Extended Outlets Left
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4359/36350789970_90ae287bce_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/Xociq7)IMG_9652 (https://flic.kr/p/Xociq7) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

Extended Outlets Right
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4343/36350790340_b2a91538f5_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/Xociwu)IMG_9654 (https://flic.kr/p/Xociwu) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

[nightOwl]

I switched memory cards in my camera so my dates are out of order...

08/19/2017 - Added Shelf to Hold LED Ballasts
I made a modification to my light rail to hold the ballasts but due to weight concerns I decided to make a shelf where they could sit. I added a third support to my light rail but even with that the weight just felt too heavy. My next step is to figure out some type of cord management system for the cords when I push the light rail to the left.


Shelf
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4332/36892199482_21aa89cd32_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/Yd3aAS)IMG_9650 (https://flic.kr/p/Yd3aAS) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4363/36229124514_c5ab079fc1_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/XcrJvQ)IMG_9669 (https://flic.kr/p/XcrJvQ) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr


08/21/2017 - Bleaching Rock - WIP
BRS Investigates is one of my favorite YouTube series to watch. I have used acid baths for my rock in the past but noticed the rocks seemed to be eaten away more that I would have liked. After spending so much for my beloved Pukani I was a little leery of an acid bath this go around. After watching the episode on different ways to cure rock I am definitely done with acid baths on Pukani. The roock costs too much and losing 10% or more in weight is throwing money away. The bleach method showed great promise so that is the method I selected. I went down to Wally World and picked up about 6 gallons of bleach. I put my rock in the two 30 gallon trash cans and and started to fill with water. After it was about half way I put on my safety goggles and gloves and poured in the bleach the foaming action began almost immediately and when filled there was a dirty bubble bath for the rock.

Trashcan 1
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4344/36875616316_2996f26efb_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/Ybzb1d)IMG_9658 (https://flic.kr/p/Ybzb1d) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

Trashcan 2
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4407/36875616566_a80f966c6e_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/Ybzb5w)IMG_9659 (https://flic.kr/p/Ybzb5w) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr


08/23/2017 - Main Sump In Place - WIP
Due to making the stand in two parts and having a big skimmer collection cup maintenance on my skimmer is going to be a pain. The skimmer can only be removed from the back side of the sump and only when the ATO is not in the way. Right now the ATO is just sitting on the floor until I figure out all the plumbing under the tank. Once again I used unions to help break up sections over 3-4 feet in length. This will also allow some flexibility if I want to swap out sections with modifications. Everything is dry fit right now. I am working on final placement of my drain lines. I need to find some scraps of acrylic to place under the unions above each hole in the sump. Once all the plumbing is done I will slide the ATO in place behind the sump. The ATO has the gallon markers on the end so I can see how much water is in there at any given time.

Main Sump
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4374/36875617006_8dc1603aeb_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/Ybzbd7)IMG_9663 (https://flic.kr/p/Ybzbd7) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

Sump Side View
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4362/36667209660_84833f26df_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/XSa2Y1)IMG_9665 (https://flic.kr/p/XSa2Y1) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

ATO
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4337/36875617436_5626a13803_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/Ybzbkw)IMG_9667 (https://flic.kr/p/Ybzbkw) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr



09/03/2017 - Saltwater Mixing Helper Prototype - WIP
Because I want to have my salt water mixing done fast and thoroughly I started thinking about how when I pour salt in the tank it will sink to the bottom. When I mix in my buckets I just stir the salt with my hand for a bit then let the pump run for a few hours. Since my arms are not long enough to reach the bottom and I do not want a pump in the storage tank I started thinking about how I could make sure the salt that was on the bottom of the container would get mixed. My protoype turned out a bit too big for the bottom of the tank but I think I am on to something and how it will work. To get into the tank I had to cut in half which means the final product may end up using an union for the two parts. In the picture with the pipe on the octagon you can see my first attempt without using a pattern. With my pattern it goes pretty quickly and I have a system down where I can make a bend and secure it in place in about 4-5 mins or so. Next steps will be to drill holes on the outside and inside of the mixer.

Template 1
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4349/36875617856_d1ccdb8e9f_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/YbzbsL)IMG_9673 (https://flic.kr/p/YbzbsL) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

Octagon Template
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4346/36875618066_b738c38bfa_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/Ybzbwo)IMG_9674 (https://flic.kr/p/Ybzbwo) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

Prototype
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4343/37063825425_3352f5342f_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/YtcN1R)IMG_9676 (https://flic.kr/p/YtcN1R) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

09/04/2017 - Walk-up Bar Cabinets - WIP
I found out that the same type of cabinets in the kitchen upstairs was going to be much more than I expected. The wife and I shuffled down to Lowe's and looked at some ready to pick-up cabinets. I will go with a dark color like upstairs but will save a nice amount and wifey can see I am making progress as she has implemented a Thanksgiving deadline for the main tank to be up and running.


09/05/2017 - Drywall Sanding -WIP
I spent some time sanding the walls in the area outside the fish room and noticed there are few places I still need to get squared away. The ceiling is a pain in the butt and I still need to address a few places around the lights, outlets, and the sprinklers. I hope to have this wrapped up in the next week and the walls primed by the end of next week. Once those are primed I can finish the framing of the fish tank and be one step closer to no more construction projects.


09/06/2017 - Neutralized Chlorine in Trashcan 1 & 2
I dumped about 3 cap-fulls in each trash can but when I went to look for an ammonia test kit I could not find it. I may run out tomorrow and get one after visiting the gym. If all the chlorine is removed I will change the water tomorrow let it sit overnight then test again. If there are no traces after that I will start the cycling process next week.


With that we are now all caught up...

[SPotter]

Now that's an update!!!!!! Can't wait to see water in the tank!!!!

[nightOwl]

Now that's an update!!!!!! Can't wait to see water in the tank!!!!

Steve - I'm trying to get on track and get things moving...lol.

[nightOwl]

09/16/2017 - Outside of Fish Room Finally Primed
It is amazing what priming a room does! I still have a ways to go but now I can get back to focusing on the fish room. The only thing I really need to do if fix 3 spots on the ceiling.

From This
https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3907/32628584093_69a48675b4_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/RHh2hH)IMG_0250-4 (https://flic.kr/p/RHh2hH) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3827/33402154176_a1abb40852_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/STCLHW)IMG_0249-4 (https://flic.kr/p/STCLHW) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

To This
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4386/37248767891_667bda568e_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/YKxEY4)IMG_9678 (https://flic.kr/p/YKxEY4) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr


09/17/2017 - Painted the Room
With the first coat of paint on it is really starting to look like a room instead of a work in progress. I am very happy with the way things turned out. Unless you are looking very closely you can not see an seams on the wall. The ceiling still has the three spots to fix before I paint the ceiling but the walls are done for now.

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4429/37248768561_0cb97f3b53_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/YKxFaB)IMG_9679 (https://flic.kr/p/YKxFaB) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4366/37248768751_e3a10f8486_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/YKxFdT)IMG_9680 (https://flic.kr/p/YKxFdT) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr


09/19/2017 - Installed doors and Tank Trim
I managed to find some time to install both doors, the trim around the face of the tank and the trim around the french door leading the main room area. I put on a few outlet covers and the vent covers and now the only thing left in this area is the floor, the walk up bar, and paint the new door.


https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4332/37248769191_34d93d0aaf_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/YKxFmt)IMG_9683 (https://flic.kr/p/YKxFmt) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4334/37248769801_102d4ea039_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/YKxFwZ)IMG_9689 (https://flic.kr/p/YKxFwZ) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4342/37248770051_f20f47b2ba_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/YKxFBi)IMG_9691 (https://flic.kr/p/YKxFBi) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4432/37248768151_ee163e2977_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/YKxF3x)IMG_9690 (https://flic.kr/p/YKxF3x) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

[nightOwl]

09/20/2017 - Plumbed Water Storage Tanks
I finished plumbing the tanks together. There are a lot of values but basically I can get water from either tank by gravity. The Reefflo Hybrid is set up so I can pull water from the fresh water tank and push it to mixing tank. Once the water is pushed to the mixing tank I turn another value and I can circulate the water in the mixing tank. I tried it out and mixed up 40 gallons of water. I still need to test that there are not leaks at the uni-seal. The pressure of the water is less than I thought it would be but the water mixes all the same.

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4513/37248769371_879831701b_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/YKxFpz)IMG_9687 (https://flic.kr/p/YKxFpz) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

09/21/2017 - Backsplash in Frag Tank Area- WIP
After thinking looking at my temp set up and salt spray that is bound to happen when moving things around in the frag tank I decided I needed a backsplash. I ran out and got some Mastic from HD and went to the garage to get my trowels from a previous project. This is also a way to get some practice for the backsplash in my walk-up bar area. I plan to finish this in the next few days.

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4426/37248769621_2c23e783fe_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/YKxFtT)IMG_9688 (https://flic.kr/p/YKxFtT) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

[James404]

Great build so far. The fish room is really coming along, looking forward to seeing it progress.

[jmsilhy]

Man this is awesome!
Following along.

Out of curiosity, where do you get your PVC sheets?

[Tuffyyyyy]

Awesome, awesome, AWESOME! Thank you for all of the pictures.

[nightOwl]

Great build so far. The fish room is really coming along, looking forward to seeing it progress.

James404 - Thanks and welcome aboard.

Man this is awesome!
Following along.


Out of curiosity, where do you get your PVC sheets?


jmsilhy - Thanks and welcome aboard. I had to special order the 3/4 sheets from 84 Lumber. No place around me seems to carry the 3/4 in stock :(. I called a bunch of places and finally found 84 Lumber.

Awesome, awesome, AWESOME! Thank you for all of the pictures.

Tuffyyyyy - Thanks and welcome aboard...more to come :).

[nightOwl]

09/26/2017 - Backsplash Finished
The backsplash is finished and sealed and the frag tank is back in place. I also started working on the control panel for the frag tank. I thought I had some extra cords but could not find them. I ordered some new cords to connect the modules and they should arrive by next Wed. My goal it to do a leak test by then. I think it turned out pretty good for what I am going to be doing...LOL. I am still a little up in the air on the edge. I cut tile to put on the ends with my trusty tile cutter but I am not sure if I will add them or not. I have not decided if it looks like it is too much space on the edge or not. You can see in the second picture below.


Backsplash
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4460/37378295022_5e469d4ccc_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/YWZwSs)IMG_9692 (https://flic.kr/p/YWZwSs) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

Backsplash
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4403/23556941108_b3481e7154_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/BTDtT3)IMG_9694 (https://flic.kr/p/BTDtT3) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

Backsplash Up Close
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4480/23556941698_047a8969da_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/BTDu4d)IMG_9695 (https://flic.kr/p/BTDu4d) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

09/28/2017 - Frag Tank Updates - WIP
I am getting very close to being able to put water in the frag tank. While working on my frag rack for the frag tank I convinced myself I needed a mini lathe. I chose to make the legs for the frag rack from 1/2 CPVC. It seemed like a great idea at the time until I started making legs. I had to use my Dremel and do each one by hand. After three or four of them I had the feel of it and was able to do them pretty quickly. I removed about 1/4" of the material so that i could fit into the egg crate and support the frags. I like the way it turned out and may end up painting it but for now its done.

Plumbing has also been completed. The only thing left are small things like adding thread sealant on the loc-line nozzles and figuring out the height of the water in overflow section. I am trying to use BeanAnimal style so we will see how it works out. There is not as much height under the stand as I thought so there are two quick 90 degree turns which from my research could be a problem. We will see :).

Legs
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4377/23556941968_eea8abeb7c_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/BTDu8S)IMG_9699 (https://flic.kr/p/BTDu8S) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

Frag Rack
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4474/37409566071_f2de061827_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/YZKNEt)IMG_9700 (https://flic.kr/p/YZKNEt) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

[nightOwl]

09/29/2017 - Cycling of Rock - WIP
My cheap salt came in and I hauled some water from the basement up to the garage. In hind site I should have cured the live rock in the basement. Carrying water from the basement to the garage sucks! I mixed up 50 gallons of salt water in the salt water mixing station. With all the bends in the plumbing the water pressure is not a great as I thought it would be. As a result of the low pressure I may scrap the internal octagon I had planned on using. It may be something I add later so we will see. It's been so long since I cured rock from scratch I am not looking forward to it at all. I threw some flake food in each container and will probably add some shrimp later to get the process really going. I did not add a heater yet since the garage stays pretty hot. I put the trash can lids on each trashcan and crossed my fingers.

10/03/2017 - Frag Tank - Wiring
I tired to calculate the number of outlets I will need for my frag tank and it started to increase more than I initially thought. I may have to scale it down to be more basic.

Since I know cord lengths were not going to reach all the way to the control panel I added 8 outlets under the tank. All the outlet ends cords terminate into a box I built and then the plug ends are ran through a hole in the top of the table. I used foam to "plug" the hole so the cords don't move. In the picture to the left of the gray box you can see the 1-1/2" PVC pipe I used to run the cords through. I used a coupling on the top side and so far it seems like this may work out well. I caulked the PVC pipe in place in case there is a water spill so no water would drain directly down to the wires. I now have 8 individual controlled outlets that I can just plug into the corresponding Apex outlet

Under Frag Tank Wiring
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4512/37508920882_7d105b9f66_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/Z9x2os)IMG_9702 (https://flic.kr/p/Z9x2os) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

10/04/2017 - Frag Tank - Bean Animal Plumbing - WIP
I finally finished the plumbing and added some RO/DI water to the frag tank. This was my first leak test for the frag tank as well so I am happy to report there are not leaks. I have to do some more fine tuning but I think I should be able to make the overflow pretty silent. The tricky part is since it's internal the water from the weirs make a crashing sound and trying to adjust the pipes to the right height is harder than I had thought. All in all it looks like the pump I am using is too powerful as the majority of the sound is coming from the water entering the sump. I will probably have to to t-off my pump and feed the water back in the sump in order to reduce the amount of water being pushed into the display or get a smaller pump. For now I am going to see if I can come up with a way to make the top quieter and then work on a solution

Top Down
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4463/36830200054_e0c64f9355_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/Y7ypkd)IMG_9709 (https://flic.kr/p/Y7ypkd) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

Overflow Box
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4509/37508921192_f86a3114b0_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/Z9x2tN)IMG_9711 (https://flic.kr/p/Z9x2tN) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr



10/06/2017 - Main Control Tank Panel - WIP
Today I managed to create the box I will use for the main control panel. I marked out in painters tape where the panel will go on the wall. Currently its 34" W x 28" H. I forgot my camera in the basement while I was working in the garage so I will post a picture on my next update of what the frame will look like. It will open from the top or side or maybe I will use a french cleat like the frag tank. I am still trying to figure that part out :(.


Main Tank Control Panel
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4451/37540058651_822370db9a_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/ZchByx)IMG_9707 (https://flic.kr/p/ZchByx) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

[sdweller]

This looks like an awesome project !
Sea Dwellers

[Flatrack01]

Awesome build! Where are you in MD? I'm in Millersville and have a 315 gallon system with fish room. Noooo where near as nice as yours :)

[nightOwl]

This looks like an awesome project !
Sea Dwellers

Thanks sdweller!

Awesome build! Where are you in MD? I'm in Millersville and have a 315 gallon system with fish room. Noooo where near as nice as yours :)

Flatrack01 - Thanks. I am in Capitol Heights MD. I am still adjusting to not having 3 great places to buy corals and fish within 30 mins of me from living in VA. Did you end up doing a build thread? Mine is small compared to some others but it works for me...LOL. I think we all want more space!

[Flatrack01]

Thanks sdweller!



Flatrack01 - Thanks. I am in Capitol Heights MD. I am still adjusting to not having 3 great places to buy corals and fish within 30 mins of me from living in VA. Did you end up doing a build thread? Mine is small compared to some others but it works for me...LOL. I think we all want more space!

Haha yeah I hear ya. I did not do a build thread strictly out of laziness, but I have always considered doing one after the fact because I'm constantly tweaking things.

You should check out Fintastic Aquariums in Frederick (yep, its outside of 30 minutes lol). Its a small store but they have really nice stuff there and are great to work with.

[nightOwl]

Haha yeah I hear ya. I did not do a build thread strictly out of laziness, but I have always considered doing one after the fact because I'm constantly tweaking things.

You should check out Fintastic Aquariums in Frederick (yep, its outside of 30 minutes lol). Its a small store but they have really nice stuff there and are great to work with.

Flatrack01 - I may add them to my field trip list. I looked at their website and the prices are pretty good!

10/10/2017 - Curing Rock - WIP
I finally got around to checking my ammonia levels in the my trash cans for my rock that is curing. The ammonia kit said 8 but I think its higher...LOL. My garage stinks so I know something is happening. The cycle is officially underway. I may need to do a small water change to help move the process along. I also ended up buying some bacteria to add once I move it in the main display. When I looked back at my pictures of my first aquascape I realized I wanted another large rock piece or two. ON my latest BRS order I asked for large Pukani. The customer service rep I spoke to was great and told me he would go to the back and make sure I had a large piece or two. When they arrived I was very impressed. They are large with a great variety of nooks and crannies. One thing I will have to do is to bleach this rock for sure. There is some dead material on the rock that is not fully dry so even though it is dry rock there are still some things decaying. The rock also has that smell of rock that has been out of water for a while but not completely dry.

Ammonia Test
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4497/37425757870_129eaa1a86_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/Ze2bMVq)IMG_9714 (https://flic.kr/p/Z2bMVq) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

Bacteria
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4471/37635000706_1c2565b5b6_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/ZkFdww)IMG_9729 (https://flic.kr/p/ZkFdww) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

Rock 1
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4459/37425758250_2e5e424755_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/Z2bN2Y)IMG_9731 (https://flic.kr/p/Z2bN2Y) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

Rock2
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4508/37635001006_1dc89500fb_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/ZkFdBG)IMG_9732 (https://flic.kr/p/ZkFdBG) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

10/11/2017 -Control Panel -WIP
I made some updates to my control panel. I added a center brace and some corner braces. I will find the studs in the wall and then mark them so I can attach the unit after I prime it. On the left side I plan to cut two areas that I can feed the cords in. My cords have a variety of lengths. I have six fairly short, four really long, and two medium length cords. I will have a total of 12 individually controlled outlets.

Control Panel
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4513/37634999836_8748d15013_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/ZkFdgw)IMG_9716 (https://flic.kr/p/ZkFdgw) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

12 Outlet Junction
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4493/37684001301_39c5012db3_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/Zq1mGn)IMG_9717 (https://flic.kr/p/Zq1mGn) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr


10/13/2017 - RODI Upgrades
Maryland water sucks! My TDS meter is running around 240 -260 on the incoming side. I noticed no mater how many times I was changing the filters my TDS on the out line was still ranging around 12 or higher and what ever they are treating the water with killed most of my corals in my temp set up. It looks like a few may hang in there but for the most part they are on the decline. The filters below on the current system are from only 2 weeks of use.I am not sure if it is related to the chemicals the water company is using or if the DI resin is old. Either way I decide to add a second DI resin chamber. Turning my 5 stage into a 6 stage RODI unit. I thought my existing bracket could hold two chambers but the holes would not line up for two units. Temporarily I am just going to have then on the back table. I removed the old membranes and as I suspected they were swollen. When I talked to the water company they mentioned they had flushed the system in the last few weeks due to some type of algae and sediment bloom. I found a place on Ebay that sold DOW membranes for a pretty good price. So I decided to change out the membranes as well. I essentially replaced all the internals of my unit and added an additional chamber. The unit ran so much better when I flushed it for the first time.

Current System
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4453/37684002241_5427aa0b65_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/Zq1mYz)IMG_9730 (https://flic.kr/p/Zq1mYz) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

New Chamber
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4480/37635000176_9e26e0cd47_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/ZkFdno)IMG_9724 (https://flic.kr/p/ZkFdno) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

New Membranes
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4513/37053342423_632e269fc8_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/Ysh4Mr)IMG_9739 (https://flic.kr/p/Ysh4Mr) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

[nightOwl]

Continued

Inside the box
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4481/37465792670_048e1163df_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/Z5HYSA)IMG_9740 (https://flic.kr/p/Z5HYSA) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr


BRS 6 Stage Kit
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4495/37635000506_7d021d7b86_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/ZkFdt5)IMG_9728 (https://flic.kr/p/ZkFdt5) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

Temp Set Up
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4457/37053342773_1d562f6006_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/Ysh4Tt)IMG_9742 (https://flic.kr/p/Ysh4Tt) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

[nightOwl]

Main Tank Plans
So with the main tank I have a few things I need to get finished before my rock cures. I am hoping that the two new pieces of rock will be adding will allow me to make another structure or make the structure a little higher or just give me some other options.

I invested in three Triton water tests after talking to the water company and not feeling like the water quality in my area will be resolved for a while. According to them there are a few factors that may be causing my issue. Ranging from water main breaks, flushing the system due to algae blooms or sediment bloom. They also mentioned because our neighborhood is fairly new it could be a plumbing issue. My plan is too send off one test when the tank is officially up and running then one every 2 months.

I also ordered some Epoxy Resin for my planned platform for my rock structure to sit on. From previous tanks rock that sits in the sand becomes a detritus playground. the platform will be made from egg crate and foam then covered in sand and epoxy.

Water Test
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4447/37684001721_edcaf17bbc_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/Zq1mPB)IMG_9726 (https://flic.kr/p/Zq1mPB) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

Planned Aquascape
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4285/35440916610_0bd5c8aed8_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/VZMXLo)IMG_9542 (https://flic.kr/p/VZMXLo) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

[MarylandTang]

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4513/37634999836_8748d15013_c.jpg

This picture is making me lose my balance! :spin1:

Are the tape marks or the wood pieces level?

[nightOwl]

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4513/37634999836_8748d15013_c.jpg

This picture is making me lose my balance! :spin1:

Are the tape marks or the wood pieces level?

MarylandTang - LOL the tape marks are level. I had it hanging on the edge of the outlet cover while I figured out how far my short cords would make it...lol.

[wowkingjames]

Awesome set up so for will follow.....

