Red Sea Reefer 250 | Setting up the tank | Installing the Plumbing

[@dhender02]

Great vid and tutorial! I'm getting back into the hobby after being out for over 20+ years. Plan on setting up a 250g tank in my basement next year. Since things have changed so drastically, I'm going to get a 170 Reefer to setup in my bedroom to get familiar with the new technology. After several weeks of searching of for an easy to understand guide on Reefer plumbing, I've found it!!! Great vid. Your pace of explaining everything was PERFECT!!! Because of easy to understand video, I feel much better about my ability to setup a new Reefer tank! I'm going to watch your other videos too. Again, GREAT video!!

[@pelphrey]

Thanks for stopping by! I am glad this was helpful, I have no doubt you'll be very happy with any of the reefer series tanks. The plumbing on these tanks are unlike any other setup. It literally is a plug and play setup. You'll spend more time on the perfect return pump and skimmer than you will the plumbing! I've been running my tank since November and I've only had to adjust the drain gate valve maybe 2-3 times. The gate valve is what keeps the system 100% silent. Please let me know if you have any questions, congrats on getting back in!!!!

[@Selahsmuzik]

I just came from my LFS and I’m getting this tank after my wedding this August. You have awesome videos! Thank you for sharing! I subscribed

[@pelphrey]

Congratulations on the wedding!!! Thanks for following along!

[@Selahsmuzik]

NP! You have a lot of great information.

[@MrBigTexFyre]

Liked your video. Red Sea has changed the plumbing up a little but they’re still awesome tanks.

[@pelphrey]

Yeah, they've changed it up some. This was their first version of the tank!

[@MichellesMermaidRoom]

I wish I would have had time to research and watch all of your videos before I had to move all of my reef into my Redsea during an emergency situation. I thank you for all the great detailed information of every aspect of this aquarium set up. I am currently waiting for my husband to hard plumb my tank to look more like yours. A bit more of a problem after it's been thrown together during an emergency and my demand to get my animals out of the brute cans. So, THANK YOU!!!!

[@pelphrey]

Emergency are never any fun, glad you were able to get it setup and move over everything! It shouldn't be difficult to change out the plumbing on your system since you have a little more room than I do in the 250. I tried to plan it out the best that I could and thought I was on track, I have since changed my hard plumbing on the tank. Mainly because I won't need all of the ports for equipment. The good thing about a small cabinet is I save money because I can't fit much in there. I do plan to re-work my return line and still incorporate a manifold, it will just be on a smaller scale. As always thanks for watching and I look forward to your future updates!

[@chrissabella9287]

everything looks like its going great! the back "silencer" tube that goes onto the main drain is acually a device that will draw water from the bottom of the pipe opposed to surface skimming. I was so surprised and figured this out from after a year of not cleaning my overflow, found absolutely no detritus in the chamber. anywho, enjoy the tank! btw its sabellafellaaa from r2r

[@pelphrey]

+Chris Sabella Thanks for the information, now I have the "technical" term! Also great news to know it pulls water from the bottom, seems like Red Sea just keeps impressing me. VERY glad this is the route i went! You signed up to be a parent member on reef2reef yet?

[@chrissabella9287]

haha not yet bud, love the yellow banner, havnt realised theyve done the partner member drive untill mods sent a message. hopefully, maybe youll wind this year!

[@Partsocaster]

Good video. A good idea also is to cut that emergency drain so that it is high above the water level in the sump. That way it makes a very noticeable splashing sound when it's in use, and lets you know there's a problem. I did this to mine.

[@pelphrey]

Great tip! It is always best practice to have these fails safes in place to help protect our investment and homes. Thanks for the advice!

[@77blacktrip]

Great video! I just bought this tank yesterday I'm just waiting for it to arrive so I can get it set up!

[@pelphrey]

Did you get the tank setup yet??

[@77blacktrip]

pelphrey I'm building it now, worst part is it's going where my current tank is, so I have to pull that one apart move it and put it back together to put the new one in place. Hoping to do that today...

