wayneb

Gonzobob, I agree a TDS tester will be needed and will probably get the pro model in the near future (pro because I like, need the large digital readout). Went back on line to BSR to check further on the float valve. Didn't realize at the time that the valve wasn't a switch = have an email in to BSR asking if it is possible to purchase the shut off kits without the float valves since I have/will have them on hand. Appreciate the input. wayneb

found it very interesting - saved it as a favorite. thanks, wayneb

Got a couple of questions concerning RO/DI systems: Have the BSR 75gpd 5 stage unit that will be used only for aquariums and a refridgerator ice maker in the garage (at least for the near future). 1. Can I put a flow restrictor on the DI unit and limit output to only salt water mixing barrel? Will this extend life of resin? Will have an auto shut off float valve in barrel. 2. Can I add an auto timer shut off valve to the unit's input line to limit initial operation of unit for only a few hours a day or will an auto shut off float also being added to the RO barrel be sufficient? If a timer is also recommended- any ideas as to which one, source, etc.? 3. The unit is being tapped off the cold water washer input line. Is a shut off valve in the laundry room recommended? Realize possibly overkill but can I also add another shut off valve in garage to make it easier to change out filter cartridges without having to run back and forth? 4. Am going with two pressure guages - one before unit and one after RO unit. Should I add a 3rd after DI unit? Or is it easy to see when the DI filter needs to be replaced? Thanks in advance for any suggestions/answers/recommendations. All are appreciated. wayneb

Picked up a fuge/sump that I had Shane build for me from a 40gal glass tank. He also had to repair the side of the tank which had cracked around a rough cut/drilled bulkhead fitting. Very happy with the quality of the job he did and the speed in which he did it. Suggest taking the tank to him and letting him give you his opinion and estimate. wayneb

Dena, PM sent concerning zoa frags. wayneb

My 29g JBJ Bio comes with it. In talking to their Customer Service, they recommended setting it at 20 seconds. I have the two JBJ pumps that came with the tank on one circuit with an add-on Korolia 1 in front on the other circuit. Excellent wave flow. wayneb

It is what I'm planning on going with for my 55g wayne

Also interested in zoas. Will call when you list them. wayneb

You can also fill a black trash bag with leaves, grass, even wadded up newspapers and place over the outdoor fittings. Cheaper then going to the DIY places to get the pipe wraps. As far as indoors goes - if you're worried about pipes freezing then open the sink doors to allow warm air to circulate. wayneb

Liz, I look at my first reef tank as a training experience. So far haven't killed anything in my 29 g bio cube, but its only been 3 months. I have learned quite a bit with a lot more to learn so am taking my time in setting up 120g show tank. wayneb

Dave and Robin, Both the wife and I are planning on attending. We enjoyed the last one and am looking forward to this one also. Almost ashamed to bring my little Kodak easy share though. Will pm you a few days before to find out what we can bring in the way of refreshments. wayne and lynn

Gabe, Nice to meet you. The skimmer is perfect for the sump I have. Now just have to get the 120 up and running. The zoa frag is doing great, thanks. wayne

Sounds good. Will be there at one with cash in my pocket. thanks, wayne

Will be area today around noon, if skimmer is still available let me know and I will make arrangements to pick up. Will you take a check or cash? wayneb

I have the same tank, I just run a small fan across the top when the HQ1 lights are on. Keeps the temp below 81. Got the fan from Dollar General for a few bucks. wayneb

pm sent wayneb

If you decide to go with the lighting retrofit, let me know. I have the soldering iron and tools and would be glad to help you wire them up. wayneb

Just got my RO/DI unit in so will wait until that is set up and running before doing the LR thing. I couldn't see running to HEB and getting RO every few days trying to mix up large batches of salt water to keep the live rock going. Still question about vinegar bath - use it straight or delute it and if so what % ro to vinegar? Thanks, wayne

If I can add to Mike's comment. A dedicated electrical circuit of at least 20 amps would probably do it. If you think your 15 amp will handle everything, make sure you don't have other outlets that are ganged into it. Most rooms have multiple outlets feeding one breaker with lamps, computers, tv, etc. being run on it. Adding the aquarium equipment would be a good way to keep popping the braker, and don't even want to mention worst case. Also change or have an electrician change the breaker to a GFI one. wayne

The article was interesting, however the one thing I lack right now is the time. Might try using both the cooking method (modified) and the vinegar bath on the holy rock and any uncured rock I obtain. wayne

Thanks Dave and Wryknow. Should I add a heater to the container of live rock? Plus should I use straight dilluted vinegar or water it down a bit (say 1 to 10 like I read for cleaning glass tanks)? Also how long should I soak it in vinegar? wayne

Have a question. What is needed to prepare, keep, cure live rock now for future use? I would like to have available a large quality of active live rock to use when I'm able to set up my 120g and hopefully avoid some of the headaches involved with algae, nitrate/nitrites, etc. problems that I had when I set up my 29g bio. Also still have the holy rock that was the cause of the 29g crashing the first time. I like the shape of it and hope to use it in the 120. What can I do to deaden it to get rid of the algae spore (?) and recure it? I realize it will probably be best to isolate it initially. thanks, wayne

I also agree that it is easier or at least as easy to mix 40 gal of saltwater as it is to mix 4 gal. I've gone thru the same pros and cons and decided that I needed to get a RO/DI unit. The time and gas money involved alone with mixing 10 - 4 gal containers vs one 40 gal container would more then pay for the RO/DI unit in a couple of months, not to mention the salinity consistency of mixing a large batch of your own saltwater Note: the reason I quote 4 gal instead of the 5 gal a container holds is that 4 gallons is a lot easier for me to lift and carry plus it provides a gallon of space to add RO water if I miscalulate a bit on the amount of salt I added, so as to bring the salinity down. On the con side: initial outlay of funds for larger containers, heater, pump, etc. wayneb

Have to add my thanks from both the wife and I. We enjoyed it and look forward to the next one. Thanks, Wayne and Lynn

PM sent. wayneb