[russ49merc]

Amazing build

[nightOwl]

Wow you went all out

Techhnyne - I figured this is the last house for a while so figured I better make it count.

Awesome set up so for will follow.....

wowkingjames - Thanks for tagging along!

Amazing build

russ49merc - Thanks for the kind words.

[eonflux123]

This tank looks amazing!!! I have a question about the display! are you going to paint/cover the back of the tank so you do not see the fish room? Or is your intention to see through to the fish room? Overall this is amazing again LoL!

[nightOwl]

This tank looks amazing!!! I have a question about the display! are you going to paint/cover the back of the tank so you do not see the fish room? Or is your intention to see through to the fish room? Overall this is amazing again LoL!

eonflux123 - The back of the tank is also starfire so I do not plan on painting it. I figure when I am in the fish room I can look at the corals too :). On my last set up my drainage was on the back side and it was painted. The only time I could look at the tank was from the front and side. One of the cool things about having people over is showing the fish room and now they can see the corals and fish from three sides. Another great thing about it being able to view into the fish room is my wife can see I am not ignoring her and actually busy in "my" fish room...lol.

[nightOwl]

I have been pretty busy with other stuff besides the tank so not a lot of progress has been made. A few small things are underway or done so here is the list


Created a cord management track for main tank lights (probably will change this)
Both containers of cycling rock have zero ammonia
Nitrite is climbing in both containers
Nitrate is well underway as well in both containers
As with all Pukani rock phosphates are starting to present themselves (once the nitrite is zero I will start removing the phosphates)
Control board the main tank is almost done
Plumbing finished on the frag tank ( I have some issues with the herbie overflow)
Cycling of the frag tank is underway



10/17/2017
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4462/38126166361_fbc757fbf2_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2165yXT)IMG_9754 (https://flic.kr/p/2165yXT) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

10/18/2017
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4454/38094404142_e93e9813c5_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/213gMaq)IMG_9755 (https://flic.kr/p/213gMaq) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

10/18/2017
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4444/38126167911_4504210825_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2165zqB)IMG_9760 (https://flic.kr/p/2165zqB) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

[eonflux123]

eonflux123 - The back of the tank is also starfire so I do not plan on painting it. I figure when I am in the fish room I can look at the corals too :). On my last set up my drainage was on the back side and it was painted. The only time I could look at the tank was from the front and side. One of the cool things about having people over is showing the fish room and now they can see the corals and fish from three sides. Another great thing about it being able to view into the fish room is my wife can see I am not ignoring her and actually busy in "my" fish room...lol.

Very cool! Im one of those OCD fish people that likes plumbing tanks, but not looking at it! Your build is so fun and loving all of it!

Also I may have missed it in all of the posts, but are you running only the return for circulation? or are you using powerbeads or closed loop?

[SurfCastinRI]

Subscribed, look forward to following along.

[nightOwl]

Very cool! Im one of those OCD fish people that likes plumbing tanks, but not looking at it! Your build is so fun and loving all of it!

Also I may have missed it in all of the posts, but are you running only the return for circulation? or are you using powerbeads or closed loop?

eonflux123 - I am the opposite of you I hate plumbing...I was working on a bit of plumbing on the main tank today along with my platform idea. I plan on using some pumps...for flow inside the tank. I have on hand three MP40s. I am an SPS guy so there will be tons of flow in the tank. Hopefully I can finish up plumbing in the next day or two. I have to figure out my plan for a manifold and where it will be located.

Subscribed, look forward to following along.

SurfCastinRI - Welcome aboard.

[nightOwl]

General Updates

10/26/2017 - Expandable/Dynamic Manifold
While trying to solve an flow issue on the frag tank I decided to make a manifold to bleed off some of the water before it entered the tank. Long story short the pump is just too strong for the frag tank...that or my plumbing sucks...(that can't be the case...LOL). I am still having an issue with the overflow so I am going to to reread the Herbie thread again and see if I can tweak anything. Since I am not sure how robust the frag tank will be I wanted a way to expand the manifold as I needed. I came up with the idea that each manifold section should be its own unit and with that I can increase or decrease the number of manifolds units as needed. The proof of concept worked and I will also be using it on my main tank.

Two Unit
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4523/24344536258_4d83212101_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/D6f7tL)Dynamic Manifold (https://flic.kr/p/D6f7tL) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

Three Unit
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4449/38141071756_3488014e15_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/217oXPs)Dynamic Manifold (https://flic.kr/p/217oXPs) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr




11/02/2017 - Control Panel For Main Tank - WIP
By dumb luck I managed to make my hinged panel not hit the side of the tank. Because some of my cords were shorted than expected I moved the panel over a little bit. During design I thought I would have the panel swing open but after some thought decided to use hinges at the top since I am not sure how many Apex modules I will add and how much weight it will be. Rather than side mount and deal with sag I chose top mount. I am waiting for some hydraulic/gas hinges. Once they get here I will be able to not worry about it falling on my head...lol. If you notice the frag tank is cloudy as the cycle is well under way.

Control Panel
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4552/24344536978_0cefe823d6_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/D6f7Gb)Control Panel (https://flic.kr/p/D6f7Gb) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr



11/02/2017 - Rock Platform - WIP
I have mentioned this a few times but my goal with the main rock structure is for it not to sit deep in the sand and become a detritus trap. My plan is to make a false sand bed platform. I plan on covering the the platform with epoxy and sand. The height of my real sand bed will be under 3 inches and my platform is roughly 2-1/4 inches right now with the egg crate on top. I added the foam under the underside of the platform to help fill in some gaps. I am hoping the foam does not make it float too much and the weight of the rock will hold it down. Before adding the rock I plan to silicone the platform to the bottom glass then fill the tank with sand.


Platform
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4583/24344537158_9995dc4dce_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/D6f7Kh)Rock Platform (https://flic.kr/p/D6f7Kh) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

Epoxy
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4515/37486472224_8160062fe5_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/Z7xYbC)Epoxy (https://flic.kr/p/Z7xYbC) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

Platform with Legs
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4497/24344537488_12bbb29739_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/D6f7QY)Platform (https://flic.kr/p/D6f7QY) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr





11/05/2017 - Under Tank Light - "The Blinder" - WIP
I was doing some plumbing today and while under the tank realized I will need some extra light so since I hate plumbing I "accidentally" got sidetracked. About two weeks ago or so I was tinkering with my soldiering iron and decided I would need a light eventually under the tank. Today I created a little prototype enclosure for the what I had nicknamed the "Blinder". For anyone that has ever looked into the sun by accident when you look away even with your eyes closed you see "one" bright white spot. When I was testing out the "Blinder" when I first plugged it up there was a delay so I looked at the lights less than 1.5 feet away to see if it was wired properly and they popped on. Imagine 14 - 3W LEDs on full power that close to your eyes. For a about 45 seconds I could not see anything but bright white! I laid in the floor thinking my retinas were burned and my wife would come home and find me in the floor blind. After about a minute I was still seeing bright spots but I could tell I was not blind. It may sound funny now but I was really thinking all my sight was gone a few weeks ago...lol.

The "Blinder"
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4532/24344536618_12fb831213_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/D6f7zY)Light Protoype (https://flic.kr/p/D6f7zY) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

[eonflux123]

Awesome ideas for under tank lighting! I did that same thing with my old lights too, total blindness... Any updates?

Also how'd the rock work foundation turn out!? I've always wanted something like this but wasn't that creative!

[Linkfalcon]

Look good if u need a hand I’m in nova


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[Shown_nuff]

Hey... I am back on here after a while. If you ever need some help let me know. I will be glad to come and help.

[nightOwl]

eonflux123 - Sorry I have been busy lately so I have not really made and progress with the tank. I am so behind. My target date of making Thanksgiving failed miserably! My family (20+) was happy to see all the progress at Thanksgiving with the room but seemed mystified that there were no fish or water in the main tank. My niece was like " Uncle what is the purpose of the empty tank with water in it and no pretty fish?" non hobby people do not understand...lol. I told here the frag tank will have frags in it after I cycle the tank...lol. To which she said " Your bicycle is in the garage and I am not sure how it will fit in there!". I just smiled and laughed and her face was like I am serious...lol.

My rock foundation is not turning out how I would have liked it too and the epoxy I brought was really expensive so I am going to have to make the best of it. My design and impatience got the best of me. The blinder is in the garage under some other projects I am working on.

Awesome ideas for under tank lighting! I did that same thing with my old lights too, total blindness... Any updates?

Also how'd the rock work foundation turn out!? I've always wanted something like this but wasn't that creative!


Linkfalcon - Thanks for the offer of help.

Look good if u need a hand I’m in nova


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk


Shown_nuff - Welcome back. Thanks for the offer to help as well.

Hey... I am back on here after a while. If you ever need some help let me know. I will be glad to come and help.


I will try to get around to updating this week. I have been really slacking as this time of the year is filled with family gatherings and the Honey-Do list seems to go non stop. I have been working on tank stuff indirectly. I have been building cabinets for my walk up bar. I need to run some tests on the rock that has been in the trashcans. I will at least do that this week. I might even finish or start over on my rock base. I also need to order some components for the frag tank like a new skimmer and some more Apex modules...I'm so behind :(.

[nightOwl]

General Updates

12/05/2017 - Failed Rock Stand
Well not too much to update really. After looking closely at my rock stand I think I am going to start over. It did not meet my creative standards. It was more error than trial...lol. It took a little bit of practice to get use to how the sand and epoxy would need to be mixed. Some spots are shiny and some are OK but the coverage on the sides is using too much epoxy with the approach I used.

Inconsistent Coverage
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4577/38883624461_2a1bccaba4_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/22f1JSi)IMG_9813 (https://flic.kr/p/22f1JSi) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

Inconsistent Coverage
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4535/38883624631_93ef470058_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/22f1JVe)IMG_9821 (https://flic.kr/p/22f1JVe) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

Inconsistent Coverage
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4566/38880938681_e071a03c23_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/22eLYtK)IMG_9823 (https://flic.kr/p/22eLYtK) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr




12/05/2017 - Brown Film in Salt Water Container
I was using the cheap IO salt for cycling the rock and my frag tank and making batches in my new salt water station. I had forgotten that IO had the brown film issue. I am not sure if its the way I am mixing the water or if its the container but I will get to the bottom of it. I think it may be that I am using a heater in the container or mixing for days at a time.

Brown Film Floating
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4550/38880938161_f70e2def9c_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/22eLYjM)IMG_9818 (https://flic.kr/p/22eLYjM) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

Film on the Sides
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4522/38880938401_8642793485_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/22eLYoV)IMG_9819 (https://flic.kr/p/22eLYoV) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr


12/05/2017 - Cycling of Rock and Frag Tank Updates
So the rock in the garage I think is pretty much done. I have not be changing the water or anything on a regular basis. I did some water tests and here are the parameters
Nitrite - 0 ppm
Phosphate - .30 ppm
Ammonia - 0 ppm
Nitrate - .05 ppm

I added a Two Little Fishes Phosband 150 reactor to one of the containers and will check tomorrow and see if it has removed any phosphate. Normally it does a good job of removing phosphates fast. Next week I will do a big water change throw in a half of shrimp in each container and let it go through the process again to help build up the bacteria colonies.

The frag tank I am pretty sure is cycled as well. When I perform water changes in my temp frag tank I have been throwing any little critters I find in the filter sock into the new frag tank. This week I noticed that a tiny brittle star fish and some amphipods were still alive. A good sign that I need to get into a regular routine again. I added a temp Bubble Magnus skimmer to the tank and it has been pulling out some grey stuff. I suspect its related to the products I used to cycle the tank.

[Rjvb87]

Can you please tell me where all your stuff came from for your “blinder light”. I love yours and would love to make one for under my 200 gallon tank

Thanks, and your build is INSANE

[DesertReefT4r]

Looking good, great build here. I will be following along. I had the same issue with IO and RC salt after the new labels and formula change happened a while back. Did not use it after that.

[nightOwl]

Rjvb87 - Thanks for the kind words. I am so behind but hopefully will get back on track. I am person that loves to tinker and occasional fall into the deep hole of E.b.a.y. Can I say that? I will pm the info on each item but basically its three parts you have to by.

The individual LEDs
The Base Plate (mine holds 14) - I also have one that does 7
The Ballast


You will have to solder the LED's to the board and I found a good set of fine tips help along with a good soldering iron. You will also need to an old end of cord.

Can you please tell me where all your stuff came from for your “blinder light”. I love yours and would love to make one for under my 200 gallon tank

Thanks, and your build is INSANE


DesertReefT4r - Thanks for the kind words. I am coming along slowly :(. Glad to have you aboard. I am done with it as soon as I run out of it. I use to use Reef Crystals and did not have any issues but then again like I said I have never mixed up 60 gallons in one pop. Hopefully my new Fritz salt will not have the same issue once the main is up and running.

Looking good, great build here. I will be following along. I had the same issue with IO and RC salt after the new labels and formula change happened a while back. Did not use it after that.

[nightOwl]

General Updates
12/07/2017 - Main Tank Updates

I have made some prototypes for supporting the main tank return lines. I may make some adjustments once I have water actually running in the main tank based on any vibrations. They were pretty easy to make too. I used my contour gauge to get a profile and then some of my never ending supply of PVC scrap deck boards. The end result turned out pretty good. I also finished some of the plumbing from the return pump. I had been waiting for some more Cepex 1" ball values (they seem to stay on back order) to arrive and I am finally getting back to doing some plumbing.

Since I plan on having a various wrasses in the main tank I went ahead and ordered some netting for keeping the wrasses from jumping out. I will be making a few removable covers that will be supported by some acrylic lips I plan on building that will attach to the lip of euro-brace. My netting came in so this is one more project in the queue.

Once I finally get water in the tank I will be using a combination of different approaches to help cycle the tank faster. My goal will be to introduce a variety of bacteria into the tank and then the strongest strands will prevail. I will use Seachem Stability, Micro Bacteria 7, and my latest purchase my old faithful a bag of live sand.

Pipe Supports
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4546/38926979531_53ec2f5aab_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/22iQWPv)IMG_9835 (https://flic.kr/p/22iQWPv) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

Contour Tool
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4533/38891324602_1b9783a5e7_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/22fGcRm)IMG_9837 (https://flic.kr/p/22fGcRm) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

Pipe Supports in Action
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4550/38926979821_7a6cf4e5bc_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/22iQWUv)IMG_9838 (https://flic.kr/p/22iQWUv) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

Netting
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4544/38926980491_93321b392e_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/22iQX74)IMG_9846 (https://flic.kr/p/22iQX74) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

Live Sand
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4635/38891325542_e4f2874a8d_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/22fGd8y)IMG_9848 (https://flic.kr/p/22fGd8y) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr


12/08/2017 - Base Cabinet Updates - WIP
I have to work on the spacing but this is how the base cabinets for the walk-up will look. I still need to work on the drawer fronts and the doors but I am very happy the way things are turning out. A few things I am seeing is the floor is super un-level (I knew this) and my walls are not square..lol. Hopefully I will be able to "fix" this when the counter is installed. I still have to work on my wall cabinets but I have been thinking about having doors that have frosted or smoke glass wall cabinet doors. So far my adventure into cabinet making is very fun. I has allowed me to by several new tools (new table saw, new router and router table), various new clamps, a pin nailer, and various router bits.

24" Base Cabinet, 30" Sink Base Cabinet, and 18" Base Cabinet
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4691/25045203068_407eb529bc_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/Eaadj1)IMG_9825 (https://flic.kr/p/Eaadj1) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

Drawer on 24" Base Cabinet
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4641/25045203528_c8c38e4f2d_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/EaadrW)IMG_9826 (https://flic.kr/p/EaadrW) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

Drawer on 18" Base Cabinet
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4534/27140067659_95611ba593_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/HmgWz2)IMG_9827 (https://flic.kr/p/HmgWz2) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

Testing the Alignment of 24" Base Cabinet and 30" Base Cabinet
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4542/25045204788_39be8bfd48_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/EaadPE)IMG_9828 (https://flic.kr/p/EaadPE) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

18" Base Cabinet
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4551/25045205138_401c4b8d48_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/EaadVG)IMG_9829 (https://flic.kr/p/EaadVG) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr


12/09/2017 - Cycling of Rock and Frag Tank Updates
The Phosband is really doing the trick. The pump I was using to run the Two Little Fishes reactor died so I had to replace it. I think the the levels should be lower but I will check in a day or so now that I have replaced the pump. I noticed weird sound the other day but paid not attention to it. My guess is old pump has not been working for for a few days. Sunday I will throw in the shrimp and let it go a week and see where things are. The latest levels in trashcan 1 is listed below:

Nitrite - 0 ppm
Phosphate - .08 ppm
Ammonia - 0 ppm
Nitrate - .02 ppm

[Wrangy]

Any updates man?? I'm dying for some updates on your absolutely amazing build!!

[SPotter]

Fellow reefers.....I post this today with some troubling news and ask for your help. Henry aka NightOwl, has lost his way and is thinking about shutting this build down before he finishes it! He made the fatal mistake of thinking about what he has spent on the build and how much he thinks it will cost to finish this build. Henry sold me my first corals when I got back into the hobby back in 2010 and ultimately it is his fault that I upgraded my tank to a larger tank in 2011. We all need to show him support and make him realize what a fatal mistake this will be and how much he will regret shutting this build down before he even gets it finished!!!!

[paulmartin]

Fellow reefers.....I post this today with some troubling news and ask for your help. Henry aka NightOwl, has lost his way and is thinking about shutting this build down before he finishes it! He made the fatal mistake of thinking about what he has spent on the build and how much he thinks it will cost to finish this build. Henry sold me my first corals when I got back into the hobby back in 2010 and ultimately it is his fault that I upgraded my tank to a larger tank in 2011. We all need to show him support and make him realize what a fatal mistake this will be and how much he will regret shutting this build down before he even gets it finished!!!!

Oh no! I really hope he can get back on track, I have just read the whole thread and was in awe of the whole build and the time and workmanship he has put in so far.
Really hope he finds his way again!
Best wishes from England.

[gioNVA]

Oh man. Let's get this going Henry. I have a whole bunch of frags just waiting for you.

[DesertReefT4r]

Rjvb87 -DesertReefT4r - Thanks for the kind words. I am coming along slowly :(. Glad to have you aboard. I am done with it as soon as I run out of it. I use to use Reef Crystals and did not have any issues but then again like I said I have never mixed up 60 gallons in one pop. Hopefully my new Fritz salt will not have the same issue once the main is up and running.

Use either HW Marine Mix or Reef or TMPR. You will thank me later, best salt mixes for sure.

[nightOwl]

Any updates man?? I'm dying for some updates on your absolutely amazing build!!

Wrangy - Updates will be coming today if not tomorrow there is a lot to catch up on!

Fellow reefers.....I post this today with some troubling news and ask for your help. Henry aka NightOwl, has lost his way and is thinking about shutting this build down before he finishes it! He made the fatal mistake of thinking about what he has spent on the build and how much he thinks it will cost to finish this build. Henry sold me my first corals when I got back into the hobby back in 2010 and ultimately it is his fault that I upgraded my tank to a larger tank in 2011. We all need to show him support and make him realize what a fatal mistake this will be and how much he will regret shutting this build down before he even gets it finished!!!!

Steve - My snitch friend...thank you for using the "nuclear option". I have seen the error in my ways...lol.

Oh no! I really hope he can get back on track, I have just read the whole thread and was in awe of the whole build and the time and workmanship he has put in so far.
Really hope he finds his way again!
Best wishes from England.

paulmartin - I'm back on track with a greater focus than ever. Trying to get all the small details finished as I went alone was very tiring.

Oh man. Let's get this going Henry. I have a whole bunch of frags just waiting for you.

Francis - I will be taking you up on your offer :)

Use either HW Marine Mix or Reef or TMPR. You will thank me later, best salt mixes for sure.

DesertReefT4r - I had purchased a large amount of Fritz salt. I may have to give your suggestions a try once I use up the Fritz.

Updates to come but the short story is I am back for good!

[nightOwl]

So now it's time to get everyone up to speed on what's been going on. First off Steve (SPotter) is a snitch but a great friend :). Secondly I am back in the hobby for good after a few talks, emails, and texts, calls from quite a fellow hobbyist. I would to thank everyone for the encouragement and support. November and December are busy months for me and it was hard to focus on the tank like I wanted to. We also had a solar system installed in December so I was getting tired of spending money. I have tried to quit and sell the tank twice since then but this hobby is sorta like the mafia at times…easy to get in and hard to get out. Also fellow reefers are bullies and almost like drug dealers. They hide in the shadows and offer free or discounted frags and before you know it your hooked…lol. So with that I am back and more focused than ever.

Below is a timeline to get everyone up to date one where we are since 12/09/2017. Not much happened after 12/09/2017 up until Jan. I basically became a cabinet builder in my spare time. We also had solar installed and vacationed in St Lucia for our 10 year anniversary. Even though I was not working on the tank I kept my making entries in my planner.

01/08/2018 - Main Display Updates
The process was slow an it took a while to fully fill the tank. It took me 8 days on and off to fill the tank and the sump in order to get water circulating in the tank. In the second picture you can see the frag tank was up and running with my HOB skimmer. After the display was filled I learned I had a small leak on one of the drains that was later resolved by tightening the bulkhead.

Let the Water Flow
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4784/38978584990_5afd0dd165_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/22oprjN)IMG_1172 (https://flic.kr/p/22oprjN) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

Almost There
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4784/38978585490_18cc0d381c_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/22oprtq)IMG_1177 (https://flic.kr/p/22oprtq) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

01/16/2018 - Cabinets Installed
My cabinet project was almost complete. I still needed to finish the cabinet doors but because of cheap router bit I spent a whole Saturday trying to make the doors with out success. This was resolved by buying a Freud Router Bit! The white piece of drywall is my fridge place holder.

