Filtration, FOWLR   10/20/07
Hello all, great website as usual, I have a quick question about my tank. It is a 125 gallon FOWLR and I used to have crushed coral and a UGF on it. As per our conversations, I pulled the CC and UGF plates and switched over to live sand successfully with no livestock loss. I used to have two Fluvals, but one of them stopped working. I used a single Fluval 403 with all the media removed and filled with live rock rubble. My question is this. Should I spend money on a Nu clear canister filter, or an Aqua C Remora Pro?
<Definitely the latter over the former>
Which will provide me more benefit? I am planning on both eventually, but which one would you recommend first?
<... the skimmer. I would not buy/use another canister filter here... I would place a sump, refugium if you have the room, inclination...>
I appreciate your quick response as usual, but need to know this as I am supposed to meet a guy later tonight or tomorrow morning to buy his Nu Clear filter. Any insight you can give me would be much appreciated.
Douglas M. Payne Jr.
<Bob Fenner>

Re: Filtration FOWLR  – 10/20/07
Awesome, that’s what I was thinking actually. Don’t know why I got on the canister filter kick. Is it acceptable to use a closed loop system with suction and return instead of overflows with the sump???
<Absolutely! Please take a look at http://www.wetwebmedia.com/marsetupindex2.htm and browse through the section entitled ‘Circulation, Pumps, Aeration’ – Brian Griffin >

Filtration For 55-Gallon FOWLR – 09/10/07
Good Day,
<<Hello>>
I have a 55gal saltwater FOWLR tank. Currently there is about 25 lbs of live rock, 1-inch of sugar-fine sand, a Whisper 60 filter, a Berlin Airlift 60 protein skimmer, and an Aquaclear 70 powerhead.
<<Hmmm...equipment/filtration choices could be better, and there is need for more/better water movement here>>
For fish, I have two 1-inch Yellow Tailed Damsels. I plan on removing the 2 damsels and placing them into a separate tank. I would like to slowly add a Saddle Puffer, a Blenny (either Bicolor or Lawnmower), a smaller butterfly (not sure which yet..
will research) and a smaller Mono (that has been slowly acclimated to full
marine conditions and will be moved to a larger tank within 2 years).
<<A few comments... The Mono is a true marine fish and always best kept in full-strength marine systems...and yes, will need a bigger tank than you have now. A Butterfly may work out, but a swift and agile Dwarf Angel species may do better as the Toby is likely to get “nippy”... Centropyge loricula gets my vote. And obviously, you are going to need to augment/get better filtration>>
I have a few questions.
<<Okay>>
First, it's about my protein skimmer. There are 2 sizes of wooden air stones. The smaller size fits in the tubing but doesn't produce nearly enough bubbles, while the larger sized produces enough bubbles, but doesn't fit in the tubing, and the air goes up both chambers.
I've tried taking out one level of the tubing but it doesn't seem to work that well. My air pump is older but I've checked for any kinks in the tubing and I'm sure it's working fine. It's a large sized pump. Any suggestions to remedy the air-problem?
<<This sounds like a result of poor engineering/design re the Berlin skimmer. You could try carving “custom” air stones from Basswood (can be found at most “hobby” stores) to maximize available space, but your time/effort/monies would be better spent upgrading from this less than adequate skimmer. My suggestion for your current setup would be the AquaC Remora or Remora-Pro>>
Second, I would like to add a second filter to increase the anticipated filtration needed with the added livestock.
<<Indeed>>
I have read many articles, and it seems like the Aquaclear 50 or 70 would be preferred over adding a second Whisper 60 filter, but I'm not sure.
<<Maybe...but like the Whisper filter it will require diligent care to prevent buildup/decomposition of nitrogenous waste while providing little in the way of biological filtration. I think you would be better served with a fluidized-bed filter as these don’t accumulate detritus like the other filters and are able to “ramp up” quickly with changing bio-loads>>
I have a smaller tank setup with an Aquaclear, and like the functionality as well as the options for filtration. Should I bother adding another filter?
<<I think some additional biological filtration will be needed/have benefit, yes>>
If so, should I add the Aquaclear or the Whisper (or any other suggested filter?)
<<The fluidized-bed filter...as stated>>
Third, if I do add the Aquaclear, should I keep the 3 stages of filtration as is, or would trying "3 stages" of activated carbon work?
<<Mmm, yes...if you go with this type filter, carbon and Poly-Filter will serve better than merely “trapping” particulates with a mechanical filter material>>
Thank you (all) for the incredible amount of knowledge and information I've gained through this site!!!!
Eric
<<We’re all quite happy to share. Do also consider adding a sump for the additional water volume and space for ancillary equipment...as well as a vegetable refugium with DSB for organics/nitrate removal along with a slew of other benefits. Oh yeah...don’t forget to add more water movement in the display...the fish will appreciate it and the system as whole will benefit. Regards, EricR>>

