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Dear reefers, I would like to start a thread to share my experience of setting up an outdoor tank. When I was having this idea 5 months back (due to limited space to setup an indoor tank), I was searching thru cg for inputs and comments but there was limited thread on this topic. Hence hopefully this thread that I’m about to start will be helpful for anyone thinking about setting up an outdoor tank. It’s purely sharing of my experience, far from perfection comparing to any professionals [emoji5] My indoor 322 at old house I’ve a indoor 322 prior to moving to this new ground unit condo. For an outdoor tank, I would say be more patience is needed and do more planning. To no surprise, there are also additional external environmental considerations to take note on top of the usuals for indoor tanks. Hence “site survey” is the first thing to do before many other things. Find the most ideal location (there will not be a perfect spot and in some cases limited options) that’s well shielded from rain and sunshine. It’s important to take note sunrise/set and seasonal rainfall changes across the year (to some degree). Ideal spot on the left, Patio facing a great greenery view. Fortunately I’m able to identified an ideal spot after 2 months of observing (wet and dry) weather conditions. Next is to consider the max allowable space and hence tank size tanking into considerations of sun and rain exposure. For my case it fits a 422 before tank starts to fill up with rain water [emoji28]. When it comes to tank build quality vs cost, I’ll have to take some risk to compromise “popping” of cabinet laminate. Constructing an outdoor quality wooden cabinet of 2m x 1m x 60cm is beyond my budget (>S$2K). For those that can afford it, got for it [emoji5]. As a preventive measure (or at least delay the damage [emoji27]), I implemented the following to minimise the degradation impact. Disclaimer, I’m also experimenting this [emoji28] 1) Used 2mm polycarbonate sheet from Dama to shield the laminate from harmful uv from sun and potential rain splash. 2) Strengthen the joints by gluing aluminium L brackets to hopefully avoid “popping” (pardon the the scorch taps, too lazy to remove after dry up). Polycarbonate sheet that looks like normal transparent plastics. The dark brown joint it the L bracket. Look of the tank The other challenge will be AC power. Typical patio or balcony will not have many (or none) power points for heavy duty usage. For my case there is only one !! I’ve asked the electrician how much can this source... average +/- 1000W. Calculating the total amount of power, I’m really at the brink with all necessary equipment in. Contingency plan will be to tap on lighting power points (if available) to source for low power equipments. There are pros and cons of sunshine, while many might worry about algae and electricity bills.. it has its merit of natural sunlight mimic the real sea environment. For my case, it gets 3-4 hours of morning sun which is ideal where I don’t have to turn on my lights, offsetting some electricity bill. Morning sun shining into live stocks, growing well. You can see the background reflect of the sky on the right too [emoji5] If you have a water point at the outdoor area, perfect ! Then your wc will be a lot more simpler. For my case, I’ve a water point Arthur patio area that I’ve hooked up my RODI just beside the tank. Thanks quite a long intro [emoji28]. Thanks for reading so far and hope you find it useful thus far. Next update will touch more on the tank setup itself. Happy reefing Sent from Singapore Reef Club mobile app

The elusive Pom-Pom Crab. It ventured out this evening, seeking shelter beneath the Montipora Setosa.

I believe this Covid situation is control by MTI. You can try calling them or email them to ask how they control each business. Just my guess, no harm asking.

You’re most welcome! All the best for your piping! Remember to put more glue! [emoji1303] Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

I used to cut off this filter sock compartment to fit my clarisea sk-5000 but changed it back. Clarisea filter is good but it can’t hold large drainage flow. Once the flow is strong it will touch the float and used up the filter wool unnecessary. Not to my liking so I changed back to filter sock. Filter sock is cheap but tend to clot easily. It’s easy for me to pull it out and replace! [emoji1303] Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

This is my current sump design. Drainage will go thru filter sock —> (from bottom to top. Ensure my water will pass thru my medias) my medias —> filter wool —> compressor coil (locates behind my skimmer) —> skimmer & torq reactor (FM carbon & Rowaphos) —> black filter (trap bubbles or any big dirt from skimmer/reactor) —> return pump. [emoji1303] I design in a way where I want the water to go/flow to wherever I want. You can search on YouTube to get some inspiration too. Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

Thanks bro, you may get all your pipings from Hai Cheong Plastic located at both Ubi and Kallang. Do note that Ubi is not in operation during this phase 2 period. I always went over to Kallang and look for the young china guy. Very friendly and helpful. Just provide them the measurement and sizing they will get all for you. Pricing is very reasonable too. Good for those who wish to do their own pipings. [emoji1303] Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

Medium aka (standard) Retailing for $80 new

My sump finally done! [emoji1303] Got my acrylic from DAMA trading it cost me around $90/- This Goop silicon/glue is really effective. It glued the acrylic and glass perfectly. Thank you Leon for the recommendation! [emoji4] I used two of this. One cost around $11.90 at hardware city. I applied double layer to ensure it can hold the water pressure. Added two more new valve to control my drainage and M2 output. Hope with this valve it can tune the flow more silent. Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

now:

L50” x W 45” x H 50” with sump.

My second tank equipment list:- 1.IM SR89 IOS tank 2.Teco chiller 3.Jebao return pump 4.DD ATO 5.AI Hydra 64 6.RS Wave 45 6.IM IOS skimmer Sent from Singapore Reef Club mobile app