Installed Wall Cabinets and Base Cabinets in Place
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4771/40788699271_527732c22d_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/259mKeH)IMG_1180 (https://flic.kr/p/259mKeH) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

01/18/2018 - Wrasse Screen Holders
Wrasses will be the star of my tank once things are up and running. In order to keep some of the more expensive and timid wrasses a screen top is a must. Over the years I have learned the hard way that they are jumpers and very good at it. With the euro-brace tank this presents a small problem for the screen top. After some thought I came up with my own supports. They are adjustable via a nylon screw to secure them in place. After my first prototype I built a jig to help me make more faster. It's very similar to the bracket I built for my Sea Swirl except I did not bend the plastic. I welded it together with weld-on #4 and tapped the holes with a combination drill and tap bit.

Parts
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4783/40788699471_2700bcd78f_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/259mKia)IMG_1183 (https://flic.kr/p/259mKia) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

Jig
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4774/38978586020_f2327ce1f2_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/22oprCy)IMG_1188 (https://flic.kr/p/22oprCy) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

Assembly
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4776/40788699891_3659e3397e_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/259mKqp)IMG_1190 (https://flic.kr/p/259mKqp) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

Final Product
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4771/40746572142_e5bab47da5_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/255CQiU)IMG_1194 (https://flic.kr/p/255CQiU) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

[nightOwl]

Continued

01/19/2018 - DIY VorTech Holders
The VorTech’s come with some velcro to place the controller in a certain spot. Due to the way I have things laid out my VorTech pumps are on the end of the tank and based on where I have the outlets a small issue arouse that I may fix later. In the mean time I did not want to stick them to wall so when I put them in place temporarily I needed a holder for the power brick and controllers.

Before
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4776/40788701341_5aa5a5369e_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/259mKRp)IMG_1196 (https://flic.kr/p/259mKRp) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

Power Adapter Holder
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4786/40788698711_96eae23802_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/259mK54)IMG_1197 (https://flic.kr/p/259mK54) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

Power Adapter Holder In Place
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4775/39893946855_c93305c964_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/23MhUvV)IMG_1198 (https://flic.kr/p/23MhUvV) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

Controller Holder
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4781/40788701701_3e0770726f_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/259mKXB)IMG_1249 (https://flic.kr/p/259mKXB) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

Both in Place
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4785/40746573302_1aa0d3f3e6_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/255CQDU)IMG_1251 (https://flic.kr/p/255CQDU) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

[nightOwl]

Continued

01/24/2018 - Frag Tank Updates
Frag tank by this point was completely cycled.


01/26/2018 - Flooded Basement
My temp set-up flooded before I left for New Orleans. I cleaned up the best I could but this was when I decided I was done with the hobby.


01/26/2018 - New Items Arrived
I placed a small order for a new skimmer for the frag tank and also ordered a few items for the main tank. My buddy Richard gave me some old MP40’s so I ordered some parts so I could use one on the frag tank while I decided what pumps I would buy for it. I ended up ordering
2 - EB8’s
2 - EB4’s
2 - MP40QD controllers
2 - MP40QD wet sides
1 - Simplicity 120 skimmer
1 - WXM
1 - Temp probe

Items for Main Display
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4785/39893947255_55d64af8f2_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/23MhUCP)IMG_1252 (https://flic.kr/p/23MhUCP) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

MP40 Drivers and Wet Sides
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4788/39893947595_ca44f4f15c_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/23MhUJF)IMG_1264 (https://flic.kr/p/23MhUJF) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr


New Skimmer
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4778/40746573732_0612e56da6_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/255CQMj)IMG_1258 (https://flic.kr/p/255CQMj) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr


02/01/2018 -Frag Tank Updates[INDENT]
I placed an order with Richard for a clean up crew but was unable to pick it up on the day it arrived. I placed the items in the tank and most of the cerith snails died but the other critters seemed to make it. I also added the new skimmer on the tank and ran into an issue right away. The outlet from the collection cup does not allow for a piece of hose to be added to drain. I also brought over my corals from the frag tank. I reached out to Simplicity and I will keep you guys posted on I hear back from them. I think they may have to make some changes in the production run to resolve the issue.

The frags were in pretty bad shape in my temp set up since I had not been taking care of the tank. Below is a sample of what they looked like after being transferred to the new frag tank.

Frags
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4782/40791630791_ee07ebc7b5_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/259BLFa)IMG_1319 (https://flic.kr/p/259BLFa) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

SPS
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4785/39893948345_2e72d97621_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/23MhUXB)IMG_1651 (https://flic.kr/p/23MhUXB) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

Chalice
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4781/40788703141_c50a95ac19_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/259mLor)IMG_1679 (https://flic.kr/p/259mLor) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr


02/03/2018 -Assembled Cabinet Doors
I assembled my cabinet doors and they ended up coming out very well. For the wall cabinets I choose to go with glass instead of a wood panel. I also finished my drawer fronts for the base cabinets.

From This
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4778/40749667852_abe8a41ec4_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/255UGyd)20180203_094628 (https://flic.kr/p/255UGyd) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

To This :) - Base Cabinet Doors
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4774/40749668152_cd2697d86f_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/255UGDo)Message_1517677300371 (https://flic.kr/p/255UGDo) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

Initial Side Profile
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4780/25920390457_1a75151c5d_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/FuuM2K)20180206_144043 (https://flic.kr/p/FuuM2K) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

[nightOwl]

Continued

02/11/2018 -I Quit the Hobby
I decided I would quit the hobby and try to sell the main display. I completely drained the tank and started to entertain offers on the tank. One of my neighbors made an offer to buy the main tank from me. I also had a guy stop by but his wife would not let him buy the whole set-up. The main reason I was quitting was due to LED’s. I think they are public enemy number one and hated them. They pretty much killed all my corals I had transferred over and they were not even running at full power in less than 10 days. Most corals were fully bleached and I even threw some away. Later I would regret throwing them away. My new LEDs created a new hot coral called the WLR (White Lab Rabbit)…white flesh pink eyes…lol.

White Lab Rabbit
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4776/39893950265_473248106a_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/23MhVwH)IMG_1707 (https://flic.kr/p/23MhVwH) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

Recessed Flesh
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4773/40788703311_0b9e2effd7_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/259mLrn)IMG_1686 (https://flic.kr/p/259mLrn) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr





02/17/2018 -Cabinet Door Updates
I ordered a new router bit to give my doors a little more character. The door profile now matches the profile that are on my kitchen cabinets upstairs.

Initial Edge
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4780/25920390457_1a75151c5d_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/FuuM2K)20180206_144043 (https://flic.kr/p/FuuM2K) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

Decorative Edge for Doors
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4775/40788702281_231271339d_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/259mL8B)20180217_105823[1] (https://flic.kr/p/259mL8B) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

Drawer Fronts and Base Cabinet Door
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4785/40788702431_732e4aaae5_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/259mLbc)20180217_124931 (https://flic.kr/p/259mLbc) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

Panel Up Close
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4778/40749667962_4b0d702d01_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/255UGA7)20180206_144150 (https://flic.kr/p/255UGA7) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

Base Doors and Drawer Fronts Installed
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4773/39893948005_ce902694f9_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/23MhURK)20180219_154411 (https://flic.kr/p/23MhURK) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

[nightOwl]

Continued

02/27/2018 - Main Display Updates
After coming back from a short stay in the Dominican Republic and not being able to snorkel I realized one of the reasons I love this hobby is because of the peace and tranquillity it offers. I started to add water to the tank and realized quitting was a dumb idea in the first place.


02/28/2018 - Cabinet Updates
I added cabinet knobs to the doors and drawer front and started trying to get quotes for how much glass would cost to install in the wall cabinet doors.

Almost Done
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4785/25922818697_b86a464481_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/FuHdRX)IMG_1738 (https://flic.kr/p/FuHdRX) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

Rain vs Frost
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4778/25922819357_164733c812_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/FuHe4k)IMG_1760 (https://flic.kr/p/FuHe4k) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

[nightOwl]

Continued

03/01/2018 - Frag Tank Updates
After realizing you can’t just turn LEDs for 14 hours without modifying the program to ramp up and ramp down I am starting to get use to LEDs. The corals are starting to adjust somewhat two and I am noticing a few have started to regain some color. I am still learning how to take good pictures under the LEDs but figured I would share a little of the progress I am seeing. Also no tank would be complete without some nuisance algae. The last pictures are whats growing on the returns. Also for some reason I am having a mold issue in the sump. I am not sure how this is possible but it growing.

Frag Tank
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4788/40084556664_b7ff2c5e3a_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2458QaW)IMG_1756 (https://flic.kr/p/2458QaW) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

Top Down SPS
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4775/39893948605_a0e26b927b_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/23MhV36)IMG_1673 (https://flic.kr/p/23MhV36) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

Top Down Zoas
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4775/40788703051_373b126c8a_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/259mLmT)IMG_1675 (https://flic.kr/p/259mLmT) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

Top Down ?
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4784/39893949025_aea1e2dea8_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/23MhVak)IMG_1676 (https://flic.kr/p/23MhVak) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

Top Down Monti
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4775/38978590340_34485089fa_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/22opsV3)IMG_1708 (https://flic.kr/p/22opsV3) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

Top down Digi
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4788/40788699081_b805519340_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/259mKbr)IMG_1712 (https://flic.kr/p/259mKbr) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

Top Down Chalice - Notice Missing Flesh
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4778/38978590850_29e12c631d_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/22opt4Q)IMG_1716 (https://flic.kr/p/22opt4Q) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

Top Down Various
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4781/38978591220_9ea047371e_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/22optbd)IMG_1720 (https://flic.kr/p/22optbd) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

Side Profile
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4771/38978585260_4bd0f1d502_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/22oprps)IMG_1684 (https://flic.kr/p/22oprps) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

[nightOwl]

Continued




Top Down SPS
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4780/38978590000_815ed98a95_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/22opsPb)IMG_1706 (https://flic.kr/p/22opsPb) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

Algae
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4781/38978591500_530fe06f82_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/22optg3)IMG_1730 (https://flic.kr/p/22optg3) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

Algae
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4795/39893952645_025647a094_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/23MhWeK)IMG_1733 (https://flic.kr/p/23MhWeK) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

Mold
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4785/38978591660_963263dc62_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/22optiN)IMG_1735 (https://flic.kr/p/22optiN) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

[nightOwl]

Continued


03/09/2018 - Main Display Updates
I started cycling the main tank. I added one bag of live sand, Seachem Stability, Brightwell Aquatics MicroBacter7, and Brightwell Aquatics Reef Biofuel Liquid. I figured this cocktail would get bacteria colonizing underway quickly.

Main Display
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4772/25922819107_a17e4ef2a8_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/FuHdZ2)IMG_1755 (https://flic.kr/p/FuHdZ2) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

[SPotter]

Great update Henry! I’m glad my bullying worked!!!! [emoji23][emoji23][emoji23][emoji23]

[Achilles Torben]

Check out out the temperature of the power adapter. They get to hot in the wooden box?



Greetings Torben


Gesendet von meinem SM-G930F mit Tapatalk

[nightOwl]

Great update Henry! I’m glad my bullying worked!!!! [emoji23][emoji23][emoji23][emoji23]

Steve - LOL I'm glad too. I have to get this show back on the road.

Check out out the temperature of the power adapter. They get to hot in the wooden box?



Greetings Torben


Gesendet von meinem SM-G930F mit Tapatalk

Achilles Torben - I will check this out later tonight. I may have to add some type of passive air flow or vents for the power bricks.

[nightOwl]

General Updates

03/15/2018 - Display Tank Updates
As mentioned earlier I started cycling the main tank. My ammonia levels are starting to rise so the cycle is well underway. I am still not seeing any Nitrite yet but the tank is putting off a very strong smell. I have been dosing Seachem Stability as directed and my two shrimps are breaking down pretty good. One is pretty much gone as it somehow keeps "swimming" to the VorTechs. Currently pieces are stuck to two of the three Vortechs. The VorTech pumps are much stronger than I thought. Even when I put the shrimp at the opposite end of the tank within minutes they "swim" back to the side of the tank the VorTechs are mounted on. The tank smell is pretty bad at this point but my Simplicity 540 skimmer is working well. The skimmer is dead silent and my only issue is it requires 10 inches plus of water. The the bubbles are so fine and the skimmate stinks! I am really loving this skimmer. Simplicity has a great price point and outstanding customer service. Hopefully the tank cycles fast. I am already starting to make my fish list and have been looking at frags the past few days.



03/15/2018 - Cycled Rock Updates
I have two bins of rock that have been cycling for a long time now. The bins are in the garage and as such have really been getting a lot of dust and the occasional wood chip in them. Both bins measure no Ammonia and Nitrite so they are cycled. I need to measure for Nitrate this weekend. The Phosphate of bin one is down to .05 as I have started dosing LC this week. This weekend I plan to do a full water change and see how much Phosphate leaches out. The second bin is really high. I have not dosed with LC and when I tested earlier this week it was .38 or something high like that. It is also the container that I found some wood chips and it had sawdust in it as well. I thought I had the lids tight on both containers but they have been getting dust as well as wood chips...lol. Bin 1 this week measured .05 for Phosphates and hopefully means I am getting closer to adding rock to the tank. It will be done in two phases but I am trying to make sure the phosphate levels are non detectable before adding to the main display.

[SPotter]

more pictures would make this more exciting!!!! :spin1::spin1::spin1::lol2:

[eonflux123]

Great to see you back my man!

[iced98lx]

Nice! Very exciting.

[nightOwl]

more pictures would make this more exciting!!!! :spin1::spin1::spin1::lol2:

Steve - I will try to make sure future updates have pictures…lol.

Great to see you back my man!

eonflux123 - Glad to be back.

Nice! Very exciting.

iced98lx - Thanks! Did they resolve your thread issue?


General Updates


03/18/2018 - ATO Updates
I made some modifications to the ATO for the main display. I added a cord slot to the lid area, installed a new 12V DC pump, and the bulk head for the top off water. For the bulkhead that will used for topping off with new RODI water I added a acrylic tube and two float switches. This will also eliminate the splashing sound when water is added. One float switch will let me know when the water in the reservoir is low and the other will notify me when the water level is getting high in the reservoir. The other bulkhead I used the acrylic tube to “hard wire” my pump. I ran a little test tonight and it is working as I expected. I know the little pump has great head pressure as I used it to empty the tank when I was trying to sell it. Finally I ran the line from my RODI unit along the wall to so that I can add water to the ATO reservoir directly from the unit since it will be hard to reach the reservoir where it is placed.

ATO Project
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4794/40849699982_e75f741fb5_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/25eKoC7)IMG_1763 (https://flic.kr/p/25eKoC7) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

Parts
https://farm1.staticflickr.com/822/40849702702_022197eaae_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/25eKpr1)IMG_1765 (https://flic.kr/p/25eKpr1) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

Cord Slot
https://farm1.staticflickr.com/790/40849703152_c504536d9c_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/25eKpyL)IMG_1768 (https://flic.kr/p/25eKpyL) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

12V DC Pump
https://farm1.staticflickr.com/786/40849703392_07dc171600_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/25eKpCU)IMG_1769 (https://flic.kr/p/25eKpCU) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

Hi and Low Sensors
https://farm1.staticflickr.com/815/40849703802_0f39a37b6a_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/25eKpKY)IMG_1772 (https://flic.kr/p/25eKpKY) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

[nightOwl]

Continued


Tubing Run
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4781/40849706822_9d8871ba2a_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/25eKqE3)IMG_1791 (https://flic.kr/p/25eKqE3) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

Tubing Run Over Door
https://farm1.staticflickr.com/792/39997892145_34d2748950_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/23WtDQ6)IMG_1792 (https://flic.kr/p/23WtDQ6) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr


Tubing Run Under Stand
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4794/40849707342_cae0384252_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/25eKqP1)IMG_1793 (https://flic.kr/p/25eKqP1) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr



03/18/2018 - Cycled Rock Updates
I performed a 100% water change on bin one on Sat 3/17. The Phosphate levels had been holding at .05 after my initial dosing of LC. The water looked pretty clear but once I started removing the rock it must have stirred up a lot of loose debris and the water became very murky. I am going to give the first bin a week or so and see what happens.

I updated my Two Little Fishes reactor to use some cotton coil to help when dosing the LC this week. Hopefully the cotton will help trap the precipitate that is created while dosing. If it does not work as expected I will just go back to using a filter sock.

After Removing Rock
https://farm1.staticflickr.com/783/39082503320_ca58e48839_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/22xA3C9)20180317_163443 (https://flic.kr/p/22xA3C9) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

Cotton Coil
https://farm1.staticflickr.com/801/40849704382_263df40b00_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/25eKpVY)IMG_1775 (https://flic.kr/p/25eKpVY) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

Two Little Fishes
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4795/40849704542_f6fb8f8ae4_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/25eKpYJ)IMG_1777 (https://flic.kr/p/25eKpYJ) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

After Dosing
https://farm1.staticflickr.com/793/39997890735_7a1b4a335a_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/23WtDpM)IMG_1781 (https://flic.kr/p/23WtDpM) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr





03/18/2018 - Main Tank Updates
The main display is still cycling. Ammonia levels are still rising but I have yet to detect any Nitrite. The swimming shrimp seem to have disappeared. I guess the VorTech’s have shredded the shrimp to small bits. I checked the filter socks for any parts but did not see any pieces.

I also added a black background for days when I do not want the fish room to be seen from the main viewing area. I used some pieces of black foam board and in combination with the black overflow area it is going to look like a continuous back background. So far It is made of two parts that fold up nicely. Once I figure out how I will keep it on the back of the tank I will post some updated pictures.

I emptied the skimmer collection cup tonight as well. This the second time I have emptied since I started cycling the display. The skimmate by far is the nastiest I have smelt. I think it may be related to using multiple cycling products.

Skimmer
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4785/40849702942_0060320fb5_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/25eKpv9)IMG_1782 (https://flic.kr/p/25eKpv9) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

Inside of Lid
https://farm1.staticflickr.com/802/40849705162_0a344d217a_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/25eKqaq)IMG_1783 (https://flic.kr/p/25eKqaq) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

Chunky Skimmate
https://farm1.staticflickr.com/806/39997891055_ee350320cf_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/23WtDvi)IMG_1784 (https://flic.kr/p/23WtDvi) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

[SPotter]

Keep it going Henry! The attention to detail is awesome!

[eonflux123]

How's it going Henry!?

[nightOwl]

Keep it going Henry! The attention to detail is awesome!

Thanks Steve.

How's it going Henry!?

eonflux123 - It's been coming along slowly. I have been plugging away.

General Updates
03/19/2018 - Frag Tank Updates
My cheap EBay pH probe finally died. I thought it would last a bit longer but this cheap crap did not last long at all. For weeks it was giving off bad readings finally when I checked I realized it was dead. I guess you cannot expect much for $6.85. I replaced it with a new Pinpoint pH probe. The LED lights are still proving to be very challenging for me and the corals are not adjusting well.

Pinpoint pH Probe
https://farm1.staticflickr.com/785/41488662132_d07c8bab97_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/26ddeNU)IMG_1802 (https://flic.kr/p/26ddeNU) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

03/24/2018- New Equipment
I like Simplicity products and as a result purchased a new Simplicity dosing container. The craftsmanship is amazing and the price is great too. Not too long after I placed my order I found out that they offered an accessory kit for it and since I have loads of float switches I added three to mine. I was thinking of building one of these but this price was too good to pass up.

I caught a good sale on two BioTek media reactors. I like the design but was not thrilled about the color. I ordered the red and black ones and plan to use them for carbon and GFO. They might even work as bio-pellet reactors.

Since the rock was still leaching phosphates and my tests were old I brought a new ultra low phosphorous tester. My goal was to get the phosphates in the single digits on the ultra low and then just hope for the best.

Dosing Container
https://farm1.staticflickr.com/877/41488660932_f53b4cc4da_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/26ddesd)IMG_1795 (https://flic.kr/p/26ddesd) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

Float Switch
https://farm1.staticflickr.com/835/41529423381_150d7cf691_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/26gP9H4)IMG_1933 (https://flic.kr/p/26gP9H4) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

New Media Reactors
https://farm1.staticflickr.com/893/41529424371_0cd10e524e_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/26gPa18)IMG_1801 (https://flic.kr/p/26gPa18) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

https://farm1.staticflickr.com/876/41488663452_16dd81534d_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/26ddfcE)IMG_1940 (https://flic.kr/p/26ddfcE) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

Ultra Low Phosphorus Tester
https://farm1.staticflickr.com/894/41488661962_dd5879d738_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/26ddeKY)IMG_1797 (https://flic.kr/p/26ddeKY) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

03/25/2018 -Main Tank Updates
I pulled the trigger and added some of the rock to the main display tank. I tested the phosphate levels before and they were 0.00 ppm over night and they were reading .05 ppm. I decided that I would wait a few more days and see how the tank reacted. I loaded up one of my new media reactors about 3/4 with GFO and hoped for the best.

First Batch of Rock
https://farm1.staticflickr.com/899/41529424591_3ff7d81704_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/26gPa4V)IMG_1822 (https://flic.kr/p/26gPa4V) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

https://farm1.staticflickr.com/841/41488662672_2d4555988f_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/26ddeYd)IMG_1913 (https://flic.kr/p/26ddeYd) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

03/25/2018 - Cabinet Updates
My local glass shop was able to cut my glass order and I installed the panes in the cabinet doors. I must say they look they really turned out nicely. I checked prices for granite and I am weighing the option of just adding a regular counter top from Lowes or Home Depot and be done with them. I picked up a bar sink so the sooner I get the counter top figured out the better.

