ReefKeeping

Aquarium automatic is becoming more and more of a reality to the modern aquarist these days. One of the most common applications of tank automation are auto top of systems (AKA ATOs). These systems work to add freshwater to your aquarium as water evaporates. In saltwater tanks in particular, they are extremely valuable in maintaining stable salinity levels as salinity can swing as water evaporates and does not get replaced. In freshwater tanks, this will keep your water levels stable so your filtration can run optimally and so your tank doesn’t completely dry out.

Discussing the best reef salt mixes is always a passionate discussion among reefers and saltwater aquarists. Some people swear by one brand of salt mix while others will go out of their way to talk about why this salt mix brand is way better than others. The purpose of this post today is to just lay out the facts and finding what salt mix will work for you and your budget. I want to get around all the marketing fluff and just tell you what works for your tank and needs. So let’s get started.

Technology has gone a far way since I started in aquariums. Before, there were standard powerheads that would distribute a fixed flow and stream in your water column. Now you have these items called wavemakers that provide a wider and more powerful stream of water flow in your aquarium. A lot of manufacturers have entered the fray release their own wavemakers, but what is the best aquarium wavemaker? 

There are so many wavemakers out there and now there are DC powered wavemakers that have a ton of controllability. Which one is the right one for you? Today’s post hopefully will clear that all up for you in deciding what wavemaker will work best for your aquarium.

Today’s post is all about awareness and providing options that work for a reef keeper. I will go through what is important to know when purchasing an RODI system, and go through several RODI systems that work for aquariums. Let’s get started :).

One of the most important decisions you can make is choosing your sump system and selecting the best aquarium sump and refugium for you as well as connecting it with the best aquarium sump pump that you can buy. 

Let’s talk today about what is an aquarium sump, what is a refugium, and then let’s go over the best aquarium sumps available to purchase readily.

There are many overflow boxes out in the market, so what is the best overflow box? In today’s post I will go over the types of overflow boxes, hang-on vs. drilled overflow boxes, the best overflow boxes, hang on overflows boxes versus drilled overflow boxes, and how to install an overflow box on your aquarium.

Aquarium heaters are one of the more essential, yet more fail prone piece of equipment that you can add to your aquarium. The vast majority of us in the aquarium keeping hobby keep fish that require tropical temperatures so a heater is a must.

There are many heaters out on the market and it is very easy to just select a cheap aquarium heater and think you are good to go. The best aquarium heaters are not fail prone, built very well, and will heat your aquarium safety. I will go over the best aquarium heaters and also talk about glass vs titanium heaters. I will also talk about fail safes and how to prevent a tank disaster if a aquarium heater fails (and also what usually fails). Let’s get started!