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Setting up a budget coral tank
Posted: Sun Aug 10, 2025 11:52 am
by Shadowg
I'm trying to set up a budget coral tank, around 20 gallons. What's the bare minimum I need to keep them alive without breaking the bank? I've got a basic LED light and a HOB filter, but I'm worried about water quality.
Re: Setting up a budget coral tank
Posted: Sun Aug 10, 2025 12:55 pm
by Squishy
For a 20-gallon tank, you'll need to focus on stability. A HOB filter is fine, but add a small powerhead for flow. Test kits are non-negotiable, ammonia, nitrite, nitrate, pH, and alkalinity. Skip the fancy salt mix, Instant Ocean works. Keep lighting simple, 8-10 hours daily.
Re: Setting up a budget coral tank
Posted: Sun Aug 10, 2025 1:18 pm
by hookedon
Yep, Squishy's got it right. Stability is key. I'd add that you can save cash by buying frags instead of full colonies. Start with hardy stuff like Zoanthids or Mushrooms. They're chill and won't freak out if your params aren't perfect.
Re: Setting up a budget coral tank
Posted: Sun Aug 10, 2025 3:15 pm
by Boldy
Don't skimp on the heater, though. A cheap one can fry your tank. I learned that the hard way. Get a reliable 50-watt, set it at 78. And yeah, test kits are a must. You can't fix what you don't measure.
Re: Setting up a budget coral tank
Posted: Sun Aug 10, 2025 3:42 pm
by gurer
Squishy wrote: ↑Sun Aug 10, 2025 12:55 pm
For a 20-gallon tank, you'll need to focus on stability. A HOB filter is fine, but add a small powerhead for flow. Test kits are non-negotiable, ammonia, nitrite, nitrate, pH, and alkalinity. Skip the fancy salt mix, Instant Ocean works. Keep lighting simple, 8-10 hours daily.
Agreed on the salt mix. I've used Instant Ocean for years, no issues. Just make sure you mix it well before adding to the tank.
Re: Setting up a budget coral tank
Posted: Sun Aug 10, 2025 5:03 pm
by dunam
If you're really tight on cash, check local reef clubs. Folks often sell used gear for cheap. Got my powerhead for $10. Just clean it well before using. And yeah, start with soft corals. They're forgiving.
Re: Setting up a budget coral tank
Posted: Sun Aug 10, 2025 6:07 pm
by Shadowg
Thanks for the advice, everyone. I'll grab a powerhead and test kits first. Any recommendations for a budget-friendly powerhead?
Re: Setting up a budget coral tank
Posted: Sun Aug 10, 2025 7:12 pm
by Squishy
The Hydor Koralia Nano is solid and affordable. Around $30 new, less used. It's got decent flow for a 20-gallon. Just avoid the super cheap no-name brands. They tend to die fast or have sketchy wiring.
Re: Setting up a budget coral tank
Posted: Sun Aug 10, 2025 7:39 pm
by armorguy
I've got a question. How often should I do water changes in a tank like this? I've heard mixed things.
Re: Setting up a budget coral tank
Posted: Sun Aug 10, 2025 8:10 pm
by hookedon
Squishy wrote: ↑Sun Aug 10, 2025 7:12 pm
The Hydor Koralia Nano is solid and affordable. Around $30 new, less used. It's got decent flow for a 20-gallon. Just avoid the super cheap no-name brands. They tend to die fast or have sketchy wiring.
Yep, that's the one I use. For water changes, start with 10% weekly. If your nitrates stay low, you can stretch it to every other week. But test, don't guess.