Finished Cabinets
https://farm1.staticflickr.com/931/41529423171_bd97559b9a_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/26gP9Dr)IMG_1824 (https://flic.kr/p/26gP9Dr) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

https://farm1.staticflickr.com/825/26660266427_3d34561094_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/GBSQnZ)IMG_1825 (https://flic.kr/p/GBSQnZ) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

[nightOwl]

Continued

03/27/2018 - Cycled Rock Phosphate Updates
Pukani rock is pretty but this stuff leaches phosphates like no other. I have been doing 100% water changes every 4- 5 days or so and dosing with the LC. Once the readings read zero on my old tester I wait a few days and when it starts to rise a bit I do a 100% water change. The numbers were staying at zero for over a week and when I last tested with my new tester I was reading something like 8 which when converted was not bad at all. Phosphates also were in the main tank but very low. I order Cheato to help reduce the phosphate as I figured the rock would keep leaching for for a while in the display. I am down to only one bin of rock and the last few pieces are my really huge pieces. These were neglected while in the garage but now I have all the remaining rock in the fish room I can give it the proper attention. One thing with LC it works great but this stuff is rough on the equipment. I am using a two little fishes reactor stuffed with cotton and Seachem PhosGuard to catch the particulate and its really nasty. The cotton was bright white and after less than 10 days of use it is a dark grayish.

Phosban 150 Reactor
https://farm1.staticflickr.com/873/41488662922_69b8b4ff66_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/26ddf3w)IMG_1929 (https://flic.kr/p/26ddf3w) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr



04/03/2018 - Main Tank Updates
I did not have any algae cleaning magnets on hand that would handle 3/4 glass and after a little research I fond that Tunze had a magnet that would work for me. They arrived and the design is different from my mag floats but it gets the job done nicely. These magnets are strong and are not finger friendly. I ordered one for the display and the frag.

My Cheato I ordered form jtrasap arrived after some issues with the post office none on the shipping by him. It was shipped as promised but the mail man did not deliver all the mail on the route. Sometimes our mail comes as late as 7 or 8 PM EST. If they are running too late they just deliver it the next day. It just so happened they delivered it a day late and some had started to die off. The bag was packed though and I had an old Avast Marine media reactor laying around that I had to modify after it had cracked. I cut it down by about 2 inches or so and glued it back together with some Weld-on #16 and #4. I made a Cheato reactor added some to the refugium area and set it up to run 4 hours on 4 hours off. Before adding the Cheato reactor the phosphates in he tank were reading around .03 ppm. The BRS buld GFO was working but not as well as I had hoped. I added more rock and crossed my fingers.

Thinking long term on the potential phosphates from the pukani I also ordered some Phosphate Rx after watching some videos on reducing phosphates on You Tube. I ran across a video by melevsreef and I was sold. After seeing how the LC worked I wanted something I did not have to dilute and could dose without issues. GFO could get expensive over time and this seems like a cheaper solution in the long run. Hopefully one of these approaches will keep the phosphates under control.

I also got introduced to SPS AB+ lightening by Francis after complaining about my LED's issues. I set it up on the frag tank.

Tunze Magnets
https://farm1.staticflickr.com/820/41488661302_90e70b6b7b_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/26ddeyA)IMG_1920 (https://flic.kr/p/26ddeyA) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

Cheato Reactor
https://farm1.staticflickr.com/796/26660266737_1845a86dd0_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/GBSQtk)IMG_1921 (https://flic.kr/p/GBSQtk) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

Phosphate Rx
https://farm1.staticflickr.com/790/41488662762_380cd6c5d2_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/26ddeZL)IMG_1916 (https://flic.kr/p/26ddeZL) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr



04/08/2018 - Main Display Updates
I finally got around to making some changes to my sump like using my router to add a cord relief slot to the refugium area and modified my 1/4" bulkhead holes. To do this I drained the sump completely and made the modifications. I also added my miracle mud to the refugium chamber and some of the rock pieces that did not go in the main display. I also added the rest of the cycled rock to the tank. Before adding it I rinsed it off under running sink water. I figured any killed bacteria would quickly come back once it was back in the salt water. The miracle mud made the tank cloudy for a bit but it cleared up pretty quickly.


Miracle Mud Cloudiness
https://farm1.staticflickr.com/926/40636122315_b40533d6ce_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/24USKqx)IMG_1935 (https://flic.kr/p/24USKqx) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

https://farm1.staticflickr.com/804/41488661782_cfcd4c6b58_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/26ddeGS)IMG_1938 (https://flic.kr/p/26ddeGS) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

https://farm1.staticflickr.com/805/41529425901_35e201d399_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/26gPasv)IMG_1939 (https://flic.kr/p/26gPasv) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr





04/10/2018 - First Coral Order Arrived
This was one a great first order. I ordered from Adam at Battle Corals and I could not be more pleased about his service and quality of the frags. I ordered a battle box and this a great way to get some nice gems. So this is where the excitement ends I was a little off on my measurements for my dipping formula and between that and the new SPS AB+ lighting schedule most of the corals below I am hoping will make it. Since then I have adjusted the lighting and really bring the intensity down. I have now given my self the moniker "Coral Killer" :(. In a few weeks if any are left I will take some new pictures.

Rainbow Stylo
Donkey Kong - dead
Battle Corals Secale - loosing flesh
Leprechaun in Pergatory
Premoberry
Jared's Red Devil Naustra - dead
Snipers Blue Something or Other




04/13/2018 - Main Display Updates
Phosphates have been reading zero and holding. I need to take a new picture of the Cheato reactor. I guess there is phosphate in the water because the reactor is getting full. I also seeded the tank with some pods from Algae Barn and these pods really look like they may take off. I ordered a 10560 pod package with 32 oz of Ocean Magik. I have been throwing in a few critters from the clean up crew I got for the frag tank. So I think the dwarf cerith or nassarius snails have laid the eggs.



Pods
https://farm1.staticflickr.com/845/41529426261_81a3b172fc_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/26gPayH)IMG_1991 (https://flic.kr/p/26gPayH) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

Eggs
https://farm1.staticflickr.com/837/41488663692_66d15c37f9_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/26ddfgN)IMG_1993 (https://flic.kr/p/26ddfgN) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

[SPotter]

awesome update Henry!!!!!!! how many more pounds of rock do you have left to add?

[eonflux123]

Great update! Your detail in this makes it a great read! Phosphate was the bane of my existence with my old 75 gallon and I did a similar thing that you did with pukani! When I get enough income to get back into the hobby I'm doing a super long cure on my rocks before putting them int he tank! Your display is really sick looking! The depth is really interesting! What lights do you have? If the coral are not adjusting to the lights, I believe most manufacturers have an acclimation cycle for their systems.

[nightOwl]

awesome update Henry!!!!!!! how many more pounds of rock do you have left to add?

Steve - It's all in there! There was like one medium piece that I put in the refugium. My aquascape is actually backwards from when I first did my initial platform design. I traced the outline and accidentally inverted it. I will take some pictures from inside the fish room and from overhead. I can already tell the inside of the fish room is gonna be my favorite. I am hoping it will give the fish some cool places to swim.

[nightOwl]

Great update! Your detail in this makes it a great read! Phosphate was the bane of my existence with my old 75 gallon and I did a similar thing that you did with pukani! When I get enough income to get back into the hobby I'm doing a super long cure on my rocks before putting them int he tank! Your display is really sick looking! The depth is really interesting! What lights do you have? If the coral are not adjusting to the lights, I believe most manufacturers have an acclimation cycle for their systems.

eonflux123 - Thanks for the kind words. This is my second time with Pukani well third really. It was the reason I had issues with my old 180. The key is to be patient with the rock and LC is your new friend...lol. Treating with the LC and doing the 100% water changes allowed the phosphates to equalize in the water column. When they stayed a zero for a few days I did another 100% water change. I am running the Reefbreeders Photon V2 and LEDs are much brighter than they appear. I finally found my old par meter and realized the lights over the frag tank was putting out way too much par for how shallow the tank was without an adjustment period. The RBV2 do not have an acclimation cycle built in and its not like MH lights where you can just throw them in and they will be fine. I have now learned my lesson after killing off most of my Battle Corals. I made adjustments to the SPS AB+ light program and reduced everything in half. I still need to find an export of the program to see how they ramp up. Mine were set at 100% for UV, Blue, Royal Blue and 24% White, Green, and Red. I now have this at 50% and 12% respectively. But think I need to ramp up to that over the course of a hour or two set at max then ramp down. If the corals make it through I will place another other in the future but I have some more corals coming soon. This was just an expensive tough lesson to learn.

[nightOwl]

I can't get a good shot of the aquascape from above no matter what I do. Below are a few of the picture I tried to to capture. It's had to really get a sense of the the crevices from either side. But its basically going to be a cove area and an open swimming area for those that like to hang out in the open. I also added a picture of my one fish that is in the frag tank. I don't think he will be with me much longer. He does not swim very far anymore and looks like he is just trying to hold on. I have had him since 2004 or so...in fish years I guess he is pretty old. He has survived 3 tank crashes and 4 different females.

My One and Only Fish
https://farm1.staticflickr.com/869/39737220320_713a319c0e_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/23xrDbh)IMG_2045 (https://flic.kr/p/23xrDbh) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

From Inside
https://farm1.staticflickr.com/787/26677078967_9216293d11_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/GDn1an)IMG_2051 (https://flic.kr/p/GDn1an) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

Top Right
https://farm1.staticflickr.com/863/39737221940_cdb3579865_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/23xrDEd)IMG_2055 (https://flic.kr/p/23xrDEd) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

Top Left Side
https://farm1.staticflickr.com/795/27675704268_aa2d7d7c0a_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/JaBdEY)IMG_2057 (https://flic.kr/p/JaBdEY) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

Full Top Down
https://farm1.staticflickr.com/871/26677079187_e228ae313e_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/GDn1ea)20180418_154519_HDR (https://flic.kr/p/GDn1ea) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

Extra Rock
https://farm1.staticflickr.com/907/39737220540_e297c188bf_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/23xrDf5)IMG_2072 (https://flic.kr/p/23xrDf5) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

Cheato Growth
Left is 4/3 right is 04/18
https://farm1.staticflickr.com/939/39737499800_4c2a2fcd30_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/23xt5fU)CheatoGrowth (https://flic.kr/p/23xt5fU) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

[SPotter]

love the aquascape Henry!!!!! lets get some fish in there!!!!!

[nightOwl]

love the aquascape Henry!!!!! lets get some fish in there!!!!!

It's gonna be a while for the fish. I need to let he pods establish for a few weeks or so. I think I will be ordering a clean up crew soon. I have not run the the lights on the display since nothing is in there. The couple of snails and two hermit crabs will not be able to keep up with the algae once the lights are running.

This is how big my first harvest was....it filled the container.

https://farm1.staticflickr.com/819/40666727375_03a89b46a6_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/24XzBeZ)20180418_185640 (https://flic.kr/p/24XzBeZ) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

https://farm1.staticflickr.com/846/41559495421_c1aa560f20_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/26jth5v)20180418_185627 (https://flic.kr/p/26jth5v) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

[saf1]

Great job. Question if you will on your 1" sea swirls. I am also using a pair and wondering if you have anything on the end / output to direct water. Or are you just leaving it with the default elbow? That is how mine are currently set. I was thinking about adding a random flow generator from Vivid but their current solution would extend it from the sea swirl elbow too much for me.

Regarding the rock you are using, the dry Pukani. I ordered about 150lbs from them also and it is pretty interesting stuff. I didn't order the large sizes but at least one piece in each of the boxes I received easily exceeded 18" in size. My better half was teasing me asking if I accidently ordered landscape material for our front yard... My tank finished its cycle the end of February or first week of March. I only flipped the lights on this past weekend and transferred my 40 breeder over.

While I like the rock, and yours is also nice, I probably would never do it again. My routine was unbox, pressure wash, 24 hours in bleach, rinse, another 24 hours in bleach, rinse, 24 more hours in bleach, rinse, add lanthanum chloride, 24 hours, rinse, more lanthanum chloride, 24 hours, rinse, pressure wash, aquascape in tank, add ri/ro water, salt mix, extra heavy dose of dechlorinator to be safe, and rode it out for about a month before moving the tank or adding lights.

Again great setup - virtual High Five.

[nightOwl]

Great job. Question if you will on your 1" sea swirls. I am also using a pair and wondering if you have anything on the end / output to direct water. Or are you just leaving it with the default elbow? That is how mine are currently set. I was thinking about adding a random flow generator from Vivid but their current solution would extend it from the sea swirl elbow too much for me.

Regarding the rock you are using, the dry Pukani. I ordered about 150lbs from them also and it is pretty interesting stuff. I didn't order the large sizes but at least one piece in each of the boxes I received easily exceeded 18" in size. My better half was teasing me asking if I accidently ordered landscape material for our front yard... My tank finished its cycle the end of February or first week of March. I only flipped the lights on this past weekend and transferred my 40 breeder over.

While I like the rock, and yours is also nice, I probably would never do it again. My routine was unbox, pressure wash, 24 hours in bleach, rinse, another 24 hours in bleach, rinse, 24 more hours in bleach, rinse, add lanthanum chloride, 24 hours, rinse, more lanthanum chloride, 24 hours, rinse, pressure wash, aquascape in tank, add ri/ro water, salt mix, extra heavy dose of dechlorinator to be safe, and rode it out for about a month before moving the tank or adding lights.

Again great setup - virtual High Five.


Thanks for the kind words. Not sure if you can see it or not in the picture below but the ones on the end I have a y split on them and then two fan nozzles. The two towards the overflow I only have one nozzle on currently. I have been too lazy to dig out the other nozzle. Maybe I will get that done sometime this weekend....lol. Let me know if you need a better picture. They extend further than I would like but I am hoping once all the pretty corals grown in (once I can keep them alive) people won't notice. I also plan to re-frame the tank. I want to bring the top part down a bit so you only see the water line.

Funny story about the Pukani...those big pieces are so amazing. I am crossing my fingers for you on the rock treatment. I have learned you can not rush this stuff. My first tank looked pretty when people first started using it then I fought phosphates until the tank crashed. What is your current phosphate reading?

Right back at you with the virtual high five :). :beer:

https://farm1.staticflickr.com/875/26702301577_ffd141f97c_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/G***XX)IMG_1939 (https://flic.kr/p/G***XX) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

[McPuff]

https://farm1.staticflickr.com/875/26702301577_ffd141f97c_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/G***XX)IMG_1939 (https://flic.kr/p/G***XX) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

Just one suggestion with the rock work on the left side of the picture and that is to create a small "window" or arch in the rock work so you can see the lagoon area. It just seems like a large portion of the space is not viewable... or not very easily anyway. And there isn't much open space between the rock and the viewing panel.

[nightOwl]

Just one suggestion with the rock work on the left side of the picture and that is to create a small "window" or arch in the rock work so you can see the lagoon area. It just seems like a large portion of the space is not viewable... or not very easily anyway. And there isn't much open space between the rock and the viewing panel.

McPuff - It's hard to tell from the the pictures but the lagoon is visible when you are standing in front of the tank . The distortion of 3/4 glass makes it hard for me to get a good picture. It is also really visible at the end of the tank...lol. From the inside of the fish room you can see it also. On the fish room side there is the "window/arch" you speak of too. It hard to get a good picture since it is not exactly perpendicular to the glass. Once I get some corals in there it will be easier to tell right now the Pukani rock just blends together in the photos. Lastly its kinda deceptive of how much space is between the rock and the viewing panel. In the front its about 4" at the closest point and on the backside its about 6". I may play around with the aquascape a bit to make it more visible but I am a little limited by the size of the rocks...lol. Thanks for the input it helps when trying to get it just right.

[McPuff]

McPuff - It's hard to tell from the the pictures but the lagoon is visible when you are standing in front of the tank . The distortion of 3/4 glass makes it hard for me to get a good picture. It is also really visible at the end of the tank...lol. From the inside of the fish room you can see it also. On the fish room side there is the "window/arch" you speak of too. It hard to get a good picture since it is not exactly perpendicular to the glass. Once I get some corals in there it will be easier to tell right now the Pukani rock just blends together in the photos. Lastly its kinda deceptive of how much space is between the rock and the viewing panel. In the front its about 4" at the closest point and on the backside its about 6". I may play around with the aquascape a bit to make it more visible but I am a little limited by the size of the rocks...lol. Thanks for the input it helps when trying to get it just right.

I didn't mean to be critical so I hope it wasn't taken that way. You're right that it's hard to tell with the white on white of the rock. In my tank, I must have re-arranged and/or removed a few rocks multiple times to get it where I now feel mostly happy with the result. It will be cool to see yours with the corals and fish. Will look terrific.

[shred5]

Love the build.

Did you make the chaeto reactor? I am guessing you did If so what brand is the reactor?

did I miss what lights are you using?

[nightOwl]

Love the build.

Did you make the chaeto reactor? or did you buy it? If so what brand is it?

did I miss what lights are you using?

shred5 - I made it myself from an old media reactor I had. Its made from an old Avast Marine media reactor I brought used. It cracked near the top and I just cut off the damaged part and glued it back together. I brought the light from Amazon and it has worked pretty good. Cheap little DIY project and as you can see I love them. The lights on the reactor can be found here (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01KLUTB1M/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o01_s01?ie=UTF8&psc=1). Couple of zip ties and you are good. For the tank I am using ReefBreeders V2 Photons.

[shred5]

shred5 - I made it myself from an old media reactor I had. Its made from an old Avast Marine media reactor I brought used. It cracked near the top and I just cut off the damaged part and glued it back together. I brought the light from Amazon and it has worked pretty good. Cheap little DIY project and as you can see I love them. The lights on the reactor can be found here (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01KLUTB1M/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o01_s01?ie=UTF8&psc=1). Couple of zip ties and you are good. For the tank I am using ReefBreeders V2 Photons.

Thanks
Yea I figured you made it i just never saw a reactor before.

[nightOwl]

I didn't mean to be critical so I hope it wasn't taken that way. You're right that it's hard to tell with the white on white of the rock. In my tank, I must have re-arranged and/or removed a few rocks multiple times to get it where I now feel mostly happy with the result. It will be cool to see yours with the corals and fish. Will look terrific.

McPuff - It was not taken in a critical or mean way at all. Part of the reason I am doing the build thread is to document my issues along the way and also to get input from others. I guess I could post the bad pictures but when I start my photo process I'm so use to throwing out anything that is not that clear...lol. This is probably revision four or five of the aquascape...lol. I may have to take a different lense down to the basement. Making me work man...lol.

[McPuff]

McPuff - It was not taken in a critical or mean way at all. Part of the reason I am doing the build thread is to document my issues along the way and also to get input from others. I guess I could post the bad pictures but when I start my photo process I'm so use to throwing out anything that is not that clear...lol. This is probably revision four or five of the aquascape...lol. I may have to take a different lense down to the basement. Making me work man...lol.

I like the chaeto reactor you made... it has me thinking about trying something similar with a very DIY container. :0)

[nightOwl]

I like the chaeto reactor you made... it has me thinking about trying something similar with a very DIY container. :0)

McPuff - Super easy and quick project. One thing to keep in mind when you add the lights try to keep the them from the seams. I left a little bit of a gap between the seams and the light since there is some heat transfer. Just something to keep in mind. Let me know how it turns out if you make one.

[nightOwl]

Thanks
Yea I figured you made it i just never saw a reactor before.

shred5 - They have some comercial units available as well but if you have a good reactor and place the light correctly it seems to work just fine :). I will have to check the reactor later on this week to see if it needs to be harvested again or not.

[shred5]

shred5 - They have some comercial units available as well but if you have a good reactor and place the light correctly it seems to work just fine :). I will have to check the reactor later on this week to see if it needs to be harvested again or not.

LOL I meant I never saw that reactor before..

I have been hearing some have issues with heat transfer to the reactors.. Have you had any issues and if not how did you prevent it?

I have reactor and I have ordered some led grow strip lights.

[nightOwl]

LOL I meant I never saw that reactor before..

I have been hearing some have issues with heat transfer to the reactors.. Have you had any issues and if not how did you prevent it?

I have reactor and I have ordered some led grow strip lights.

shred5 - LOL. A little light bulb just came on about the reactor...lol. Avast Marine brand :). So with media reactors the ones that are thin walled there may be some heat transfer. Avast products are usually over engineered....lol so the acrylic of the model I have was not that thin stuff. No heat issues that I know of. I also left space between the rows so the lights can receive some passive cooling. I also run the reactor every four hours so that may help as well. For comparison I like the shiny new BioTech reactors I recently got but I don't think they would do well as the material seems to be a tad little thinner. What type of reactor do you have?

[saf1]

Thanks for picture of the sea swirl, appreciated. I'll have to do something with mine. They are using just the elbow at the moment. Your picture is giving me some ideas.

I also have pukani rock and you are right - phosphate holder. I had the rock outside in a bit and dosed LC daily rinsing in between and it is still reading .25 on my Hanna checker this am. I thought most of it would be gone but I guess the rock doesn't want to let it go completely. I'm going to do a water change this week so will measure again after that and see if it stays down. If not then I'll have to find a way to dose in the display.

Which brings me to a question if you don't mind. Are you dosing in the display and if so how are you capturing the residual? I don't have any filter socks so not sure how I can dose if so and contain the white film or whatever it is that occurs after.

Oh - one last question, sorry. It may be stupid at that. Does the reactor with cheto in it actually help at all? I mean is it pulling nutrients or enough I mean based on the flow rate though it or am I not understanding how it works? I'm guessing it works along the lines of a algae / turf scrubber.

[nightOwl]

Thanks for picture of the sea swirl, appreciated. I'll have to do something with mine. They are using just the elbow at the moment. Your picture is giving me some ideas.

I also have pukani rock and you are right - phosphate holder. I had the rock outside in a bit and dosed LC daily rinsing in between and it is still reading .25 on my Hanna checker this am. I thought most of it would be gone but I guess the rock doesn't want to let it go completely. I'm going to do a water change this week so will measure again after that and see if it stays down. If not then I'll have to find a way to dose in the display.

Which brings me to a question if you don't mind. Are you dosing in the display and if so how are you capturing the residual? I don't have any filter socks so not sure how I can dose if so and contain the white film or whatever it is that occurs after.

Oh - one last question, sorry. It may be stupid at that. Does the reactor with cheto in it actually help at all? I mean is it pulling nutrients or enough I mean based on the flow rate though it or am I not understanding how it works? I'm guessing it works along the lines of a algae / turf scrubber.

saf1 - I think my only issue with the sea swirls is that for the 1" version they are huge. The elbow I think comes in at 1-1/4" but it is threaded for 1". It's bulky but works :). Right now my return pump with the oceans motion and the sea swirls just creates gentle flow. The MP40's are my main method of turn over and I may swap one out for an MP60 to get more flow in the tank.