Re: Filtration For 55-Gallon FOWLR – 09/10/07
Eric,
<<Eric>>
Thank you for the quick response.
<<Quite welcome>>
I've been around saltwater aquariums for only about 6 months or so, and my roommate (who introduced me to freshwater a year ago) has had freshwater for about 5 years...
<<Thank you for this...is always helpful to know the experience level of those I’m trying to assist so I can ascertain the depth of explanation required. And while we’re sharing...I set up my first fish-only marine system in 1977...began with freshwater keeping some years before this>>
and neither of us have really heard of Fluidized-Bed filters, even though I read WWM about 10 hours per week since the start of my saltwater tank...
<<I see...some helpful reading here (http://www.wetwebmedia.com/fluidbedfaqs.htm), as well as here for more general marine filtration (http://www.wetwebmedia.com/marine/setup/filtration/marineFiltr.htm). Do be sure to follow/read among the associated links in blue as well>>
So I will definitely read about them in WWM.
<<Ah...very good>>
In the meantime, can you make some quick suggestions as to a good brand (just like you did with the Skimmer?)
<<Mmm, not a lot of choices really...try a keyword search on the NET for QuickSand and/or Rainbow fluidized-bed filters>>
And if I get an excellent skimmer such as the ones mentioned below, will I
still need to add an additional filter, such as the Fluidized-Bed or Aquaclear/Whisper?
<<Maybe not...will depend much on your stocking level and species selection. But the fluidized-bed filter is a “good to have” device for a FOWLR tank that is fairly inexpensive and easy to install...worth doing anyway, in my opinion>>
I will definitely purchase more powerheads to increase water movement.
<<Excellent...do also read here (http://www.wetwebmedia.com/circmarart.htm)>>
I have also been thinking... (a lot about my stocking plan) I figure it's
better for the fish - stress, health (and my pocketbook) if I go very slowly
and plan out my fish purchases first.
<<I am much in agreement>>
But about the Centropyge loricula - (actually, I was leaning toward the Lemonpeel angel... as a consideration instead of the butterfly)
<<The Lemonpeel is a much more delicate species...definitely not for the novice/for this 55g system>>
Let's say I don't purchase the puffer, would the Chaetodon auriga be a more hardy addition than a pygmy angel?
<<This is a very good “aquarium suitable” species of butterfly...and I think this would be the better long-term solution for you/your tank over the Toby>>
I agree with you about the fin nipping of the puffer, and that's another area for research.
<<Indeed>>
Further, will the Mono be OK with the puffer?
<<Probably...for a time...is very quick>>
Do you foresee any issues with the pygmy angel or the butterfly? (He was my first fish, and is in full marine conditions now, but is a bit skittish, and VERY fast).
<<Will be okay as far as compatibility I think...but as you already know, the Mono needs a bigger tank>>
Thanks again for all the help.
Eric
<<Happy to assist. Eric Russell>>

