Help with new saltwater setup

wake49

Very Good.

Make sure that you have one or two of the powerheads kind of low, pointing a little upwards. This will keep detritus off the substrate, and hopefully keep it in the column long enough to be absorbed into the skimmer.

NC Frank

I will ask for assistance with placement once I have everything I need to get started.

I just have to pull the trigger on that protein skimmer and I should be good to do.

NC Frank

Would this be a decent protein skimmer?

Amazon.com: ViaAqua Multi-Skimmer Deluxe w/ 5W UV Sterilizer: Home & Garden

Pasfur

Looking at the design and reading some online reviews, I am convinced this skimmer is a waste of your money. I have used both the Prism and Skilter, which have similar features to aspects of the venturi and skimming chamber design. Both of these units are horrible, and I believe the ViaAqua would be equally poor.

I have no doubt that the Coralife would far outperform the unit you have listed, and do so for 1/2 the price. You could use the saved money to buy a separate UV, if that is your concern.

NC Frank

One final one... I have been told that a lot of people use this one:

AquaC Remora Pro Hang-On Protein Skimmer

NC Frank

Anybody have any input on the AquaC Remora Pro Hang-On?

wake49

I used the Coralife 65 Needle Wheel Super Skimmer on my 46 gallon bow for quite a while and was happy with its production.

I have never used the Aqua C Remora, but I have heard good things.

NC Frank

If I use the Needle Wheel what can I do for chem. filtering?

Pasfur

The Aqua C Remora has a great reputation, but I also have no personal experience.

Chemical filtration is not a requirement, but can be used in almost any method. I just throw a bag of carbon in my sump, or in your case inside any hang on filter. You could just use any old hang on, such as a Whisper, and throw a bag of carbon inside.

NC Frank

Should I use just carbon or should I use the whisper (or any brand I get) cartridge with the floss?