With the Pukani there are two things to keep in mind. Having crashed two tanks with it already the key is to be patient and don't rush....lol. Depending on the brand of LC you are using it may seem like it is taking forever. I like SeaKlear its a little more expensive but the concentration is higher. If you are using a trashcan like I was get a 10 micron filter sock to catch the particulate that will be created. I dosed 10 ml in a 30 gallon trash bin. Straight LC no diluting since it was not in a tank. The water will turn milky white for sure. Wait 4-5 days measure phosphate then do a 100% water change. When the phosphates starts to hold for a few days you are making progress. I found out that the once I did this a few times the levels started to equalize. When the phosphate held at a low level for more than 5 days I knew I was close. When I brought the ultra low tester and it stayed at 7 for a week I was very happy. The last water changed I did it think it was at 5 or something and i was cool with that. So far in the display my old tester still reads 0.00 ppm and based on past experience this is great. I am not currently dosing anything in the main display. I am running the chaeto reactor and that the other reactor has the GFO in it because I was scared from past experiences...lol. So to recap be patient...lol. Once you put it in your display (if it's not ready) it's a pain with algae and other issues if you rush it. I will dig up some old pictures to show how fast it goes downhill. If you choose to dose in your display I would suggest you use a 10 micron filter sock. I used a filter sock in conjunction with the Two Little Fishes reactor filled with cotton and that stuff still was present in the water in the trashcan. When I moved to main display I actually rinsed the rock off with fresh water to make there was not residue on the rock.

I think the reactor is doing something it is similar to an algae/turf scrubber. I have a DIY version I may put on my frag tank that I had on my old 180. I am messing with the LED's to light it now. The Cheato reactor is just another nutrient export mechanism so you guessed correctly :). Based on some of the videos BRStv Investigates videos (I love this series) it can have some impact. I do not know how much of an impact it has currently, but I think its a good addition to the tank. I think once I start getting stuff in the tank and feeding heavy I will quickly find out. Also no question is stupid except the ones you don't ask. Part of the reason RC is so great is that we can share information with each other and its FREE :).

[shred5]

shred5 - LOL. A little light bulb just came on about the reactor...lol. Avast Marine brand :). So with media reactors the ones that are thin walled there may be some heat transfer. Avast products are usually over engineered....lol so the acrylic of the model I have was not that thin stuff. No heat issues that I know of. I also left space between the rows so the lights can receive some passive cooling. I also run the reactor every four hours so that may help as well. For comparison I like the shiny new BioTech reactors I recently got but I don't think they would do well as the material seems to be a tad little thinner. What type of reactor do you have?

It is some cheap reactor.. Yea I have used Avast stuff before and very well built. I also have had the BioTech reactor.

i am planing on running mine reverse of my main light to help with ph.

Thank you very much, i am enjoying your build and it is giving me some ideas on my new build.

[nightOwl]

It is some cheap reactor.. Yea I have used Avast stuff before and very well built. I also have had the BioTech reactor.

i am planing on running mine reverse of my main light to help with ph.

Thank you very much, i am enjoying your build and it is giving me some ideas on my new build.

shred5 - Make sure to keep your LED strip away from the seams of the reactor at the top and bottom. I have an Kalk Reactor and Calcium reactor from when Avast was Grey Seas Aquatics...lol. They were some local guys from our local club and now they are up there with the big boys.

Since nothing is in my tank currently and I have not been running the lights I am just running every four hours. I did turn on the lights this past weekend when I picked up some new critters for the display. Did not take long at all for the pretty white rock to start turning brown...lol. Eventually with kalk I hope to keep the ph elevated. Once the tank is packed with corals I think I will try a calcium reactor.

Glad I could help!

[nightOwl]

Main display is coming along. I have been running the lights a few hours each day to get some algae growing to feed the snails I picked up recently. The chaeto reactor is humming along pretty nicely. The pods are doing well and the Ocean Magik is almost gone so once that is gone the pods should have been weened off of it. I can see them on the glass in both the display and the frag tank. My QT tanks tank needs to be plumbed and I am waiting on a glass drill bit to arrive. I will have a new update tomorrow but in the meantime here is what has happened in the last week or so.


General Updates
04/21/2018 - Critter Run/Frag Update
So I have been looking at my tank daily to see if anything is changing or growing and decided I wanted to go on a little critter run. There were a few LFS's I wanted to check out to start getting a lay of the land on who has good healthy fish within a reasonable driving distance. I hoped in my truck and Checked out Reef Escape, Centreville Aquarium, and Supreme Reef. I picked up a few things on my trip. All critters were placed in the main display. I also had a package arrive on Saturday with an Iron test, Magnesium supplement and some two part.

My coral dip went much better this go around. Also I think I finally have the hang of LED's. In the back of the frag tank I have a new section called "White Walkers". I am not sure if they will come back at all but I want to just keep them until they turn brown and I know there is no chance the corals are alive. An update on my corals from 4/10 I am now down to three.

Rainbow Stylo - Recovering and healing
Donkey Kong - "White Walker"
Battle Corals Secale - "White Walker"
Leprechaun in Pergatory - "White Walker"
Premoberry - Recovering and healing
Jared's Red Devil Naustra - "White Walker"
Snipers Blue Something or Other - Recovering and healing


Snails and Hermits
https://farm1.staticflickr.com/962/40892821135_bd3583aebd_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/25iyp3g)IMG_2080 (https://flic.kr/p/25iyp3g) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

Emerald Crabs and Peppermint Shrimp
https://farm1.staticflickr.com/980/41791682321_9990c8a224_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/26EZi9V)IMG_2081 (https://flic.kr/p/26EZi9V) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

Couple of New Supplements
https://farm1.staticflickr.com/970/27923581908_9c61f26ed3_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/JxvE4o)IMG_2107 (https://flic.kr/p/JxvE4o) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

Online Orders
https://farm1.staticflickr.com/970/41791805631_307a0dca97_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/26EZVNX)IMG_2124 (https://flic.kr/p/26EZVNX) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

https://farm1.staticflickr.com/953/41075509334_e6c7c31934_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/25zGHSN)IMG_2137 (https://flic.kr/p/25zGHSN) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr


Two New Frags
https://farm1.staticflickr.com/910/41075166984_ae1410d3a7_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/25zEY7d)IMG_2128 (https://flic.kr/p/25zEY7d) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr



04/24/2018 - QT Tank Stand
Since my back table has limited space I wanted a smaller footprint for QT. I have two 10 gal tanks I want to stack to use as my QT. My goal was to be able to break down the set up when not and use and have it not take up too much space. So I went to my workshop and played around with a few ideas until I sketched something that I thought would work. My first revision is pretty sturdy. I was able to stand on the stand and it held my weight. I am kinda happy with the results. I just need to paint/seal it. I needed some plumbing parts and ordered those as well. Below is my two part stand that folds to save space. Using a combination of pocket holes and dowel joinery I made a pretty sturdy stand.

My Two Part QT Stand
(Folded and Stacked)
https://farm1.staticflickr.com/959/41076001464_36f0c9104f_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/25zKfaN)IMG_2146 (https://flic.kr/p/25zKfaN) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

(Part A)
https://farm1.staticflickr.com/964/27924423708_d5032c31c9_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/JxzYib)IMG_2147 (https://flic.kr/p/JxzYib) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

(Part B)
https://farm1.staticflickr.com/951/41076001714_5dc85aa454_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/25zKff7)IMG_2148 (https://flic.kr/p/25zKff7) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

https://farm1.staticflickr.com/961/41792443961_fd99fe5762_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/26F4cyD)IMG_2149 (https://flic.kr/p/26F4cyD) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

[shred5]

You got some pretty good carpentry skills.

[nightOwl]

You got some pretty good carpentry skills.

Thanks man! I just like building stuff. I sit behind a desk most of the day so it's my way to relax and be creative :).


Here is a teaser of what my next update later to night will be about
https://farm1.staticflickr.com/957/27934587038_75536f4c5a_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/Jyu4v1)IMG_2873 (https://flic.kr/p/Jyu4v1) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

[nightOwl]

Frag Updates
04/29/2018 - Frag Tank Updates
I was finally able to pick up my frags/mini colonies from msaba (Mark) and to say I was very pleased is an extreme understatement. The corals in his tank have some amazing color and hopefully I will be able get them to keep the color over the next few weeks. I wish I would had taken my real camera with me when I went for my pickup. I did manage to take a pic with my phone but it does not do the tank justice at all. I hate to even post it because it is so bad but it will give you and idea of how great his tank looks. If you see a sale thread up by him make sure to jump on it.

Mark's Tank
https://farm1.staticflickr.com/955/41098518454_a838d140ba_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/25BJDFL)20180429_111344_HDR (https://flic.kr/p/25BJDFL) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr


Below are some of the corals I picked up for a great price. I took some pictures while I was acclimating them to show how big some of these frags are.

Frags Being Acclimated
https://farm1.staticflickr.com/868/40916878125_47fa9763f3_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/25kFGkX)IMG_2870 (https://flic.kr/p/25kFGkX) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

----- Row 1 -----
Pink Lemonade
Joe the Coral
Sapphire Milli
BC Rainbow
Red Planet

----- Row 2 -----
Jedi Mind Trick
Vivid Rainbow
Hawkins Echinata
Copps Cali Cali
Crayola Plana

https://farm1.staticflickr.com/904/41098520784_5c80019125_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/25BJEnW)IMG_2874 (https://flic.kr/p/25BJEnW) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr
----- Row 3 -----
Oregon Tort
BC Spainbow
Cali Tort
Sunset Monti
Red Dragon

https://farm1.staticflickr.com/831/41098520764_f889e7e81d_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/25BJEnA)IMG_2875 (https://flic.kr/p/25BJEnA) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

----- Row 4 -----
Hiller's Aquamarine Jewel
Tyree Something
Green Slimer
Tanzanite Terror
Yellow Polyp Cap

https://farm1.staticflickr.com/952/40916878975_ed3c8a3fc2_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/25kFGAB)IMG_2877 (https://flic.kr/p/25kFGAB) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr


Frags Fully Acclimated
https://farm1.staticflickr.com/967/41098521154_7baf7f1959_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/25BJEuj)IMG_2882 (https://flic.kr/p/25BJEuj) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

[FireReeferSteve]

Awesome build....definitely following!


Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk

[nightOwl]

Awesome build....definitely following!


Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk

Welcome to the I create White Walker's thread...lol. I think I seriously may have to change the name of my thread.


General Updates
Not too much has been going on. I have been killing more corals. I am giving up on them for a while until I can figure out what is the root case besides me...lol.

My Seneye arrived and I will use it sometime this week to figure out a light intensity that is not going to kill my corals. Currently I am just running the lights on a very low blue. I am excited to try out light meter based on the BRS review its pretty accurate so this will help with me getting the color and intensity I want.

05/13/2018 - Triton Water Results Frag Tank

I received my water test results for my frag tank. After killing so many corals I figured I would try a new approach and have the water professionally tested. There are a few issues that I am going to be correcting over the next few weeks. The results give you some ideas and steps to address any item that is in the red area. I really like the test breakdown and how fast it came back. I have two other tests and will probably need to order more. I plan on getting the Frag tank stable and once that is pretty stable try to recreate the parameters in the main display. My wife says I can not buy any more corals until the ones in there die or I can see they are growing. I have attached a few screen shots to give an idea of how the data is reported. The individual results are broken down into 4 tabs. The tabs are as follows:

Data - Your results

https://farm1.staticflickr.com/972/41386213684_0e7f44426e_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/264aasm)Screen Shot 2018-05-14 at 10.17.13 AM (https://flic.kr/p/264aasm) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

https://farm1.staticflickr.com/950/40298862630_84fdf08a73_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/24p5cSo)Screen Shot 2018-05-14 at 10.17.27 AM (https://flic.kr/p/24p5cSo) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

https://farm1.staticflickr.com/950/40298862570_ec6c8f8e1d_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/24p5cRm)Screen Shot 2018-05-14 at 10.17.37 AM (https://flic.kr/p/24p5cRm) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

https://farm1.staticflickr.com/965/40298862360_5fcf2a6776_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/24p5cMJ)Screen Shot 2018-05-14 at 10.17.45 AM (https://flic.kr/p/24p5cMJ) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr[

Help - Two sub tabs (Detection and Action)
https://farm1.staticflickr.com/982/40299720520_a34a9c3117_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/24p9ATA)Screen Shot 2018-05-14 at 11.00.40 AM (https://flic.kr/p/24p9ATA) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

Dose - Two sub tabs (Detection and Action)
https://farm1.staticflickr.com/977/41388802734_d5636bed81_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/264or69)Screen Shot 2018-05-14 at 12.32.36 PM (https://flic.kr/p/264or69) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

Visual- I need to email about this one nothing seems to happen when I hit download
https://farm1.staticflickr.com/823/28237801078_9e0f9902e4_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/K2h7th)Screen Shot 2018-05-14 at 2.16.26 PM (https://flic.kr/p/K2h7th) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

[AOmegaX]

Thank you for doing this! Your build quality is inspiring!

[shred5]

Any updates?

[jwheeler]

Took me a few days, but finally read every post in this thread! Your attention to detail and craftsmanship is astounding! Now I’ll be waiting for updates!

[nightOwl]

Thank you for doing this! Your build quality is inspiring!
AOmegaX - Thanks for the kind words.

Any updates?
shred5 - I have been a little behind but slowly making progress.

Took me a few days, but finally read every post in this thread! Your attention to detail and craftsmanship is astounding! Now I’ll be waiting for updates!
jwheeler - Thanks for the kind words and tagging along.

[biecacka]

Looking very good!

Corey

[nightOwl]

Looking very good!

Corey

biecacka - Thanks for the kind words!


It’s been a while and it’s that time of the year where things are pretty hectic so things may be a little slow but I am still plugging along. I have been keeping up with water changes on the frag tank and monitoring the water quality. I have been fighting elevated levels of Alk in the frag tank and can’t figure out why since regular IO is so low. I have stopped dosing daily amounts of Alk, Cal, and Mag and recently the Alk levels have subsided. Also for any reefer using LEDs the Seneye is the best thing since sliced bread for accurately finding your par readings and for only $200 its way more accurate than the Apogee meter. Like I mentioned before BRS did a head to head test with a very expensive meter and it held its own.

Frags in the frog tank are sorta in a limbo state where they are not dying but not thriving. Coralline algae is starting to appear on the bottom of the tank and some of the corals are encrusting. Everything is very pale but it has been weeks since I created a new soldier to the arm. With the help of the Seneye I have brought the par down to a reasonable level. The main display is plugging along as well. My LC treatment really helped with the Pukani rock. So far I have not had a huge algae outbreak. In the past with the amount of light I am using the main tank would have been a great green mound by now. I keep testing the phosphate levels and when they rise a bit I swap out the GFO to bring them back down. The rock must not be leaching as much anymore because the Cheato is not really growing much and I feed the tank daily.

So a few updates…

05/05/2018 - Used MP10 Wireless and Bubble Magnus Doser
I am always looking for a deal on equipment even when I really don’t need it. I ran across a thread on my local club forum for a MP10 Wireless pump for a good price. I rode out to my old stomping grounds in VA and picked up the pump and while I was there he showed me a doser. I knew I already had a AquaMedic doser somewhere in a box but could not find it. I also knew I had plans to build my own but I could not pass up the deal on this one so I added it to my list. At the time I knew I needed several dosing nipples but I picked up the doser just the same. I still plan on making my own for the main tank. With the MP10 on the frag tank it gave me a good variety of flow. Once the corals are really growing I will be able to use the doser to keep all the elements up to the correct levels without having to manually dose daily.


MP10
https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1754/41862905005_5220621822_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/26Mhkbe)IMG_3056 (https://flic.kr/p/26Mhkbe) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

Doser
https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1747/41862905265_cd69e4544c_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/26MhkfH)IMG_3055 (https://flic.kr/p/26MhkfH) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr


05/15/2018 - 748S911 Stopped By
My buddy Jesse stopped by to visit the tank and see my progress. It was good to bounce some ideas off of him and get some feedback on my progress. My rock structure had the effect I had hoped also. When he stepped in the fish room and say the view I will have from the fish room he liked it too. We ended up bsing for a while and I shared with him some of my ideas for what I planned to do. His tank is filled with greedy fish and I was throwing away some Cheeto so Jesse took it off my hands. It was fun to take a break from working on the tank and talk some ideas over and get some feedback in real time. There is still a lot of work to do but I am still making progress.




05/23/2018 - QT Set-up
So my QT was finally fully set up and I had been trying to figure out what my first fish would be. I cycled the tank with some Instant Ocean BIO-Spira. I threw some food in for a few days and after a few days tested to make sure there was no Ammonia, Nitrite, or Nitrate. Once I was sure it was good I started my fish search. I was leaning towards buying a tang but in my infinite wisdom I figured I could do three in one shot if the tank was divided properly. I decided that a divider in the top would help me do two then the third would be in the bottom. I had some left over acrylic and after some time with the table saw and router I made a divider. To help filter the tank I brought a cheap Aqueon Power Filter. The replacement filters were not that expensive and they even have a little ammonia reducer sponge. I may upgrade later and add a small protein skimmer since my current HOB skimmer the ceramic shaft was broken on the impeller.

Divider
https://farm1.staticflickr.com/880/42715547302_be63014194_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/285Cm2u)IMG_3043 (https://flic.kr/p/285Cm2u) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

https://farm1.staticflickr.com/876/41864745275_24a20ee331_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/26MrLe2)IMG_3044 (https://flic.kr/p/26MrLe2) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1739/28889460528_94e30fd5cf_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/L1S383)IMG_3046 (https://flic.kr/p/L1S383) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

Aqueon Power Filter
https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1758/41862903225_897a1756ee_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/26MhjDx)IMG_3039 (https://flic.kr/p/26MhjDx) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

QT
https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1729/41862905635_aa019482b8_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/26Mhkn6)IMG_3000 (https://flic.kr/p/26Mhkn6) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

https://farm1.staticflickr.com/900/42049661934_d2c0471514_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/274Mvvh)IMG_3047 (https://flic.kr/p/274Mvvh) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

I will update more tomorrow..

[shred5]

shred5 - I have been a little behind but slowly making progress.

.


I understand completely. My new system has been set up since January. I didn't even turn the lights on for two months. I still have only a few fish and do not think I will get to it till fall now.

Was worried though something went wrong with your system.

[nightOwl]

I understand completely. My new system has been set up since January. I didn't even turn the lights on for two months. I still have only a few fish and do not think I will get to it till fall now.

Was worried though something went wrong with your system.

Shred5 - So far so good! Thanks for checking in on me. I am just hoping things continue to proceed on a path of progression. I run downstairs every morning waiting to see algae appear overnight in the main display. LC really works with Pukani Rock :).


General Updates


05/29/2018 - Water Defectors
I am still tweaking the water levels in the main display. I have not figured out the exact water level but I plan to keep tweaking until I get to where I feel there is not an excessive amount of water draining back into the sump when I turn the pump off. The issue presents itself when I try to create a syphon break above the lowest point on the weir. It keeps the water from draining back into the sump but when the water comes back on there was too much splashing. To combat that I created some water deflectors to go on top on the returns. I will try to get better pictures of the deflectors. The ones I have were way too blurry. They are basically large triangles that allow me to keep the two returns closest to the weirs out of the water without splashing too much. I glued them in place and hopefully they will stay on since I only used some super glue gel.


06/01/2018 - BRS Order Arrived
I “needed” a few things for the main tank so for Mother’s Day I placed and order :). I’m sure there are some mothers in the tank that would be very happy I cared enough to think of them…lol. BRS Investigates gets the credit for me switching to multiple stage DI resin. The water in the area of MD where I am is very hard on filters and resin. When I used just the standard mixed resin my machine would burn through the resin much faster. Now that I am using three stages I am seeing much better results and my TDS meter is still reading 0. I am really happy I decided to try the new approach. I ordered some new filters, resin, Amino Acid, Hanna Cuvettes, Hanna Alk Reagent, a Potassium Test, tips for the doser I picked up, and an Avast Marine Works Kalk Stirrer. I plan on using the Kalk Stirrer on the main display and repairing my old one for the Frag tank.

Resin and Filters
https://farm1.staticflickr.com/879/42734534292_2f634922c5_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/287iEco)IMG_3050 (https://flic.kr/p/287iEco) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

Miss Items
https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1722/42066988044_3d32017ba3_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/276jiXj)IMG_3051 (https://flic.kr/p/276jiXj) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

Kalk Stirrer
https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1759/42734533052_d89f52f842_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/287iDQ1)IMG_3059 (https://flic.kr/p/287iDQ1) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

06/02/2018 - First Fish Arrive
My fish were supposed to arrive on Friday 06/01 but due to bad weather in Kentucky they were rescheduled for Sat. All day on Friday I was waiting like a kid at Christmas then I received text saying my package was rescheduled for Sat. My heart dropped and I immediately called LiveAquaria to double check. Customer service was very understanding about the whole situation. They informed me everyone had been upgraded to Sat delivery at no extra charge which I thought was impressive. This was my first order from LiveAquaria and the only thing I do not like is that you can not see your order history. Whoever designed their website and forgot that feature should be fired! I was worried that the extra day would lead to me having a floater in the bag but all arrived healthy. My wife gave each fish a name…lol. So I present the latest members of the family.

Yellow Tang aka Scoot and Boots -smallest of the bunch 2” including tail (was very skittish)
Purple Tang aka Raven - 3” including tail (I think its a Ravens thing)
Kole Tang aka She-Ra - 3.5” including tail (Not sure on her logic here)

I am not sure why these names were chosen but these were the names given to each of them as I acclimated them.