R2: Filtration For 55-Gallon FOWLR – 09/12/07
Eric,
<<Eric>>
Once again, thanks for the help.
<<My pleasure>>
I've been reading about the fluidized-bed filters and I'm not really sold on it yet.
<Oh?>>
From what I've been reading, it looks like it's mostly for highly fluctuating bioloads and/or large tanks with heavy bioloads -- mostly in the beginning stages of cycling, correct?
<<Mmm...is not just for “the beginning stages.” And as for highly fluctuating bioloads...that is why I recommend them as this is a prevalent condition with heavily stocked systems and/or systems with messy feeders...both being very common to FO and FOWLR systems>>
Either way, I'll read more.
<<Okay>>
This is actually a pretty exciting time, as I'm reading and doing a lot of research about fish.
<<Excellent>>
I've probably seriously thought about a dozen different fish that I'd like to add.
<<Do feel free to bounce your choices off me once you get down to your short-list>>
I'm not sure yet.
<<And no need to rush it>>
As for the question about the skimmer, the reading I've done in regard to the skimmers suggests I should ditch the skimmer I currently have and upgrade to a better model.
<<Is my opinion as well>>
Luckily the skimmer came included with a great deal on a 30 gal tank I currently have set up, so it won't be much of a monetary loss.
<<I see>>
As for the skimmer, I'm thinking of an AquaC Remora hang on variety.
<<Is an excellent choice>>
Those are pretty expensive though. Are there sites that I could find those on for cheap? (Besides Ebay, Craigslist, etc.)
<<Hmm, not that I am aware...but the couple-hundred dollars spent on a quality skimmer for your system is cheap by comparison>>
Thanks again,
Eric
<<Regards, EricR>>

R3: Filtration For 55-Gallon FOWLR – 09/13/07
Eric,
<<Tis I, my friend>>
Thank you.
<<Welcome>>
That is MORE information to read and think about!
<<Yes>>
It's good though.
<<Indeed>>
And exciting.
<<Many wonders ahead...>>
I have a quick question.
<<Okay>>
I'm a HUGE fan of blennies, and I'm considering three different varieties. (I will only keep one in the tank) The first choice on my list is a Starry Blenny (Salarias ramosus).
<<Will require large amounts of algae in its diet>>
I love how they look and act.
<<Can be quite comical/entertaining to observe>>
There is one in the LFS that looks really healthy and has great coloration. However, I'm concerned over the fact that my tank is pretty new (most of the live rock was bought from another aquarist who took excellent care of it, and has a lot of Coralline algae, but it's only 25 lbs. (mostly small pieces, very porous stuff.) Will the Starry (or Lawnmower as
well, actually) feed on any vegetable diet I add to the tank, ex: Formula 2 or algae sheets/wafers, or will he tend to pass on added frozen foods and stick with only algae, etc. that already exists in the tank?
<<I have seen instances where these fish eat anything dropped in the tank...but is not the rule here. If you can train the Blenny to the alga products, great...if not, you can “culture” filamentous algae on small rocks (in a different vessel) to switch out form time to time to keep the Blenny fed.>>
My second choice would be a Bi-Color Blenny.
<<Should prove easier to feed/keep than the Salarias species>>
I have had these eat algae in the tank and have seen them eat the frozen food (Mysis, Formula 2, Krill, Plankton, ETC).
<<Indeed, will usually take to prepared foods quite well...in my experience>>
I like these as well, although not as much as the Starry. My third choice would be a Lawnmower Blenny.
<<Pretty much the same challenges/considerations/requirements as the Starry Blenny>>
Any thoughts on these?
<<Considering the size and “newness” of the tank, as well as your newness to the hobby...I think the Bicolor Blenny (or one of the other Ecsenius species) is the best choice for now>>
I do realize my choice may be limited by the other fish I add.
<<Yes>>
But I'm leaning toward either a Flame angel or a Butterfly, and a pair of False Perc's... (those are just considerations now, I will continue to plan). I don't think there should be much difference between the three I list in regard to compatibility with these fish, correct?
<<Should do fine with your proposed stocking plan, agreed>>
(I also don't plan on adding any corals or polyps to this tank either)
<<Other say differently, but I consider Blennies on the lesser reef/invert compatible fishes>>
Thanks again for your input!
Eric
<<Always happy to share. EricR>>

