I just got 180 gal. aquarium + stand only with overflows. What else do I need? Can it be freshwater? Thanks ?
It's a 180 gallon from oceanic systems, I believe it's an older model. It has built in overflows and pre-drilled holes. I have the aquarium and stand and that's it. No filtration lights or canopy. What all do I need to get it going? Can I use freshwater? If I use saltwater do I have to have reef? I've only had experience with a 30 gallon freshwater. Thanks!
Awesome thanks for all the help. So I wanna go with fresh water I just need help and suggestions with what all I will need. I currently just have the tank which has built in overflows and the stand. What kind of equipment, filtration, plumbing, lighting, heating, and other stuff will I need beyond the fish and decorations parts? Links to best ones and best place to buy? Thanks in advance!
Great tank. The Old Oceanics are the best and you are very lucky to have an overflow tank. I have several of these and I use them all for freshwater. Go to a local saltwater pet shop. I mean an actual local shop not one of those huge box stores. You will need some help and must speak in person to someone that knows reef tanks. You will be purchasing a pvc tube that comes up into the overflow boxes. This will attach to another piece that you are able to screw pvc fittings to the inside as well as the underneath of the aquarium. The pvc pipe that comes into the overflow box needs a prefilter on it. The pipe that exits can switch to a flexible pipe and for this size aquarium you have a few options. Over the years I have switched these systems from a wet/dry sump type system to using Hagen FX5 canister filters. You can arrange to have the 2 overflow exits come together in a T and enter the FX5 then place the overflow where ever you want. You will only need 1 FX5 for a 180. It is an amazing filter. I had a wet/dry sump system along with an FX5 on my 360 and when I disconnected the wet/dry for service I found the FX5 easily handled the aquarium and has been doing so for the last year plus with crystal clear water. Make sure where the pipes leave the aquarium under the tank the first thing you do is place a ball valve to turn the pipe off and a union disconnection right after this. They sell a combination unit that has these combined. Enjoy, you'll love this aquarium and they work great for freshwater.