My Fish
https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1760/27915385887_595874a77f_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/JwMDEF)IMG_3061 (https://flic.kr/p/JwMDEF) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

Yellow Tang - Zebrasoma flavescens
https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1738/28889458948_ab665c10d2_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/L1S2DN)IMG_3088 (https://flic.kr/p/L1S2DN) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

Purple Tang - Zebrasoma xanthurum
https://farm1.staticflickr.com/884/28889459408_b236db9dcd_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/L1S2MJ)IMG_3077 (https://flic.kr/p/L1S2MJ) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

Kole Tang - Ctenochaetus strigosus
https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1727/41862904055_aa4cab9a07_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/26MhjTR)IMG_3063 (https://flic.kr/p/26MhjTR) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

[nightOwl]

General Updates

06/03/2018 - Lunch and Field Trip
So a few of my fish buddies and I try to meet periodically to just shot the breeze, visit each others tanks, or some type of fun activity. Richard - RJT, Larry - worm5406, and Tom - Tom39 and I started our tank visit group I think back in 2013. On Sunday Richard, Tom, and I met up for lunch and a field trip. Larry could not make this outing. We meet at Mike's American Restaurant then visited two local fish stores. Sometimes we have items to trade amongst ourselves so I managed to score a UV Sterilizer from Tom. He did not need two of the same. I picked up some PE Mysis from one of the stores and then some LRS Herbivore Frenzy from the other.

UV Sterilizer - Coralife Turbo-Twist Ultraviolet Sterilizer -36 watt
https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1738/42066987844_420b431b55_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/276jiTS)IMG_9842 (https://flic.kr/p/276jiTS) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr


06/11/2018 - More Projects and Critter Transfer to Display
So I have been keeping a list of small projects I could complete in a few hours or less that would help make my life easier in the fish room. I figured I could start with the three below and make great progress in a short period of time.


Top-off Container for QT
Algae Reactor and Kalk Platform
Ecotech Controller Holder


While going through QT for my new fish I realized I needed a small top-off container for the QT. Adding water is boooooring. I keep scraps of acrylic sitting around so I cut the pieces for the top-off container. I will find time to assemble in the next few weeks but the step one is done. Once assembled it will go below the top tank in front of the bottom tank. When I built the collapsable platform to hold the tank I designed it so I could eventually have a small container that would hold top-off water.

When we got solar installed Solar City gave us a fancy box that held the gateway that gets connected to our router. The box was fairly fancy for what it was holding and very heavy duty. It just happened that the box was just the right size to be a stand for my algae reactor. When my Kalk Stirrer arrived I quickly realized I would need to raise it about the same height as the algae reactor to allow the saturated solution to drain into the return area of the sump. Once I measured the two base widths I calculated the overall dimensions and headed off to the garage.

Now that I have two Vortech pumps on the frag tank it occurred to me that I needed a new holder for the controllers. Currently the two controllers are just laying on the back table in a pile of cords. I had a little spill form the QT and came to the conclusion getting shocked would not be a good thing so they needed to be mounted…lol. I pulled the original off the wall by the display and carried it to the garage. Within 20 mins or so I had all my parts I needed.


While trying to remove the last of the critters from my old temp set up I found a starfish that I thought had died. I took a picture and it reminded me that I did not post a picture of when I transferred the first brittle starfish. To compare the two the first picture is of the most recent brittle starfish I transfer the second is Tiny. Tiny was in the main part of my temp setup and collected food daily. The other two that I transferred were in the 100 tub that I did not feed that often after I was down to only the clown fish. I guess you can tell when starfish are well fed.

Projects in Progress
https://farm1.staticflickr.com/891/42066986864_22e7c32cab_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/276jiAY)IMG_9834 (https://flic.kr/p/276jiAY) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

Top Off Container
https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1722/42066987144_c8877f39c9_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/276jiFN)IMG_9835 (https://flic.kr/p/276jiFN) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

Kalk and Algae Reactor Platform
https://farm1.staticflickr.com/880/42734533942_e3541ae7e0_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/287iE6m)IMG_9836 (https://flic.kr/p/287iE6m) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

Before
https://farm1.staticflickr.com/880/42066988654_36eee80cd8_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/276jj8Q)IMG_9849 (https://flic.kr/p/276jj8Q) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

After
https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1759/42734535942_b576fe2ff0_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/287iEFQ)IMG_9851 (https://flic.kr/p/287iEFQ) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr


Parts for WP Controller Holder
https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1748/42734534952_f21e2cb042_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/287iEoL)IMG_9843 (https://flic.kr/p/287iEoL) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

Assembled (New One on Top)
https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1727/42066988244_998ed1cb75_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/276jj1L)IMG_9845 (https://flic.kr/p/276jj1L) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

Last Brittle Star
https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1751/42066987554_32b87cf846_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/276jiNS)IMG_9841 (https://flic.kr/p/276jiNS) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

Tiny
https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1725/28889460768_be6a4f5c39_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/L1S3cb)IMG_2911 (https://flic.kr/p/L1S3cb) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

[nightOwl]

So I am back from vacation and things are coming along slowly but surely. I went to Jamaica for week to get some much needed rest and relaxation and also managed to get some snorkeling in. I pretty much snorkeled everyday and the great thing about the place we stayed was that the fish come to you. They are so use to tourist having bread its their first reaction which show how strong hunger can override instincts. Before leaving I tried to set my self up for success by automating my feeding process. All fish were alive when I got back so things went well. I am not thinking about my next fish selection. I think I am going to go with my favorite Blue Eye/Threadfin Cardinals (Apogon leptacanthus).

06/14/2018 -Dip and Fish Food Order
In order to have a great variety of food for my fish I wanted to try a few different foods. Before leaving QT I made sure to my fish would eat all different types of food. When I placed my food order I added a few Blue Life USA - Safety Stop dips as well.

Variety of Food
https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1825/42424247415_d9266bfa07_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/27CTmHD)IMG_3130 (https://flic.kr/p/27CTmHD) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

06/18/2018 - Put QT Fish in Main Display
Before vacation I moved the fish from their QT into the main display. While in QT the yellow and purple tang were right beside each other divided by acrylic separator while the bristletooth was in the bottom tank. I used the two part dip and the fish had no adverse reactions. Once I put them in the main display they found each other and seemed to be happy. I monitored then a few days and there was no aggression.


06/20/2018 - Small Reef Cleaners Order
Since things are not fully automated and settled in like I would like it to be I wanted to make the time I was away as stress-free as possible. I set up an automatic feeder on both tanks once a day on the frag tank and twice a day on the main display. After a few test runs I figured out what the portions would be and monitored a few days before I left for vacation. Since I figured I would be feeding heavy to keep aggression down I also added a small clean up crew as well to help with the potential algae that would ensue. I also added a small UV unit and skimmer. On the next QT run I will try them out.

Small Order
https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1829/41518359510_0db96c94fc_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/26fQrNE)IMG_3128 (https://flic.kr/p/26fQrNE) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr


06/26/2018 - 07/03/2018 - Vacation
Things were moving along pretty slowly before vacation as I was sorta in limbo with not wanting to make to many changes before leaving town and the first vacation with a new tank and no tank sitter. We went away for a week to Jamaica and I literally snorkeled everyday! The resort we stayed at had a lovely beach area where you could snorkel in pretty shallow water. I should have purchased a newer camera before leaving but waited too late to buy one. I was able to get some decent pictures with my old Olympus TG-2. Below are a few pictures...this reignited the passion of wanting things to be in the tank that move with flow...lol.

Snorkeling in Jamaica
https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1827/43304025882_8fe6efb83b_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/28YCscU)P6280477 (https://flic.kr/p/28YCscU) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

https://farm1.staticflickr.com/836/42448814835_b3b713cf08_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/27F4gKR)P6280208 (https://flic.kr/p/27F4gKR) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

https://farm1.staticflickr.com/843/43304025672_6be7c420c2_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/28YCs9h)P6280624 (https://flic.kr/p/28YCs9h) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

https://farm1.staticflickr.com/841/42448815595_529700c298_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/27F4gYX)P6280666 (https://flic.kr/p/27F4gYX) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr


07/04/2018 - Old Tank Down
I was sick on the 4th (Summer cold suck) and tired from vacation but I wanted to stay on the schedule I had created for myself while relaxing on the beach. I promised myself I would break down the old set up while on the beach one day. After a few hours of work all water, rock, and tanks were empty. It felt good to finally close that chapter of tank journey.

Tank Breakdown
https://farm1.staticflickr.com/837/41518358660_0a99efede2_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/26fQry1)IMG_3131 (https://flic.kr/p/26fQry1) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

07/08/2018 - Installed Kalk Stirrer
I finally got around to added the kalk stirrer to the main display. I have not set up the dosing schedule but everything is installed and working correctly. I am using a AquaLifter pump to feed the stirrer and rigid tubing for all the runs. Next week I will see how much alk the tank looses starting on Monday for about 3 days. I figured the tank is evaporating about a gallon a day. I will tweak the dosing until it holds the alk steady for about a week then cross fingers and hope for the best...lol.

07/09/2018 - Marine Depot Order
Daily testing of the levels is becoming taxing on my test kits so I ordered some new kits. Also the Simplicity skimmer while doing a pretty decent job has been frustrating me for a while now. I have replaced two propellers, one pump, and the collection cup nipple issue has been annoying. Simplicity has been great throughout the whole process. I like you can deal with a real person with minor effort. They even sent the silicone fitting for the nipple but I never got around to trying it out. I ordered a new skimmer and plan on seeing if the results are any better. In preparation for future fish that may disturb the sand bed I ordered some more epoxy as well.

New Skimmer
Mag Test
Reef Welder Epoxy Glue
Hannah Low Range Phosphorous Test
Hannah Alk Test Reagents

Skimmer
https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1828/43278270022_ec8792a29a_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/28WmrTm)IMG_3126 (https://flic.kr/p/28WmrTm) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

[nightOwl]

Forgot to post the results from the water tests the other day. For some reason tin was really high. Other elements for the most part were good to go. I will start doing some tweaking this week to to try to get the Alk, Mag, and Cal to be more stable. The main display is maturing and I am seeing tons of sponges in the overflow and in the refugium area. Once I see some corraline algae I will add a frag or two.

https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1830/41628682660_462b73e6b7.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/26qzT2W)Screenshot-2018-7-9 Triton Applied Reef Bioscience are the world leaders in professional sea water analysis (https://flic.kr/p/26qzT2W) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1782/41628682810_821ed41d38.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/26qzT5w)Screenshot-2018-7-9-1 Triton Applied Reef Bioscience are the world leaders in professional sea water analysis (https://flic.kr/p/26qzT5w) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

https://farm1.staticflickr.com/925/41628682910_dc3f2b7972.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/26qzT7f)Screenshot-2018-7-9-2 Triton Applied Reef Bioscience are the world leaders in professional sea water analysis (https://flic.kr/p/26qzT7f) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1824/41628683010_b09e1280e5.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/26qzT8Y)Screenshot-2018-7-9-3 Triton Applied Reef Bioscience are the world leaders in professional sea water analysis (https://flic.kr/p/26qzT8Y) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

[nightOwl]

Overdue Update
Its been a while...I am still slowly plugging along but the main display is starting to show its first signs of coralline algae in the last few weeks so I know for sure corals will grow in the display. Keeping them alive will be the challenge. I have made a few minor updates with the tank but still have some things to do. Since my last update I have done the following:


Started dosing kalk in main display
Had mini kalk overdose in main display (no corals no problem :eek2:)
Dropped Apex display in tank - it died
Fixed the water logged Apex Display after two weeks of tinkering
Purchase Three new fish and keep them alive in QT for 21 days
Found one of the new fish partially dead the next morning after putting in main display (day 22)
Killed 4 more corals in frag tank
Brought two used MP60s - these things are impressive!
Ordered crazy expensive under cabinet fridge/freezer with 7lb ice making ability for bar
Installed waterproof vinyl flooring in bar area
Installed a backsplash for bar
Finished plumbing of my walk-up bar sink
Finished my walk-up bar!
Acquired some new corals
Acquired a new fish (Sailfin/Algae Blenny (Salarias fasciatus))
Turned fish QT into new coral QT
Finally moved some corals into the main display



I managed to kill two Apex Displays (dropped one in tank while adjusting the kalk, other one froze up). I purchased a brand new and a used Apex combo (came with display, two leak detectors, EB8, WXM module, cables and three probes). I bricked one display and somehow managed to bring the one that fell in the tank back to life. It has battle scars though...it now has lines on the display. It is readable so that's all that matters. So I am down one display but it may be fixable by Neptune because if I let is set for a few days it will come on just not do anything.

The three fish I ordered were two ORA Wyoming White Ocellaris (Amphiprion ocellaris) and one Orange Spotted Blenny (Benniella chrysospilos). The blenny I found the next morning starting to dry out on the stepping board of the tank. Even in death he had a funny expression like 'Oh s&** I have messed up now!"


I will post some pictures later but wanted to at least update the thread since it has been so long.

[serenity]

Great update, but we don't believe you b/c we don't see any photos ;)

You don't even need a display anymore with Neptune, get her online and use an ipad/phone!

We have to work on the killing of fish, they may all start to fear you! :D

[nightOwl]

Great update, but we don't believe you b/c we don't see any photos ;)

You don't even need a display anymore with Neptune, get her online and use an ipad/phone!

We have to work on the killing of fish, they may all start to fear you! :D

serenity - Photos are here! I am old school I like to have the display. It's handy when I am in the basement and just need to do a quick feed mode without logging into my computer or phone.

That fish decided to end his own life...the crazy thing was that night I said I should put a cover over the tank soon as I was thinking about getting some wrasses soon. Due to the jumper I have my cover almost done now...lol.

Here are some random pictures

Random Pictures
Orange Spotted Blenny (Benniella chrysospilos)
https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1929/44833978704_8abb9f9627_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2biPRSQ)IMG_3461 (https://flic.kr/p/2biPRSQ) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr


ORA Wyoming White Ocellaris (Amphiprion ocellaris)
https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1909/44833978804_20fe45c4f1_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2biPRUy)IMG_3400 (https://flic.kr/p/2biPRUy) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

Hermit Crab Working
https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1980/44833978624_056186f7a6_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2biPRRs)IMG_3486 (https://flic.kr/p/2biPRRs) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

Coralline Algae Spots
https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1980/44833979294_fc0bfd9456_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2biPS41)IMG_3273 (https://flic.kr/p/2biPS41) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1941/44833977884_b3a9562bf3_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2biPRCG)IMG_3304 (https://flic.kr/p/2biPRCG) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

Kole Tang - (Ctenochaetus strigosus)
https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1913/44833979064_b95f8aec0a_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2biPRZ3)IMG_3352 (https://flic.kr/p/2biPRZ3) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

[nightOwl]

Random Pictures - Continued
Bar Items
https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1969/44833978934_5edd504ec1_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2biPRWN)IMG_3378 (https://flic.kr/p/2biPRWN) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

Backsplash
https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1956/44833979674_64b169547f_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2biPSay)20180824_102130~2 (https://flic.kr/p/2biPSay) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

Before
https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1901/44833979374_1de3c0ec61_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2biPS5o)IMG_3233 (https://flic.kr/p/2biPS5o) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

After
https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1967/44644882395_f7f5d90320_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2b27G8D)IMG_3580 (https://flic.kr/p/2b27G8D) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

Blueberry and Strawberry Mojitos - Open Bar!
https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1901/44833979534_1de3c0ec61_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2biPS89)20180914_203801 (https://flic.kr/p/2biPS89) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flick

[nightOwl]

Every now and then we need to look back at what we have done in the past to be inspired about what the future holds. With that said here are a few of my old pictures that help me stay focused. Each time I kill a coral I tell myself you can grow corals you really can! Then I go and look at some old pictures when things were simple before all the fancy silly names when you could go to your LFS and get reasonably priced frags for a decent price.


Some of My Inspiration
https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1939/45385124451_b8dd9f8cfe_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2c9wCiH)IMG_0407 (https://flic.kr/p/2c9wCiH) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1969/45385124701_a689731ed2_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2c9wCo2)IMG_0398 (https://flic.kr/p/2c9wCo2) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1905/45385125421_003c7a2501_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2c9wCAr)IMG_0350 (https://flic.kr/p/2c9wCAr) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1956/45385125681_cc0fce79d2_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2c9wCEV)IMG_0342 (https://flic.kr/p/2c9wCEV) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1969/44661296654_815a453140_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2b3yPw7)IMG_0590 (https://flic.kr/p/2b3yPw7) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1918/45334267572_27ce58bb24_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2c52YjY)IMG_1029 (https://flic.kr/p/2c52YjY) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1950/43559747840_139be4b6f2_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/29ne6rb)IMG_5035 (https://flic.kr/p/29ne6rb) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1974/30436377507_ce8eb5a1fb_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/NnyoDr)IMG_4702 (https://flic.kr/p/NnyoDr) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1905/45325596512_7e33b6681a_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2c4gwHW)IMG_3033 (https://flic.kr/p/2c4gwHW) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1929/30435918537_0185bcc489_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/Nnw3da)IMG_2943 (https://flic.kr/p/Nnw3da) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

[nightOwl]

Some of My Inspiration - Continued
https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1901/30435918707_ddec5ca2a9_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/Nnw3g6)IMG_2914 (https://flic.kr/p/Nnw3g6) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1926/45325080992_b6a43428eb_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2c4dTtE)IMG_2904 (https://flic.kr/p/2c4dTtE) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1932/45325007462_994c12b040_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2c4dvBU)IMG_2683 (https://flic.kr/p/2c4dvBU) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

[McPuff]

Pretty sure I see an aiptasia in one of those pictures.... :0) Ha ha! Giving you a hard time.

The tank and bar look terrific!! How were the mojitos? I can't find a good one outside of South Beach unless I make it myself. :0)

[nightOwl]

Pretty sure I see an aiptasia in one of those pictures.... :0) Ha ha! Giving you a hard time.

The tank and bar look terrific!! How were the mojitos? I can't find a good one outside of South Beach unless I make it myself. :0)

McPuff - That aiptasia is a reminder too...LOL. I wanted live rock that had "stuff on it". Back in the day the more the better...lol. Later I learned that is is not a "softie" coral, anemone, or any type of LPS. I had to get about 4 peppermint shrimp to keep that stuff at bay and I feed heavy. I could watch some eat pellets they were so big. After a certain size the dumb shrimp left them alone...lol. So then it was all kinds of creative ways to kill it. As a result tanks start with dry rock :).

I was pretty excited and about how the bar turned out as well. The mojitos were amazing. I have my recipe down pretty good and my homemade simply syrup works well. I think the key is fresh ingredients! We grow some fresh herbs during the summer and I have experiments with various types of mint to give it a unique flavor. Wifey loves them and we have a flavored mule I like to make as well. It's like a fully stocked bar so I even have a garnish tray, fresh juice containers, exact measure pours for bottles, etc. I am going to really enjoy it on Thanksgiving when the family is over and we are watching the game on big TV in basement.

[McPuff]

McPuff - That aiptasia is a reminder too...LOL. I wanted live rock that had "stuff on it". Back in the day the more the better...lol. Later I learned that is is not a "softie" coral, anemone, or any type of LPS. I had to get about 4 peppermint shrimp to keep that stuff at bay and I feed heavy. I could watch some eat pellets they were so big. After a certain size the dumb shrimp left them alone...lol. So then it was all kinds of creative ways to kill it. As a result tanks start with dry rock :).

I was pretty excited and about how the bar turned out as well. The mojitos were amazing. I have my recipe down pretty good and my homemade simply syrup works well. I think the key is fresh ingredients! We grow some fresh herbs during the summer and I have experiments with various types of mint to give it a unique flavor. Wifey loves them and we have a flavored mule I like to make as well. It's like a fully stocked bar so I even have a garnish tray, fresh juice containers, exact measure pours for bottles, etc. I am going to really enjoy it on Thanksgiving when the family is over and we are watching the game on big TV in basement.

That does sound pretty awesome!

[nightOwl]

Yea I can't wait. Our thanksgiving is huge too. I think we are expecting 25-30 people this year. I will try to post some pictures of the corals in the main display in the next few days or so. I am still reading some articles on how to take pictures under the LEDs. So far everything has been bad :(.

[nightOwl]

General Updates

10/27/2018 - Wrasse Keeper 1000, a New Fish, and a New ShrimpI finally got around to finishing my wrasse lid for the QT system with integrated LED lighting. I initially started this project back in Aug and its been painted for some time now but I did not get around to finishing it until recently when I started looking at wrasses daily. I call it the Wrasse Keeper 1000...lol. It's basically a box I can put over the tank with venting, some LED lighting, and a feed hole. So far it looks promising. I used screen door mesh and cut vertical slits in it so it could fit around the pumps and such. My QT tank now has two accessory lids. One for when corals and one for fish. I forgot to mention in my last post I acquired some more LED lighting. One of the light fixtures is pictured in my Coral set up (I have two). All of the corals in the QT were acquired from my buddy Jesse.


https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1907/44907453234_2a6959f7a9_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2bqjri5)20180829_181338 (https://flic.kr/p/2bqjri5) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1929/45631402811_c6e4d16399_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2cwhShk)IMG_3679 (https://flic.kr/p/2cwhShk) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr


https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1978/45631401251_4a738c1a59_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2cwhRPr)IMG_3680 (https://flic.kr/p/2cwhRPr) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

Coral set up...
https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1979/31759933018_e4a80a72f3_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/QovXA3)20181005_102701 (https://flic.kr/p/QovXA3) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

Also picked up a new fish and shrimp from a LFS. A Bluestreak Cleaner Wrasse (Labroides dimidiatus). A bit on the small side but eats myisis and is very active and seems to be very curious when I come near the tank. I will try to convert over to pellets but not sure it will work. The wife named her Ellie. I picked up a small Scarlet Skunk Cleaner Shrimp (Lysmata amboinensis). So far it has been staying hidden in the tank but I suspect as it gets bigger it will be out and about more.