What do you think about this sump for a 180 - 210 gal FOWLR? ***  4/25/07 
http://futurepet.com/cgi-bin/FULLPRES.exe?PARTNUM=ACA794096*<http://futurepet.com/cgi-bin/FULLPRES.exe?PARTNUM=ACA794096>
<Looks like a nice, practical unit... I do like the first chambers filter sock (needs to be cleaned at least once a week... I'd have two... one to take out, clean, have drying... while the other's in service)... and use the sump area for placing a skimmer... Bob Fenner>

Replacing a Canister - Upgrade in Filtration For A FOWLR and Thanks - 10/17/2006
Thank you for the awesome resource of material that you provide to the general populations. I did search for the information, but I did not see anything that I could really use. I have a quick question for you today.
< No worries, we are here to help. >
I am toying with the removal of my canister from my tank. I have a Eheim 2026 in a 55G FOWLR, I have an Remora Pro with a Mag3 two 1200 and I am going to be putting in one Tunze 6060 this weekend, and I also have about 75 lbs of live rock. Could I do this without having a problem with spiking nitrogen or ammonia? 15% water change every other week and I clean the Eheim every week.
< Deja Vu! I did this with my Eheim 2017 on a 55g about 6 years ago. This should go fine if you remove about 25% of the media a week. You can leave the foam filters in until you have removed all of the ceramic media. >
Fish
2 - Clowns
1 - Blue Hippo
1 - Blue Angel
1 - Huma Huma
(Yes, the new tank is coming in early November)
< Hope it is 200g+! >
I have a question with this on sand. I am wanting to have live sand, but I have decided against a DSB. What is the best live and to purchase and do you know of where to purchase it?
< There is nothing wrong with buying dry sand since it will become "live" in a short time thanks to your live rock. You can ask your LFS or someone you know with an established healthy tank for a cup of sand to add to your fresh sand. If you just have to have a bag of "live sand" you can look online or at your LFS. You will get similar results from the many brands available. >
Again, Thank you for making this a thoroughly enjoyable hobby.
< You are most welcome and best of luck with your new tank! - Emerson >
Scot

Marine Filtration Equipment    4/16/06
I have a 30gal oceanic cube that I will be starting a FOWLR.
<Sounds fun.>
I have an Eheim 2217 Canister filter, or an emperor 400, (I have a Prism Skimmer, and about 20 pounds of live rock, and 40 pounds of live sand) that I would like to use, any problem with this?
<Well honestly, neither the canister nor the emperor HOT filter are great ways to filter marine aquaria and the skimmer you have selected is shall we say not up to par with the others in it’s class.  So not my choices, but can it me made to work? Possibly with proper and frequent maintenance.>
Is a canister filter a recipe for disaster?  
<If you use lots of detritus trapping media and don’t clean it out at leas 1 to 2 times a week, yes it will be a disaster in my experience.>
Or can it be used simply by changing the media inside.
<I would rather you use no media at all, just use the canister as a means of extra water flow, possibly utilize it at times to run carbon or phosphate media.>
I will have a few inverts, as well as clown fish with some soft corals.
<That makes it a reef not a FOWLR.>
A wet/dry seem to be amongst the opinion recommended by most,
<No for a reef tank a wet-dry is not recommended, my preference is an oversized skimmer a macro-algae refugium and LOTS of water flow.>
but I would like to use the equip I already have.
<Then you will be performing heavy maintenance including weekly waterchanges of AT LEAST 10%.>
Thank You
<Anytime.>
Matt
<Adam J.>
 