[@lennard9903]

Great video! Helps me alot for the my new (the same) tank! Enjoy the hobby!

[@pelphrey]

Glad it helped, that’s what this is here for! Sumps can be hard to understand, but once you know you cannot not know! Hahaha happy Reefing!!

[@dwsdarius]

Awesome video...if I ever upgrade my reef I may go in this direction; its like a simple way to go high-tech

[@pelphrey]

+dwsdarius that's exactly how this series of tanks were made. It's super easy to setup and comes with everything really needed. From there you can go as cheap or expensive as you want. I'm really sold on it!

[@joseCalderon1976]

I swear I'm just as excited as you are for this setup 😂

[@pelphrey]

I should have some goodies on my porch when I get home today! I'm patiently waiting to get water in it!

[@ReefingwithO]

Hey Pelphrey I know this is an old video but I need help tightening the plumbing and the manual was no help. Your video definitely helped.

[@pelphrey]

Thanks for stopping by as always O! You swap out more plumbing?

[@ReefingwithO]

pelphrey I created a manifold and plumbed the anemone tank into the main tank.

[@pelphrey]

Forgot about that tank!! Video soon?

[@chinoskiipaganchinoskii145]

Great video Man About to setup my 250 aswell cheers

[@pelphrey]

That is awesome, I am sure you will love it!!!

[@77blacktrip]

My reefer 250 is up and running! Had a few problems though, first my skimmer went crazy for about 2 weeks after I added caribsea life rock, then I had an algae outbreak as my parameters were out, then I got a case of white spot probably due to stress of dosing to get them in order! But I will post a short video soon for you to check out..

[@pelphrey]

Awesome, I'll have to take a look at it! Thanks for stopping by!

[@akatonyh]

Excellent video!!!!! :D and very well set up pluming explained.

[@pelphrey]

Thank you!

[@dennisfernandez5533]

Thank you for the video! Saved my ass, bought a used 350 and this definitely helped.

[@pelphrey]

+Dennis Fernandez glad I could help!! It's really simple once you understand the Herbie drain. You get a good deal on the tank? Would have loved to have the 4' Reefer. They are all beautiful tanks!

[@dennisfernandez5533]

pelphrey got it for $900 used for a year. Will check out your other vids for plumbing, digging the blue pvc on the other one. What is the purpose of all the angles from the return pump to the return hose? Thanks in advance

[@pelphrey]

That is an awesome deal!!!! A deal like that doesn't come around very often. My original goal was to build a manifold off that plumbing with gate valves to run reactors. I've since cut that out and I am redoing it all. The new version will be much more efficient!

[@walsham10]

Excellent and informative helped me set mine up thanks fella

[@pelphrey]

Super glad to help out, enjoy your tank!!!!

[@DirectAim]

Great video, clearly explained. Much appreciated thank you

[@pelphrey]

Thank you!!!

[@joseCalderon1976]

I'm almost certain that this will be my next tank some day

[@pelphrey]

I did a lot of research and I kept coming back to this tank. I haven't second guessed that decision once!

[@joseCalderon1976]

Good progress bud!

[@pelphrey]

Thanks! A few steps closer!

[@streetgliude07]

just put my new used 250 together had a real hard time keeping main return from leaking ended up using tape and silicone

[@pelphrey]

I had a leak develop on my return line at the bottom of the tank just last weekend after the tank has been setup for months. I drained the overflow box and pulled the return stand pipe to inspect the o ring. Everything looked good so I put it back in, the leak slowed down a lot and eventually stopped. Just keep an eye on it, and I hope you get it resolved. I would enter a ticket on the red sea website just for reference, this will also help them in the future to correct any issues.

[@lazart8742]

Just got mine. Different set up. It now has a refugium ready sump and the drain is towards the front of the sump. Not using the fuge area, though. Setting up a stand alone refugium.

[@pelphrey]

Awesome! I read somewhere that they changed the sump design. Always great when companies expand on their existing product line to make it better!

[@lazart8742]

Just saw your post regarding the Vortech pumps. I have 2 MP10WQD that I was thinking of using, probably at the back wall of the tank. Are you saying the magnet will not hold? Should I sell them and go with one MP40WQD?