Bluestreak Cleaner Wrasse (Labroides dimidiatus)
https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1952/45631407421_313cd3c088_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2cwhTDP)IMG_3611 (https://flic.kr/p/2cwhTDP) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1908/45631400991_9cfca957dd_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2cwhRJX)IMG_3689 (https://flic.kr/p/2cwhRJX) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

Scarlet Skunk Cleaner Shrimp (Lysmata amboinensis)
https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1963/43813794580_3a8bafa6e6_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/29KF9Fo)IMG_3654 (https://flic.kr/p/29KF9Fo) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1930/43813797400_4529eb596f_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/29KFaw1)IMG_3608 (https://flic.kr/p/29KFaw1) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

[nightOwl]

General Updates - Continued
Few Current Coral ShotsI am still trying to find the right time and color spectrum to take pictures under with so bear with me will I find the right look. I tried to take two of each. One regular and one macro of some of the corals.

https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1945/43813790500_ed5b98e02f_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/29KF8t3)IMG_3698 (https://flic.kr/p/29KF8t3) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1947/45631403751_54015e58a9_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2cwhSyx)IMG_3673 (https://flic.kr/p/2cwhSyx) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr


https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1946/45631404251_0454953bc4_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2cwhSHa)IMG_3666 (https://flic.kr/p/2cwhSHa) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1910/43813795070_9ebd992335_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/29KF9PQ)IMG_3647 (https://flic.kr/p/29KF9PQ) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1919/43813794270_4a17fee45d_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/29KF9A3)IMG_3665 (https://flic.kr/p/29KF9A3) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1957/45631405061_335e323dc3_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2cwhSX8)IMG_3649 (https://flic.kr/p/2cwhSX8) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1938/45631404621_606f3644e5_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2cwhSPx)IMG_3664 (https://flic.kr/p/2cwhSPx) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1921/45631400631_847e0647da_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2cwhRCK)IMG_3636 (https://flic.kr/p/2cwhRCK) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1969/45631400571_48c2832852_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2cwhRBH)IMG_3663 (https://flic.kr/p/2cwhRBH) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1942/44717741425_95a9b9f0bb_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2b8y7zP)IMG_3635 (https://flic.kr/p/2b8y7zP) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

[nightOwl]

General Updates - Continued
https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1937/44717741265_2ebdb969e9_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2b8y7x4)IMG_3638 (https://flic.kr/p/2b8y7x4) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1967/43813797050_92e82a685c_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/29KFapY)IMG_3616 (https://flic.kr/p/29KFapY) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1964/45631407821_1dd713cf45_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2cwhTLH)IMG_3603 (https://flic.kr/p/2cwhTLH) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1960/44717741765_3e824a64c9_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2b8y7FF)IMG_3632 (https://flic.kr/p/2b8y7FF) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1904/43813793620_ca98ab02a6_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/29KF9oQ)IMG_3668 (https://flic.kr/p/29KF9oQ) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

Finally got a decent one of the Lawnmower Blenny
https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1953/43813790080_9e2109953b_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/29KF8kN)IMG_3702 (https://flic.kr/p/29KF8kN) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr


I moved some more corals into the display so I will take some pictures in a few days. This way I can track the growth of some of these since I keep killing them in the frag I am going to move all to the main then figure out the lighting situation.

[reefmutt]

Hey Henry, I just did a super fast scroll through the first nine pages of your ridiculously meticulous build.
Simply amazing. The planning, detail and surrounding reno is gorgeous! Love the dimensions and scape of the tank!
Following!
I got your message.. happy to pass along any info i can!

[nightOwl]

Hey Henry, I just did a super fast scroll through the first nine pages of your ridiculously meticulous build.
Simply amazing. The planning, detail and surrounding reno is gorgeous! Love the dimensions and scape of the tank!
Following!
I got your message.. happy to pass along any info i can!

Matt - thanks for joining. I will be pushing out a new update soon. Oh and thanks for being open to sharing your photography tips!

[nightOwl]

Time for an overdue update. Black Friday came and went and I picked up a few items and remembered I had not updated my thread in a while. With that being said corals are growing it the main display and starting to gain some color. I spend time daily just looking at the frags and hoping they start taking off. It's like a kid with the "Are we there yet"....lol. So far I am not there or even close. I have been dosing mag every few days and the results are really showing. Normally for me I can tell things are going good when a cap shows a good growth edge and coralline algae starts to show up in multiple places.. One of my caps from Jesse is doing just that. The corals I put in in the first round from him have all showed signs of growth except the maze or brain coral. I can not seem to find a happy place for it. The the other corals however are doing great. I have picked up some new corals now that things are more stable and they are doing well also. I picked up some new fish but most have died on me. So here is summary of where I am now. In checking my pictures I realized I missed a few pictures. Also the frag tank is a hot mess. I need to order a small clean-up crew or a lawnmower blenny.

Frag Tank
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4817/44445622560_2497c15df7_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2aHvr8f)IMG_3970 (https://flic.kr/p/2aHvr8f) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr


10/31/2018 - New Fish
I picked up a Carpenter's Flasher Wrasse (Paracheilinus carpenteri) he arrived healthy and began eating the same day. Had great color but was pretty shy...the cleaner wrasse so happy to see another fish in QT I think it spooked him a bit. Later I moved both to the Display and in two days the Flasher was missing. I found him in the loving arms of Tiny my brittle starfish.

In acclimation to QT
https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1912/30938059967_0bec076e1d_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/P8TDn2)IMG_3757 (https://flic.kr/p/P8TDn2) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr


11/07/2018 - New Corals Frags
In my quest for some old school corals I found a local reefer who I was able to pick up a few corals from for a great price. Below is a list of the corals I ended up getting from him. I was looking for a frag of Leng Sy cap and I quickly found myself saying sure add that to the list.

Mini Rainbow Granuloso Colony
GH Aqua Delight
JF Day Glow
Leng Sy Cap
Electric Blue Polyp Nasuta
Pink Lemonade
Yellow Tipped Granulosa
Bonsai
Tyree Flower Petal Cap
JF Fox Flame
Lime in the Sky
Gold Polyp Table
Green Pavona
Incredible Hulk Lepto
Jack-0-Lantern Lepto


I could not beat the price he gave me on the package so I left feeling very happy. I can not seem to get good pictures of everything but will keep trying.

11/07/2018 - New Corals Frags
My quest for old school corals led me to another local reefer that had frags of superman and pokerstar monti. While picking up those two I also managed to get a frag of WWC Snowdrop Acro. The colors were very good on all three frags when I picked them up.
11/08/2017 - New Fish and Shrimp
I was on Divers Den and found a bonded pair of Flagtail Shrimp Gobies (Amblyeleotris yanoi) with a Red Banded Snapping Shrimp (Alpheus randalli) . They arrived and looked happy but were very shy. I placed them in the bottom of my QT set up and everything seemed to be going fine the first day. They are much thinner than I expected so I was a bit concerned. The gobies were very jumpy but due to the water levels in bottom of QT I thought they would be fine. I was looking forward to the watching the relationship between the bad eyesight shrimp and the ever peering gobies to entertain me for hours.

11/08/2017 - Snapping Shrimp Dead
Apparently the bad eye sight is true because he managed to get near the return pump and that is where I found him (stuck to the return). So the shrimp is dead and the two fish are looking like they are not a true bonded pair. They have not really been around each other much but we will see how this turns out.

11/18/2018 - Moved Fish
Since it was water change day I figured it was a good day to move the fish in the top of the QT to the Display. I ended up moving the Flasher wrasse and the cleaner to main tank. They both were eating well in QT and seemed to be doing really well. The cleaner wrasse is full of personality. He eagerly seeks the the front of the glass when its feeding time. Somehow one of the Goby fish had disappeared.

11/20/2018 - Lost and Found Goby
So one of the Goby fish was missing from the QT tank and the Flasher was missing in the main tank. The day before I saw the Flasher hidden in a rock but he was not really moving.

So not sure how this happened but the missing Goby was never really missing he had some home jumped out of the QT into a bucket of make up water and had been in the water a few days. The water was room temp (around 74 degrees) so I am not sure how he was still alive.

I have a theory oh how and when but still amazed at how he was still alive. When I perform water changes for the QT I have a bucket of water I that a Mag 4 is used to pump water in the bottom of the set up. I am thinking the force of the water scared him and he jumped. He was lucky he landed in the bucket and was not sucked back into the inlet of the pump. I may rename him lucky.

11/23/2018 - Goby Moved to Display
Since I had one Goby missing and I could not get this one to eat I decided to move him to the display. There is no sand in QT and they seemed to shy away from everything I had tried feeding them. I think this will be my last attempt with these little guys.
11/24/2018 - Chaeto Harvest
I have been running my light below the Display on and off for 3 hours duriung the day. I was able to harvest a sink full of algae. I changed the ligting schedule a bit to reduce the growth. I will have it only run when the lights are off. Basically it will run from 8 PM to 11 AM.
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4844/32390714268_f8b02b0b52_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/RmfSSQ)IMG_3954 (https://flic.kr/p/RmfSSQ) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

11/25/2018 - Found Lost Goby from the QT
I found the other Goby that was lost from the QT. These fish are super jumpy. I actually found the fish in the mini skimmer I am not sure how these guys make it in tank.

11/27/2018 - Found Lost Goby in Display
The Goby I put in the main tank jumped through the screened top somehow. To give and idea of how slim the Goby was I am using the 1/4 netting you get from BRS for the DIY covers. I found him on the top but not fully dried out. I threw him back in the tank. Apparently Goby fish are not that tasty. Nothing tired to eat him for about two days then finally Tiny put his loving arms around him and I did not see him anymore. Goby and Blenny have such a weird look about them that when they carpet surf you can tell they realize this was not a good idea. He is definitely not Lucky!

12/03/2018 - New Fish Arrived
I ordered six Red Stop Light Cardinalfish
(Apogonichthys hyalinus) they were supposed to be medium but they all were small and sickly looking. One arrived dead and by 5 PM the same day another had died. They looked cool but I think like the blue eyed threadfin they are bad shippers.

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4804/32390713578_570bbe83f7_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/RmfSEW)IMG_3978 (https://flic.kr/p/RmfSEW) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr
12/08/2018 - Two More Cardinals Died
I was away from home for just a day and when I returned I found two more fish dead. Both of the fish were attached to my MP10 that I have on the QT tank. More frustration with these little fish.
12/11/2018 - New Top Down in Progress
I wanted to get get some better pictures when taking top down pictures and as a result I have started building a new top-down shooting box. I just need to paint it black and add some rubber feet to keep the bottom from getting scratched. My existing box I have had for a few years and its starting to show signs of wear.
12/13/2018 - Lucky is not so Lucky
The Goby had been missing and for a day or so in the main display manged to get through the netting. Tonight I found him on top of the screening. I feel like I am throwing away money with my fish luck.

Fish Jerky
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4850/46308280801_63a8737ca5_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2dy73wv)IMG_4202 (https://flic.kr/p/2dy73wv) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr


Coral Pictures
https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1938/44445622810_0172709669_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2aHvrcy)IMG_3965 (https://flic.kr/p/2aHvrcy) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4877/46212230392_571ebde173_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2dpBL5Y)IMG_3986 (https://flic.kr/p/2dpBL5Y) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1903/44445622250_87db7a9cc0_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2aHvr2U)IMG_3988 (https://flic.kr/p/2aHvr2U) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1934/32390713178_fe242e86fc_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/RmfSy3)IMG_3990 (https://flic.kr/p/RmfSy3) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4821/44445622080_4c4d029e2e_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2aHvqYY)IMG_3993 (https://flic.kr/p/2aHvqYY) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

[nightOwl]

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4805/32390712898_dfa6da20f7_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/RmfStd)IMG_3994 (https://flic.kr/p/RmfStd) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4896/44445621830_cea6f76bf4_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2aHvqUE)IMG_4006 (https://flic.kr/p/2aHvqUE) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4856/46212232592_9a91fafb1c_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2dpBLJU)IMG_4049 (https://flic.kr/p/2dpBLJU) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4822/31323963677_baee07fc64_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/PHZv6g)IMG_4060 (https://flic.kr/p/PHZv6g) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4812/32390712398_50e0030c5d_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/RmfSjA)IMG_4051 (https://flic.kr/p/RmfSjA) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1971/46212232332_1992cc1164_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2dpBLEq)IMG_4056 (https://flic.kr/p/2dpBLEq) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4909/45349979095_a2339c2e78_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2c6quPi)IMG_4068 (https://flic.kr/p/2c6quPi) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4840/46212231702_d83cafb357_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2dpBLty)IMG_4075 (https://flic.kr/p/2dpBLty) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4842/45349978825_d6d803837b_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2c6quJD)IMG_4079 (https://flic.kr/p/2c6quJD) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

[nightOwl]

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4846/46212229742_010baeb9a1_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2dpBKTL)IMG_4087 (https://flic.kr/p/2dpBKTL) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4916/46212231382_bbc8f936cd_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2dpBLo3)IMG_4089 (https://flic.kr/p/2dpBLo3) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1973/46212229592_1a8e010c70_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2dpBKRb)IMG_4094 (https://flic.kr/p/2dpBKRb) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4856/45349978575_126f5fc205_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2c6quEk)IMG_4097 (https://flic.kr/p/2c6quEk) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4858/46212231072_d98d53be44_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2dpBLhG)IMG_4101 (https://flic.kr/p/2dpBLhG) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4894/46212230672_3d44dd07cf_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2dpBLaN)IMG_4114 (https://flic.kr/p/2dpBLaN) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4869/45349978115_831783a9de_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2c6quwp)IMG_4116 (https://flic.kr/p/2c6quwp) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4853/46212229402_8389f9d66b_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2dpBKMU)IMG_4126 (https://flic.kr/p/2dpBKMU) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4889/31369332637_f36740548a_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/PN12GH)IMG_4137 (https://flic.kr/p/PN12GH) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4861/45585100004_9e3f08f3aa_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2cscy55)IMG_4138 (https://flic.kr/p/2cscy55) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

[nightOwl]

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4856/46308283041_ea7ef776e8_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2dy74c8)IMG_4140 (https://flic.kr/p/2dy74c8) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4873/45585099834_5064a24dfe_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2cscy29)IMG_4142 (https://flic.kr/p/2cscy29) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4845/46308282901_db088fea74_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2dy749H)IMG_4143 (https://flic.kr/p/2dy749H) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4816/46308282121_ac1ab255b2_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2dy73Vg)IMG_4162 (https://flic.kr/p/2dy73Vg) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4811/46308282771_aa668fd722_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2dy747t)IMG_4144 (https://flic.kr/p/2dy747t) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4884/45585099534_7ec9ae34a4_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2cscxVY)IMG_4149 (https://flic.kr/p/2cscxVY) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4837/46308282511_518ec36b2b_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2dy742Z)IMG_4150 (https://flic.kr/p/2dy742Z) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4915/46308281321_aa53c4d129_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2dy73Ft)IMG_4156 (https://flic.kr/p/2dy73Ft) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4807/46308282331_41f561d954_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2dy73YT)IMG_4159 (https://flic.kr/p/2dy73YT) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4904/45585099204_a842c2dd08_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2cscxQh)IMG_4160 (https://flic.kr/p/2cscxQh) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

[nightOwl]

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4824/46308282051_1b79668979_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2dy73U4)IMG_4163 (https://flic.kr/p/2dy73U4) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4892/31369332997_bee0a2225b_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/PN12NV)IMG_4171 (https://flic.kr/p/PN12NV) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4837/46308281751_900678181f_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2dy73NT)IMG_4177 (https://flic.kr/p/2dy73NT) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4903/31369332797_c6bc5b4099_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/PN12Kt)IMG_4195 (https://flic.kr/p/PN12Kt) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4897/46308281171_3eb334879b_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2dy73CT)IMG_4197 (https://flic.kr/p/2dy73CT) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4860/46308281541_5e19574c5c_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2dy73Kg)IMG_4200 (https://flic.kr/p/2dy73Kg) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

[shred5]

Very nice...

I wish there was a like button...

Wonder if RC will ever get a update.

[McPuff]

Image 4149... do you know the name of this coral?

[nightOwl]

Very nice...

I wish there was a like button...

Wonder if RC will ever get a update.

shred5 - I guess the closest thing we have is the rate the thread at the top...thanks for thinking I should get a like though.

Image 4149... do you know the name of this coral?

McPuff - Man I man I am not even sure. I have lost so many corals. I just tried looking back at some old pictures and I can't remember where or what I may have fragged it from. I can say it should be pretty when it finally colors up. I don't think its one of the "named corals". I can't tell it is a frag of an old tort. I need these corals to take off...lol.

[reefmutt]

Looking good Henry. Too bad about all the funky fish issues!
You better start naming your shots, when you know them or people like me will be constantly bothering you for names. :)
There was a time when ‘old school’ corals were purple monster, Oregon tort and pink lemonade... I guess I’m getting old!! Wait... definitely getting old...

[McPuff]

No worries. I don't care much about the name to be honest, but I have one that looks identical. So it's a curiosity...can't seem to figure out what type of coral it is. But it looks good so I'm happy. 😉

shred5 - I guess the closest thing we have is the rate the thread at the top...thanks for thinking I should get a like though.



McPuff - Man I man I am not even sure. I have lost so many corals. I just tried looking back at some old pictures and I can't remember where or what I may have fragged it from. I can say it should be pretty when it finally colors up. I don't think its one of the "named corals". I can't tell it is a frag of an old tort. I need these corals to take off...lol.

[nightOwl]

No worries. I don't care much about the name to be honest, but I have one that looks identical. So it's a curiosity...can't seem to figure out what type of coral it is. But it looks good so I'm happy. 😉

McPuff - Hopefully as it grows we will figure it out...lol. I'm old school so it may end up being (insert color) tipped acro...lol.


Looking good Henry. Too bad about all the funky fish issues!
You better start naming your shots, when you know them or people like me will be constantly bothering you for names. :)
There was a time when ‘old school’ corals were purple monster, Oregon tort and pink lemonade... I guess I’m getting old!! Wait... definitely getting old...

reefmutt - Yea the fish losses lately have been a bit tiresome. After the holidays I will regroup and order some new fish. LOL I am right there with you on the old school corals. Funny thing is tracking them down is hard sometimes...lol. And some of the really old ones seem to have gotten new names since the shift from MH to LEDs. As these start to grow I will be able to see what I really have.

UPDATE TIME

I increased the intensity on my lights a little and I think it may be helping bring out the colors in my corals. I decided to keep track of what the previous settings were in a spreadsheet and that way when I take pictures I can reference back to see any color shifts. I also have lost all the Cardinal fish from my last order. I think they were two small and unhealthy when they arrived. I my try again but think I need a place where I can see the eat first. I finished my new top down and it seems to be working well with no leaks. I am trying to keep the pictures as true to my eye as possible but some of the colors are not showing as great as they are in the tank.

Here a few things I have on my list to fix in the upcoming weeks:

Redo top off plumbing
Install check valve on return line
Fix connection issue in the basement
Redo wrasse keeper 1000



12/20/2018 - New Top Down Pictures
My new top down box has great promise. I made it from a piece of circular acrylic tubing and then just added a scrap piece of 1/4" acrylic I had in the garage. I painted the walls black and because the circumference was close to my lense there is not a lot of moving inside the box. The pictures were taken only 6 days after my last post but I like the way they came out. I have tried to take out as much as the blue as possible and make the colors look like what I see in my tank.

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7865/32578176888_6409879429_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/RCPEYY)IMG_4249 (https://flic.kr/p/RCPEYY) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7896/32578183358_f7ba6d46da_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/RCPGUw)IMG_4206 (https://flic.kr/p/RCPGUw) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

Notice the damaged part starting to close
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4896/46400045962_16e78a8f91_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2dGdn7s)IMG_4213 (https://flic.kr/p/2dGdn7s) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr


https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4897/32578181388_406cb09528_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/RCPGjy)IMG_4221 (https://flic.kr/p/RCPGjy) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7879/32578180658_9819db73d7_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/RCPG6Y)IMG_4228 (https://flic.kr/p/RCPG6Y) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7846/32578180298_f1dd80be16_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/RCPFZL)IMG_4232 (https://flic.kr/p/RCPFZL) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4901/46400049772_ea2ffed191_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2dGdof9)IMG_4234 (https://flic.kr/p/2dGdof9) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr



This color is insane

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7869/32578175098_a50b3ddf25_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/RCPEs7)IMG_4254 (https://flic.kr/p/RCPEs7) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr


https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7842/32578171458_cbf1eb11cf_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/RCPDnm)IMG_4253 (https://flic.kr/p/RCPDnm) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

[nightOwl]

General Updates - Cont
12/20/2018 - Frag Tank Algae Issues
My Frag tank algae issues are out of control. I ordered a turbo snail for it but he is not fast at all...lol. He is slowly eating away the issue. I am going to add a lawnmower blenny. I think the frag tank is very stable now. Despite the bad algae issues corals are growing and some are starting to show color. It's going to be interesting once this gets going again.

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7835/32578174188_643d41969c_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/RCPEbq)IMG_4257 (https://flic.kr/p/RCPEbq) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4838/32578173488_9e879d80c7_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/RCPDYm)IMG_4277 (https://flic.kr/p/RCPDYm) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4867/46400046612_27a762a0f2_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2dGdniE)IMG_4279 (https://flic.kr/p/2dGdniE) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7836/32578173118_ce28bcb650_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/RCPDRY)IMG_4280 (https://flic.kr/p/RCPDRY) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7852/46400046362_a8e912fa53_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2dGdnem)IMG_4281 (https://flic.kr/p/2dGdnem) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7858/32578172798_4f7f1e69c3_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/RCPDLs)IMG_4282 (https://flic.kr/p/RCPDLs) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

Not sure whats going on here :( I have had this guy since 2004.
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4864/46400046222_5c97852135_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2dGdnbW)IMG_4283 (https://flic.kr/p/2dGdnbW) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7850/32578172478_cdc739bbe2_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/RCPDEW)IMG_4285 (https://flic.kr/p/RCPDEW) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr



12/23/2018 - Algae harvest
For the amount of fish I have I feed pretty heavy so I am always worried about nutrients and phosphate levels. I am trying to make sure I have some nutrients but not ultra clean. Fish poo and feeding make for pretty corals. In about a month I had a pretty good harvest again. Next month I will weigh the amount of algae to see how much is being removed. After taking it from my sump I take the time to rinse it in the main display to release all the mini starfish, pods, and bristle worms and there were a lot of them.

