Filter what to get?

[donice]

Does anyone know about a, Odyssea refugium model 50 w/built in protein skimmer? I have a 60 gallon reef tank, have a fluval canister right now. Would this be better or what would for a reasonable price. I am getting a little bit of red algae. I feel I need a better filteration system.
Thanks
Donice

[Samper]

I don't know anything about this system so I can't comment on it. The cheapest route is usually to build a sump yourself and purchase a seperate skimmer and return pump. Take some measurements inside of your cabinet to determine what dimensions to work with. This is not an overly complicated task and we can guide you through it.

[donice]

Thank you Samper. Where would I get info. to start?

[Samper]

This site is a great place to start searching. If you enter sump into the search feature you can find some really good reads on the subject. Basically you will need an aquarium that will fit underneath of your cabinet. You will need to silicone a series of baffles into it creating three seperate chambers. The first chamber is for the skimmer. The water goes over under over to the refugium section. Following this is another series of baffles into the return pump compartment. Where you glue the baffles will depend on the skimmer you need to fit and the size of refugium that you need and the return pump. I space my baffles 1.5" apart and use GE type I silicone.

I think you would be pretty happy with an ASM G series skimmer and a Mag return pump. I recently switched out my mag pumps with GenX submersible pumps. I can't vouch for their long term use but the mags have given me some restart trouble after the power goes out. Please feel free to ask anything you need along the way.

[donice]

I just got a bigger canister filter and a BAKPAK bio-fillter. I haven't hooked it up yet can't wait . But think you for responding this site is great.

[Samper]

The canister filters work great for changing water or running carbon in but most of us don't run them on a reef tank. If it is not too late you might want to get your money back and go with another piece of equipment. I'm glad you enjoy the site.