Thanks for the feedback
aldiaz33
you reinforced a bit of the research I have done.
I was leaning towards 1 or 2 55 gallon drums. At this point I may as well keep things big and continue with the plan for 1 "polishing" barrel and 1 bio barrel.
I will have to look into the Laguna pumps. I was planning on 2 pumps for safety, like you mentioned, and had my eye on Super Dart/Snapper Gold Hybrid. I like the fact they back it with a 5 year warranty which means they have a bit of faith in that particular model. Also, my plan was for 2" plumbing to and from the tank; 2 in and 2 out. I found a chart that indicates 2" gravity drain will handle 2,200gph and, at 40-100psi 7,650gph.
Unless there are any strong reasons against, I was planning on using a thermostat in the aquarium to control a re-circulation pump tapped into the hot water line in the house. Using pex is guaranteed safe and I have read some mixed on using copper coils.
Humidity is one of my major concerns. I was looking into greenhouse panels and ensuring they seal fairly tight. I like the idea
spiff44
has with using a small fan to exhaust outside. The tank is right beside an outside wall so this would be a fairly easy design. I will also be painting the joists above the aquarium to help combat damage from humidity; just in case.
Hmm... I'll be putting the Silver Dollar's on the short list haha.
justarn
the Mbu Puffer might be a little too much for the aquarium. I would be concerned about it eating up all the little guys. I will be checking out Cichlid's a bit more. Either way, I do plan on having a "king of the tank" fish in there.