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4902/32578171148_1999291eb7_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/RCPDh1)IMG_4286 (https://flic.kr/p/RCPDh1) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

[nightOwl]

It's about time for another update. Things in the main display are coming along nicely. I have noticed a little more aggression from my Purple Tang but I plan on getting some more fish to help spread the aggression around. The Yellow Tang is the main recipient of the aggression but it's more like annoying sibling aggression than real aggression. The Yellow Tang follows him around like a lost puppy dog and then the Purple Tang chases it away for a while then they swim together...lol. It's so funny to watch. I feed them multiple times a day so they all look pretty fat. I am just hoping the Yellow Tang hits a growth spurt soon.

Cheato Harvest
It's been about a month since the last harvest and this time I wanted to see how much was actually harvested. I borrowed the scale from the kitchen and grabbed a old bucket. I added the tare and looks like I am harvesting close to 1 lb. each time.

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4902/32578171148_1999291eb7_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/RCPDh1)IMG_4286 (https://flic.kr/p/RCPDh1) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4905/31840963687_aae732d172_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/QvFgbx)IMG_4302 (https://flic.kr/p/QvFgbx) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr


Organize Fish Room
I finally got around to labeling my test kits so I don't have to blindly pull them all down from the cabinet. Now instead of keeping them out all the time I can put them up and pull down only the ones I want. I also mounted my Apex Displays for the Frag and Main display. I almost had another water incident so figured that mounting was the smart thing to do. I built a holder and mounted it to the wall for the Frag Tank which is completely overridden with algae. Over the next few weeks I am going to organize my display board and a few more things in the fish room.

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4871/31840963787_51ed4ca436_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/QvFgdg)IMG_4299 (https://flic.kr/p/QvFgdg) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7805/45867733075_51ed4ca436_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2cTb834)IMG_4298 (https://flic.kr/p/2cTb834) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7861/45867733155_e175d4205e_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2cTb84r)IMG_4297 (https://flic.kr/p/2cTb84r) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

Front Tank Shot
Each month I plan to take a FTS so far there is not much to show. Once the corals start to grow in I will be happy and hopefully will be able to share some cool corals. I may post some new top downs later this weekend. I am in the process of changing my lighting schedule to reduce the white channel a little. The change I made over a month ago is growing corals but a few appear to be growing increasingly pale.

Jan FTS
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7809/45867733895_b5087f2710_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2cTb8hc)IMG_4312 (https://flic.kr/p/2cTb8hc) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

[Mav2]

Great build! Superb patience and planning - looking forward to following.

[nightOwl]

Great build! Superb patience and planning - looking forward to following.

Mav2 - Thanks for the kind words and following along. Hopefully some new top downs will be posted tomorrow.

[nightOwl]

Cap Growth - 3 Months
I have come a long way from killing corals to finally being able to grow them. My SPS are now growing especially encrusting Montis and Caps. Below is one of my growth shots. I will try to find some more old shots and a similar newer shot. The shot below is one of the first caps that started to show growth. This coral was receding and suffering from neglect. The picture below shows about 3 months of growth.

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7824/31892081937_0a08cca709_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/QAcfRF)Cap Growth (https://flic.kr/p/QAcfRF) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

[nightOwl]

Cap Growth - 3 Months
Below is another growth shot. The picture below shows about 3 months of growth between the two pictures. I wish I could have found an earlier picture. The picture from 12/20 already had signs of growth so it had been in the tank at least a month before that. When I initially put the frag in the yellow polyps were not as yellow. This one is another that has colored up nicely.


https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7830/46809789402_5e71c5c04a_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2ejqpyw)Cap Yellow Polyps Growth (https://flic.kr/p/2ejqpyw) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

[nightOwl]

SPS Growth
This one I am pretty excited about. Currently it will will be one of my center piece corals once things really start growing. I am excited about the color changes I am seeing. If the color gets more intense I am going to be a happy camper.

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7923/45947826225_7247b105d9_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2d1fBWr)SPS1 (https://flic.kr/p/2d1fBWr) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

[reefmutt]

Hey Henry, corals are looking good.
That last acro looks like a miyagi tort. A happy miyagi tort. It’s looking better and better.
Very nice!

[nightOwl]

Hey Henry, corals are looking good.
That last acro looks like a miyagi tort. A happy miyagi tort. It’s looking better and better.
Very nice!

Matt,
I was thinking the same thing about it being a Miyagi Tort. I kept looking back for old pictures and trying to figure out when I got it...lol. I just hope they all start coloring up so I can see what I have in the tank....lol. That way I know what colors I am missing or want to get next...lol. I can't get the the color just right but it looks so much better in person...lol. I am getting better with taking pictures with the LEDs. I have also figured if I take during my peak white spectrum its less work for me...lol.

[nightOwl]

General Updates

Things are coming along but I have started to hit a road bump. Corals are growing but my zoas are starting to melt. My rasta zoas were once thriving now they are melting on me very fast.

I was looking back at some pictures and noticed so far most of the coral pics are from only the left side of the tank. I took a few from right side of the tank and below you will see some new shots. I also and doing a few before and after shots. Since I removed the Chaeto I have noticed Red Slime has started popping up throughout the tank. I will cut back on the feeding a bit or change the flow of the pumps a bit and see if I can get it to go away.

Some of the corals are taking longer to color up than I think they should be progressing so I am thinking about doing some minor clipping to make the coral heal itself. Almost like what happens in the ocean when there is big storm and corals get damaged.

Coral Pic Updates - Right Side - 01-29-2019
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7900/31981973857_d1408bd7a3_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/QJ8YAn)IMG_4796 (https://flic.kr/p/QJ8YAn) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7903/31981973947_91a3878d7a_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/QJ8YBV)IMG_4792 (https://flic.kr/p/QJ8YBV) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7875/31981973977_0d38e622e1_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/QJ8YCr)IMG_4788 (https://flic.kr/p/QJ8YCr) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4818/46198220694_708b5833b6_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2donXus)IMG_4785 (https://flic.kr/p/2donXus) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4869/31981973297_031f2cda26_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/QJ8YqH)IMG_4781 (https://flic.kr/p/QJ8YqH) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7801/46923071041_5b64d7de52_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2eur1fe)IMG_4778 (https://flic.kr/p/2eur1fe) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4871/46923071131_1d7be9563d_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2eur1gM)IMG_4775 (https://flic.kr/p/2eur1gM) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7903/31981974237_77a035ae20_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/QJ8YGV)IMG_4772 (https://flic.kr/p/QJ8YGV) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7912/46923071471_ab521b2f64_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2eur1nD)IMG_4769 (https://flic.kr/p/2eur1nD) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4818/46923071401_6f7d3d1307_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2eur1mr)IMG_4770 (https://flic.kr/p/2eur1mr) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

[nightOwl]

General Updates Continued

More Coral Pics



https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7896/46198224174_52cb380a96_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2donYws)IMG_4677 (https://flic.kr/p/2donYws) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7840/33047711718_2dc758dd47_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/Smjak5)IMG_4682 (https://flic.kr/p/Smjak5) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

Encrusting well
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4880/31981973507_12851d9d0d_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/QJ8Yuk)IMG_4688 (https://flic.kr/p/QJ8Yuk) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4871/46198223814_4038716e09_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2donYqf)IMG_4701 (https://flic.kr/p/2donYqf) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7920/33047711198_52c9f6669f_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/Smjab7)IMG_4708 (https://flic.kr/p/Smjab7) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4886/39958317473_4857f50352_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/23SYPEa)IMG_4732 (https://flic.kr/p/23SYPEa) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7892/39958317263_acd6710216_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/23SYPAx)IMG_4740 (https://flic.kr/p/23SYPAx) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7820/46198222854_4cab9f5959_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2donY8G)IMG_4745 (https://flic.kr/p/2donY8G) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4819/39958317083_ceb3935a55_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/23SYPxr)IMG_4749 (https://flic.kr/p/23SYPxr) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7817/46008740375_66de6d4726_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2d6CPAp)IMG_4753 (https://flic.kr/p/2d6CPAp) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

[nightOwl]

General Updates Continued
More Coral Pics


Just three tips but hopefully will survive
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7846/46198222494_e9f4e70a39_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2donY2u)IMG_4756 (https://flic.kr/p/2donY2u) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

No longer has a split down the middle completely healed
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7842/46923071821_4a4a7a4e14_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2eur1tF)IMG_4759 (https://flic.kr/p/2eur1tF) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4805/31981973427_d7120a2eb3_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/QJ8YsX)IMG_4715 (https://flic.kr/p/QJ8YsX) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

No split down the middle anymore
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7913/46198223654_299c403e9a_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2donYnu)IMG_4705 (https://flic.kr/p/2donYnu) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4814/46198224084_1b6249a9e2_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2donYuU)IMG_4680 (https://flic.kr/p/2donYuU) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

[nightOwl]

01/30/2019 - Can I bring These Back?
My frag tank previously was killing everything I put in it before transferring my corals to the main display. A few corals were down to a few polyps and they were almost on the way out. I transferred over the rest of the corals that were holding on I have been observing them a few days and they seem to be holding on. I snapped a few pictures in the hopes to document which ones take off and which ones finally past on to the other side. Some have been in the main display a while and are already starting to show signs of improvement.

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4863/47012489951_d67febe57a_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2eCkinz)IMG_4806 (https://flic.kr/p/2eCkinz) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7915/47012489121_fea445f413_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2eCki8g)IMG_4852 (https://flic.kr/p/2eCki8g) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7874/40047937813_eef8a9c917_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/241U9Er)IMG_4903 (https://flic.kr/p/241U9Er) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7829/32071244457_8213a77983_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/QS2vCD)IMG_4894 (https://flic.kr/p/QS2vCD) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

Was down to 2 heads
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7903/47012488291_b6ed492282_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2eCkhSX)IMG_4885 (https://flic.kr/p/2eCkhSX) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr




02/01/2019 - Zoas Starting to Melt
Since I pulled out the chaeto I noticed a few things got out of wack and have been tracking some water issues. Cyno/red slime has been growing so I need to see if I can change the pump flow a bit. Another side effect seems to be my zoas have been starting to melt. I am going to try to keep them alive until I figure out if its the lack of chaeto that removes nutrients and then the sudden influx of nutrients or if its a flow issue.

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7882/47012488581_59f1ddfa8b_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2eCkhXX)IMG_4880 (https://flic.kr/p/2eCkhXX) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr




02/06/2019 - Few Random Coral Shots

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7905/40047935363_71265f266d_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/241U8Wc)IMG_4877 (https://flic.kr/p/241U8Wc) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4862/47012489871_5a86af7192_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2eCkimc)IMG_4825 (https://flic.kr/p/2eCkimc) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7862/47012489461_fcafa1c85e_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2eCkie8)IMG_4840 (https://flic.kr/p/2eCkie8) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4906/40047935173_f36ab00f99_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/241U8SV)IMG_4890 (https://flic.kr/p/241U8SV) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

[748S911]

awesome job Henry! progress looking good with great growth... glad to see corals made it and are thriving.

[nightOwl]

awesome job Henry! progress looking good with great growth... glad to see corals made it and are thriving.

Thanks Jesse! Things are really coming along now! I am almost at the setting up automatic dosing stage. I have noticed Alk is drooping faster than it has been in previous weeks. I built a stand for doser and now running a few tests before bringing it on line.

[nightOwl]

I am back to fighting my cyno issue again and it can't be because of low flow. I think I may have to figure out a more random pump flow. With all but one pump on the end of the tank it seems it hits the back wall and then comes back to the wall the pumps are on. I need to do some more research on flow in Peninsula style tank. Currently all corals seem to grow to the right if I am facing the front of the tank. The cyno is also on the right side of the tank and it is getting longer. I will try to do some water changes over the next few days to get things under control.

I also moved some corals around in the tank in the quest of trying to find them a happy place. The yellow/Orange polyp cap and rainbow stylo I have moved to different locations and a few of the corals that have been on the sand bed I moved to places on the rock.

I had a LED lighting incident but since I have killed corals in the past I recognized that I was giving the tank too much light so I reset my lights back to a month ago. Hopefully the corals will get back to normal and not look stressed.

Monthly update time
Now here's months update...

02/09/2019 - New Corals form LFS
I took a trip down to VA to drop off a bracelet for my wife at Tiffany's to get another charm added for her birthday. While in the parking lot I asked Goggle if there were any saltwater aquarium stores near me. My logic was something for her now something for meeeeeeee. I picked up about 4 corals. The two larger corals were pretty browned out but the prices were too good to pass up. My pictures are below

In acclimation
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7875/46581447384_50f20b5bb0_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2dYf6rb)20190209_123617 (https://flic.kr/p/2dYf6rb) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

In QT tank while I checked for pests
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7826/47252265022_6e3fcd510f_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2eZwd9w)IMG_5076 (https://flic.kr/p/2eZwd9w) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr


02/10/2019 - New Corals form my Buddy Francis
So Francis let me know he had some corals ready for me and he was gonna be in MD and I could pick them up. I met him and the box was heavy. Francis has been hooking me up with corals since 2005 or so maybe longer. So here is the list of what I picked up.

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7886/33428953058_5a00a9f1e6_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/SW186C)IMG_4993 (https://flic.kr/p/SW186C) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7848/46581441534_8040fbeac6_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2dYf4Gj)IMG_4999 (https://flic.kr/p/2dYf4Gj) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7803/33428954068_bf526420c4_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/SW18p3)IMG_5010 (https://flic.kr/p/SW18p3) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

In acclimation
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7906/46581431434_ffbaa1cd28_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2dYf1Gb)IMG_5013 (https://flic.kr/p/2dYf1Gb) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr


02/19/2019 - Changed Pressure Gauge
I had never had a pressure gauge fail on me with my RODI unit in teh past but on my current unit it failed. The liquid in the gauge somehow leaked out and the dial was starting to actually show signs of rust. So I brought one on Amazon and when it arrived it was way bigger than I expected but I made it work after a trip to HD.

02/10/2019 - Modified Wrasse Keeper
So the issue I had with version one was there was too much moisture accumulating and the inside was starting to accumulate mold and mildew. Also the water was getting on the LEDs and causing them to short out. I cut some new slots in the top and added some 1/4" mess. I also added a piece of acrylic where the LEDs use to sit recessed and raised them with some rigid airline tubing and replaced the LEDs.

New venting modifications
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7883/32362978727_924380bf19_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/RiNJ4R)IMG_5164 (https://flic.kr/p/RiNJ4R) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

02/24/2019 - New Projects

Since the corals were really starting to take off I wanted to get the doser on line to keep the levels consistent. I have noticed that my Alk and Mag have been dropping even with me switching to the Fritz higher Alk salt. I designed a doser stand that would look kinda cool use the initial of my first name and be functional. I made it so the base would hold my dosing container and the top would hold the doser.

The current light over my refugium has a ton of light bleeding out from under the tank and to combat that I decided to make some sides to block the light from spilling out. The hope is the more light that is going in the sump over the Cheato the faster it will grow and remove nutrients even better. I didn't want it to be permanent to where I had to put it on in one piece due to the space I have under the tank. I came up with the idea of a modular approach that each side would be held in place with magnets. After my trip to Wally World to get magnets I drilled holes strategically and embedded the magnets in the light holder and the panels. I got everything all painted and test fitted.

Magnets - let the creativity begin
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7846/47252264312_d7f761e06d_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2eZwcWh)IMG_5366 (https://flic.kr/p/2eZwcWh) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

Side for light blocker with first magnet embedded
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7855/32362978627_df26bef664_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/RiNJ38)IMG_5132 (https://flic.kr/p/RiNJ38) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

Doser stand (left), Light Holder (top right), Side Panel (bottom right)
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7900/47304742601_601ce74d2a_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2f5aaUn)IMG_5151 (https://flic.kr/p/2f5aaUn) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

[nightOwl]

02/28/2019 - New Fish, Shrimp, and Cheato Harvest
My new fish arrived and I had a Red Banded Shrimp for about 30 mins before he disappeared. I put him directly in the main display to let him start making a burrow and then get a little head start so the fish could just move in. I have decided that the Lawnmower Blenny is worth his weight in gold. This guy really earns his keep. After his dip I placed him directly in the Frag tank to see if he would have any impact on the eyesore algae issue. Every one arrived healthy but one of the clownfish had some white spots on him. I am not sure if it is ich or not. It looked like a scar but I will keep an eye on it.

2 x ORA - Black & White Ocellaris Clownfish (Amphiprion ocellaris) - Misbar
2 x Orange Spotted Goby (Amblyeleotris guttata) - (Bonded Pair) with Red Banded Pistol Shrimp
Sailfin/Algae Blenny (Salarias fasciatus)

Orange Spotted Goby's in pre QT dip
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7909/46389754225_25c5461fb9_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2dFiBJH)IMG_5340 (https://flic.kr/p/2dFiBJH) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

Black & White Misbar Ocellaris Clownfish
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7923/32363022697_a1fb8f6ff9_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/RiNX8X)IMG_5353 (https://flic.kr/p/RiNX8X) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

Orange Spotted Goby
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7889/47252264512_1b7d13032e_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2eZwcZJ)IMG_5371 (https://flic.kr/p/2eZwcZJ) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

Lawnmower Blenny
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7839/46581433424_49ec1c9642_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2dYf2hu)IMG_5382 (https://flic.kr/p/2dYf2hu) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

Another good harvest of my cheato for about a month. I am still getting close to a pound out each month. I changed the light a bit and will run for about 30 mins more each day to see if there is a noticeable difference. I also turned up the power of the LEDs.

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7868/46581433144_8ac78f786d_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2dYf2cE)IMG_5365 (https://flic.kr/p/2dYf2cE) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr


03/02/2019 - Found Lazarus (Red Stop Light Cardinalfish)
(Apogonichthys hyalinus) On 12/24/2018 I reported that all the CardinalFish had died or disappeared. Well I found one in my QT tank. The only way this was possible is when I moved some live rock from QT back to the Frag tank he had to be hidden in the rock. I only happened to see him when I was trying to see why some detritus was accumulating in the back right corner of the Frag tank behind a large piece of rock. I saw what looked like eyes peering back at me from under a edge of rock. I actually jumped back because if you have ever watched Cardinalfish swim they seem to do a jerky motion. Somehow the fish has staying alive in the tank.

Since the frag tank is battling back from the algae I plan on just having a large amount of rock in the tank with various corals on them. So I will transition it over to a regular tank with copies of some corals I want to grow out.

Current State
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7847/40339891013_502e465c4b_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/24sGubi)IMG_5388 (https://flic.kr/p/24sGubi) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr


03/03/2019 - Installed Doser, Sump Mirror, Light Control for Sump


Before
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7915/47252264422_0c45f4b444_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2eZwcYb)IMG_5368 (https://flic.kr/p/2eZwcYb) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

After
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7828/47252264822_17b349dd48_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2eZwd65)IMG_5389 (https://flic.kr/p/2eZwd65) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

Light blocker
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7905/40339891163_1825a4d3d3_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/24sGudT)IMG_5390 (https://flic.kr/p/24sGudT) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

Doser stand with mirror in background
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7858/46581447204_93c6477ab6_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2dYf6o5)IMG_5393 (https://flic.kr/p/2dYf6o5) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

[nightOwl]

Random Coral Pics

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7823/32362980687_e60314c10f_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/RiNJDD)IMG_5316 (https://flic.kr/p/RiNJDD) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7916/46389754065_c17c72fbfa_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2dFiBFX)IMG_5310 (https://flic.kr/p/2dFiBFX) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7836/46389753845_bacdf3ee64_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2dFiBCa)IMG_5281 (https://flic.kr/p/2dFiBCa) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7918/46389753515_f92907a2b5_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2dFiBwt)IMG_5276 (https://flic.kr/p/2dFiBwt) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7840/32362980067_64ac4f66e4_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/RiNJsX)IMG_5259 (https://flic.kr/p/RiNJsX) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7838/46389753285_051c9cf779_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2dFiBsv)IMG_5258 (https://flic.kr/p/2dFiBsv) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7885/32362979957_43b76ef171_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/RiNJr4)IMG_5254 (https://flic.kr/p/RiNJr4) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7889/46389753205_50a9c98326_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2dFiBr8)IMG_5248 (https://flic.kr/p/2dFiBr8) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7898/47304742761_03917844ba_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2f5aaX8)IMG_5217 (https://flic.kr/p/2f5aaX8) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7876/46389752085_7c5519afaf_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2dFiB6P)IMG_5167 (https://flic.kr/p/2dFiB6P) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

[nightOwl]

Random Pictures Continued

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7894/46389751825_8d5dcac217_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2dFiB2k)IMG_5108 (https://flic.kr/p/2dFiB2k) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7811/32362978547_89d009e4e0_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/RiNJ1K)IMG_5096 (https://flic.kr/p/RiNJ1K) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7882/33428952578_5d5c491f1f_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/SW17Xm)IMG_4992 (https://flic.kr/p/SW17Xm) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr


https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7851/47304743301_a1d6065449_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2f5ab7r)IMG_5283 (https://flic.kr/p/2f5ab7r) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7888/32362980447_b514b0690c_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/RiNJzv)IMG_5284 (https://flic.kr/p/RiNJzv) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7842/46389752795_7656ef849d_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2dFiBj4)IMG_5168 (https://flic.kr/p/2dFiBj4) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7892/46581442584_8905686e9f_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2dYf51q)IMG_5065 (https://flic.kr/p/2dYf51q) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7908/46389751955_112fac3ee7_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2dFiB4z)IMG_5156 (https://flic.kr/p/2dFiB4z) by LifeThrough_TheLense (https://www.flickr.com/photos/lifethrough_thelense/), on Flickr

[748S911]

send me a text, I decided my iphone needed a wash in the spin cycle lol.

[nightOwl]

send me a text, I decided my iphone needed a wash in the spin cycle lol.

Jesse I hit you up...lol. Keep phone out the washing machine...lol.

[hubing0917]

good job!