Filtration Selection  - 2/11/2006 Hey Gang, <Hey Chris>      I’m in the process of re-doing my 65 gallon (Tall) tank because of poor production, and I could use all the help you guys can send my way.  My tank will be a FOWLR.  I recently purchased a Turboflotor 1000 multi protein skimmer and have been driving myself crazy searching for a quality sump as well.  Lately, I have been second guessing my decision for the protein skimmer because of the semi-bad reviews other readers have e-mailed you about them.  So I found myself searching online again and ended up at Lifereef filter systems website.  Are you familiar with this company? <Yes.> They offer all different kinds of complete systems.  One of their models, the CLF1 caught my eye because it’s compact and comes with everything.  The CLF1 is for aquariums up to 150 gallons and includes: (1) Berlin-style sump & covers, (2) foam block & pad, (3) Lifereef VS2-24 (in-sump) venturi protein skimmer with Magdrive 9 pump, (4) a second Magdrive 9 pump for circulation, (5) all fittings, hoses, clamps, & (6) tapped holes for R/O water & calcium reactor.  This system costs $729.00 which seems a bit much, but what do you think? <Well you've got a 150 bucks in pumps alone and a decent skimmer is going to run 200+, so you have close to 400 bucks without firing a shot.  Not too bad.> Is this a quality product that is worth the money? <Very good product and excellent workmanship.  The choice is yours whether you want to spend the bucks.  For example, a CPR wet/dry capable of handling your tank is going to run about $180, no pumps, skimmer or hoses.> Should I return the Turboflotor and commit to the Lifereef CLF1? <For a turnkey system, it's not a bad price and it is a quality system.> If you are not familiar with this product I attached two pictures with this e-mail.  One picture is a diagram explaining how everything works and the other is a basic photo.  I would appreciate any opinions you can give me at this point.   I only have a couple more questions and then I’ll leave you guys alone.  Taking into account the importance to not overload aquariums what would be the maximum number of fish that I could have in my 65 gallon tank?  Also is it better to have a few big fish or a bunch of small fish dealing with their waste and water quality in the tank? <I've always liked the look with smaller fish in a system your size.  As far as a maximum number that all depends on the bulk of the fish not length.  I've always thought one cubic inch of fish per five gallons was a safe bet.  For example, three Chromis would not amount to one cubic inch.> Last question, With FOWLR tanks are there any special lighting needed for the live rock to survive, especially when I’m at a disadvantage with the tall setup? <Only if there are light loving inverts on the rock.>   Thanks for your help, <You're welcome.  James (Salty Dog)> Chris

Filtration For A Messy Crowd  11/21/05
Hello,
<Hi there! Scott F. with you today!>
I was wondering if this stocking plan and filtration was good for a 55 gallon (4ft. long) saltwater FOWLR tank:
AquaClear 70 HOB filter
Red Sea Prizm Skimmer
60lbs. Live Rock
40lbs. Live Sand
Fish:
1 Valentini Puffer (Toby)
1 Green Spotted Puffer (Started as FW then BW now SW)
1 Yellow Tang
And is this tank large enough to house all of these fish forever?
<In my opinion, no. These fish, although not very large, are producers of copious amounts of metabolic waste. A larger volume of water and more aggressive filtration is needed to help dilute the waste and provide more physical "space" for these fishes. I'd think about a larger tank down the line.>
And is this all the filtration I would need?
<While mechanical filtration is valuable with heavy metabolic-waste-producing fishes, you do need to make sure that you're getting lots of skimmate production from the Prizm, and that you're replacing the mechanical filtration media frequently. Also, be sure to perform regular water changes on this tank, and to be sure to utilize chemical filtration media (activated carbon/Poly Filter, etc.) regularly.>
I just want to have enough filtration...
Thanks, Mark
<Understood, Mark! If you adhere to conscientious maintenance practices, your filtration may be adequate. Good luck to you! Regards, Scott F.> 

Auxiliary Filtration Choices, FOWLR 10/15/05
Hello Bob and the rest of the WetWeb Crew!
<Hello!>
I'm looking to replace a filter which just emptied itself all over the floor. 
<Sorry to hear that.> 
I have a well established 55 gallon FOWLR with about 40 lbs of LR and a Remora skimmer. 
<Awesome skimmer.> 
I have a wrasse and 2 clowns. I need help deciding if I should buy an Eheim canister filter (or wet/dry) or if I should leave
it up to the skimmer and LR. I want to be sure that there is plenty of oxygen, water movement, and that the large amount of waste from the wrasse isn't all over the tank. Any suggestions? 
<Well to be honest I’m not a fan of canister filters on marine tanks. With the removal (breakage) of your current hang on filter I am guessing you have some room on the back of the tank? If so I would look into a hang on the back refugium. However, if you feel the need to get a canister filter then Eheim would be my choice but I would clean it weekly to avoid nutrient accumulation.> 
Also, I've never used a canister filter and have a question about installation. I don't want to do any drilling. I read in another post about an overflow box. Is this what I need? 
<No most canister filters have two hoses that hand over the side, one for intake the other for return. Very simple to use.> Thanks.  Sorry for asking questions that I could probably figure out by reading through more posts, but I'm very busy right now and I'm worried that by the time I can sit down and research, all the fish will be dead.
<Actually you have time to research with the amount of live rock you have and such an efficient skimmer as long as you keep up on water changes you will be fine.>
Thank you all!
<No trouble Adam J.>

