Built in system

[Dr. Rick]

I found you guys, not one moment too soon. I just moved in to my new house, and need a little info. I have toured the stores, and have a feel, but I need a little guidence. I have a nice spot to frame a tank, and need some advice as to who to call. Anyone know of a company that does off the hook built ins. I'm from Las Vegas, and there seems to be more companys that cater to custom installs. Thanks in advance for any pointers.

 

[DrDeano]

Dr. Rick,

How big of a system are you thinking about putting in?

Are you planning on having a reef tank, or fish only?

Dean

 

[Ray Pollett]

The biggest issues I've seen with built in tanks are Heat, and room to do Maintenance. Other than that they are pretty simple.

First figure out exactly what you want to keep, then we can help guide you thru getting it correct.

Ray

 

[Dr. Rick]

Here is the update. I have demo-ed the sheetrock and removed the non-load bearing studs. I have 116" long, 46" wide, and I have all the height that I want. So if I go to a 30"-36" tall tank, then that gives me around 650Gal.+. I have an unfinished basement, that I will run all the equipment into. So heat will be a non-issue. Question 1. Can anyone refer a company that is in good standing to submit a proposal? 2. Who are all the tank builders in this area? I have seen IAP, and I have seen better in Las Vegas. I hate to have to ship a large tank from down there. 3. What skimmer should I get? 4. Do you think that the Ice cap 400W MH would be the way to go, or a PFO standard ballast? Thanks alot, Dr.R

 

[Ray Pollett]

Dr. Rick
" So heat will be a non-issue"

Don't ount on it with MH lighting

Ray

 

[Dr. Rick]

Ray,
About the MH heat issue. I have a 10' tall cavity for the tank, and the heat will be pulled into the central vent system. I can also have instelled an additional vent to heat the downstairs. I feel very positive that 4-400w. MH's will not effest the tank temp. If on the odd chance that it does, I'll just get a chiller. It's only money, right. Ha Ha. I am not interested in this hobby, cause it's inexpensive............. Less so than my other love. Flying aircraft! So, anyone willing to reccomend a protien skimmer? Thanks, Dr. Rick

 

[DrDeano]

skimmer

skimmer?

boy you are in for a million opinions on this one!

take a minute and give Jeff a call at Lifereef

www.lifereef.com

dean

 

[Ray Pollett]

Ray,
About the MH heat issue. I have a 10' tall cavity for the tank, and the heat will be pulled into the central vent system. I can also have instelled an additional vent to heat the downstairs. I feel very positive that 4-400w. MH's will not effest the tank temp. If on the odd chance that it does, I'll just get a chiller. It's only money, right. Ha Ha. I am not interested in this hobby, cause it's inexpensive............. Less so than my other love. Flying aircraft! So, anyone willing to reccomend a protien skimmer? Thanks, Dr. Rick

As long as you understand that you will be fine. You would be surprised how many people contact me about systems in the wall and losing fish. No way to remove heat that is traped in and no way to lower tank water temp other than flowing frozen water bottles.

Ray

 

[Ray Pollett]

If you are still looking for a quality tank try:

www.westcoastaquarium.com

Ray

 

[Dr. Rick]

I have decided to go with CFI for the tank. I remember his name now. Jason knows his stuff, and really listens to you, when it comes to the design. He asked me more questions, than I asked him! He said he used to work at Saltwater City. I'm sure that some of you know him. It's a small hobbie. I have also been to 3 of his Installs. He does great work, and his customer's tanks are spectacular! He preferrs ETSS skimmers, and I will go with what he feels will do the job. They seem expensive, but you seem to get what you pay for. Only thing is, he doesen't do framing, and sheetrock. Oh, well. I will keep you all posted. Thank you, Dr. Rick