Re: Auxiliary Filtration Choices, FOWLR 10/18/05
Adam,
<I’m here.>
Thanks for the quick reply to my question. 
<You’re welcome.> 
I have a follow-up question if you don't mind. 
<Not at all.> 
I initially considered a refugium, but dismissed that idea due to a lack of space as well as skill, 
<They don’t have to be big even a refugium of 2 or 3 gallons can work wonders.> 
so I like the idea of a hang-on, especially for algae control. 
<Yes they are efficient and simple to use.> 
I was looking at the CPR AquaFuge medium model that holds 3.6 gallons (Which is all I have room for). 
<It’s a great product.>
However, I read in another post that a refugium should be at least 15-20% of the tank size (3.6 gallons is about 7%). 
<This is simply a rule of thumb but honestly any refugium is better than none.> 
Will this along with the skimmer and LR, be effective, 
<Yes it will be effective, you may not see results immediately but in time you will.> 
or should I just buy another hang-on filter along with about 10 more lbs of LR?
<No definitely go for the ‘fuge.>
Thanks for your continuing help!
<Anytime, Adam J.> 

Filtration For A FOWLR - 10/04/05
First off I'd like to say how amazing your website is and how many tight binds it has gotten me out of.
<<Thank you...glad it has been useful.>>
I am in the process of purchasing equipment to get my new 135 gallon tank up and running.  Right now I have a 29 gallon FOWLR with a Marineland Bio Wheel 200 and a Bak Pak protein skimmer.  I know neither of these will be sufficient for my new tank and I don't really know if I should go with a wet/dry filter or a hang on back setup.
<<Likely you'll need the extra capacity of the wet/dry.>>
If I go the wet/dry route I want to do a ProClear 150 with a built in protein skimmer.
<<The "built in" protein skimmer is an issue in my eyes.  You really need to consider investing in a quality skimmer (Euroreef, ASM, AquaC, etc.) sized appropriately for the system.>>
If I go hang on back I want to run a pair of  Emperor 400s along with either a Turboflotor 1000 protein skimmer or a Coralife protein skimmer (the venturi or the needle wheel?).
<<Your choice...but not the route I would take.>>
I guess my questions are:  Which route would be the best (price is not a worry), and which of the protein skimmers for the hang on back set up would be better?
<<Of the two choices, the first...as outlined.  But if I may... I would consider outfitting a FOWLR with a large sump, a "quality" skimmer, and a fluidized bed filter (rather than the wet/dry), and some type of chemical media reactor for carbon/poly-filter.>>
Thank you so much for your help, I know this is a very confusing bunch of questions.  Keep up the good work.
<<Regards, EricR>>

FOWLR filtration questions
Date: Mon, 31 Jan 2005
I've been researching setting up a new FOWLR tank for a couple of weeks – WOW, is there a lot to learn but getting to the point where I can start making a list of kit but still have some questions on a suitable filter system. I’ve read a lot of the previous FAQ’s but none have quite answered my questions – yet.  
Ideally, I want a lower maintenance system to start with and would like to automate as much of the water change process as possible. I'd also like to keep it as tidy and simple as possible (can't risk leaks etc where this tank will go). I also want to keep the visible equipment in the tank to an absolute minimum. I'll be getting a tank custom made and drilled and building the cabinet myself.
Planned tank size will be something like 60"L x 20"W x 28"D (121 Imp Gal minus LR and other decoration I think?). I plan to keep a FOWLR setup with a few of the hardier inverts if possible (still more research to do yet though). Maybe, over time, I'll want to get more into a reef setup but want to start with FOWLR.
I've been looking at the Eheim filters and the 2128 or 2329 look quite good, both being wet/dry with heater built in. <Paul, these filters haven't been getting very good reviews from people I have talked to. I can't personally verify this as I've never saw one in operation.>
was also thinking about having a UV sterilizer 
<I personally wouldn't invest any money in a sterilizer, but use the money toward a very efficient skimmer.>
and skimmer. How would these be most effectively deployed and connected? 
<If you insist on the sterilizer it is best placed after a filtering zone in the system for the most effectiveness. The skimmer is actually opposite. The input water to the skimmer should come right from the overflow. Most aquarists place them in their wet/dry sumps which keeps it out of view.>
If I want to automate water changes, do I need a sump? Is there another way to do it? Should I just go for a sump with all the mess it entails? 
<The sumps serve a variety of purposes. You can place your skimmer, heater, ph probes etc. so nothing shows in your tank as you would like. I don't feel that the sumps are that messy. Some people will "hard pipe" the system together. As far as automated water changes I would probably use two identical dosing pumps, one to remove the water for a programmed time, and another to fill the system with your new water. On the later I would incorporate a float switch so when the level reaches a set point it would shut off the "fill" pump. Myself being a "controls installer" I would use a circuit with a couple miniature relays so that once the fill was complete, the fill dosing pump would not start again if the float switch was low unless it were given a command by an input device such as a pushbutton. Other than that, try posting this on the "chat forum" on the wet web media site. James (Salty Dog)>
Many thanks for such a stunning web site – I can’t believe you don’t charge for all this info.  Paul. 
<Thank you, it's strictly from the heart>

Filtration for a 90 gallon tank 
I have a 90 gallon tank that has been running for 7 months. I have about 70lbs of live rock, 1 damsel, 4 Chromis, 1 goby, crabs and snails. I have been using a Fluval 404. I have also been testing the water weekly to make sure everything is within range. I was told that for a fish and invert tank I should switch to a wet/dry filter and add a skimmer. I am confused about sumps, hang on skimmers and wet/dry filters. I know these things cost a lot of money and I want to make a wise purchase when I switch over. I have read quite a bit and I am still confused. Can you direct me on what I need to keep a healthy tank? Can you recommend the appropriate equipment and good brands? <Debbie, it is not absolutely necessary to have a wet/dry although they dramatically improve oxygen in the system and offer a place to put a skimmer. If I were to pick from the two (if money were an object), I would go with a good protein skimmer. They also help oxygenate the water while removing organic waste. Changing 10% of the water weekly aids in a healthy system by restoring lost trace elements and reducing nitrate/phosphate levels by means of dilution. I personally prefer the AquaC line of skimmers because they are about 98% hassle free. There are other good brands that also do an efficient job. Adding Chemi-Pure to your Fluval is also a good idea as it will remove some impurities a skimmer cannot and really improves the clarity of the water. Good luck, Debbie. James (Salty Dog)> 

Filtration for a 215 gal FOWLR tank
People,
<< Blundell today. >>
Love the site, but have some questions about my setup. I am purchasing an
Oceanic 215 RR Aquarium with stand and canopy for FO. The aquarium will have
internal overflows at both ends. I will not be adding corals at any stage. I
will also purchase either a Euro-reef CS12-1 or CS-12-2 skimmer. I want to
keep Emperor Angel, Clown Triggerfish, mostly those classes of fish. Here
are my questions; what type of filtration should I use for this set-up? << About 150 pounds of live rock, about 200 pounds of sand, and a 55 gal refugium. >> What
type of substrate in the aquarium? << I love crushed coral. >> How much live rock should be uses and any
preference? << No real preference.  I'd probably mix it up, but at least 150 pounds. >> I am planning on flow rates for the water at 20-times capacity.
I will treat diseases in a quarantine tank.
<< Don't forget a refugium. >>
Thanks,
Gary Gauthier
<<  Blundell  >>
& Durso stand pipe?
People,
One thing I forgot is I am also planning to use the Durso standpipes unless
you think this will hamper the flow rates.
<< Use them.  Everyone who has them seems to like them, so I guess they are worth it. >>
Thanks,
Gary Gauthier