[@pelphrey]

Some people were able to make mp10’s work on the side. I didn’t have luck. They may work on the back since the glass on the back isn’t as thick. Depending on coral selection you’ll probably end up with an mp40 before it’s over! Haha I’m running two maxspect 230’s now.

[@lazart8742]

Thanks for the input. Subscribed and Happy Reefing!

[@NapFloridian]

THIS IS THE VIDEO Many have been waiting for, a video showing the parts and how to set up the tank. I have seen some TECHNO Setup video where the music overpowered everything but nothing was explained, I have seen some others where nobody said anything about the return pump requirements for the 250 and the list of bad videos goes on and one... this one is AWESOME

[@pelphrey]

Thank you! That is what I wanted to accomplish, I really wish I could have made the video shorter. I just didn't feel like cutting any corners and wanted it to be a complete setup!

[@kevingaeta9904]

pelphrey You saves me big time. I set my 750 XXL. Didn’t screw in the 3 drains on top until I watched this video. Good thing I have not filled it up yet. Thank you! Thumbs up for sure!

[@2019freddie]

so what size is the return pump??

[@TheDaveyd29]

great vid, cheers bud. Best ive found on here. Cant wait for my new 250 :)

[@pelphrey]

Thanks!!! When are you getting your 250?

[@TheDaveyd29]

@@pelphrey Star of Feb, its going to be my 40th birthday present. Crazy. Brilliant vid mate, couldn't have made it clearer install wise. Going through rest of your vids now :)

[@carlosfuentes5025]

Your video was very useful, thanks!

[@pelphrey]

Thanks!!!

[@jwlee1059]

Excellent video. Well explained.

[@pelphrey]

Thank you very much!

[@420skidrow]

i finall understand the system pretty well now!

[@pelphrey]

+420skidrow glad I could help out!!

[@cacocorrea1]

how about the top-up ? include an integrated unit of automatic water for evaporation (top-up), ensuring a steady, steady water flow throughout the entire system. the RO water

[@pelphrey]

I’m not sure I understand your question? I’m using the Tunze 3155 auto top off with a 10 gallon container.

[@polievets1]

Thanks for the video, nice effort very informative

[@pelphrey]

Thanks for stopping by, hopefully it helped!

[@RonoTron01]

Thanks for the video. Do you recommend getting this for a freshwater aquarium?

[@pelphrey]

I wouldn't hesitate to setup this tank freshwater at all!!

[@DJ_LittlePea]

It's getting there and looking great 🤗🤗🤗

[@pelphrey]

One day at a time! Hopefully can make some time this weekend to work on a few things!

[@DJ_LittlePea]

Looking forward to it 🤗

[@belessobvious7808]

Great video. I watch your other videos so I felt I got to see your complete build 👍🏽. I left the hobby and I’m considering coming back and purchasing a Red Sea aquarium. Just question. How are you controlling the temperature of your water I don’t see a heater or chiller .

[@pelphrey]

I use an ink bird temp controller!

[@alyindermuhle]

Great information! Thank you. 👍😀👍

[@pelphrey]

My pleasure!!

[@SalahJawad]

Hi Pelphrey Thanks for sharing the video. Its really informative. I do not have the red sea but was wondering about the outer pipe for the main drain. I was thinking to buy it and put it in my weir box and adjust the height of the pipe. What do you think, will it work? Thanks in advanced

[@pelphrey]

I'm sorry, I am not sure I understand?

[@joseCalderon1976]

What light are you going to use on this beauty bud?

[@pelphrey]

Starting off two kessil A160's. If I need to I'll add a third 160 or get a 360 for the tank.

[@joseCalderon1976]

Awesome. I already have a 4 bulb 24 inch ATI T5 fixture and would also use two Kessil A160we's. The T5 would only be used for like 3 hours of the day as supplement light like I'm doing right now. That's what I'll probably do when I get a tank like yours.

[@pelphrey]

I looked at a 36" ati fixture, it may be something I look into later down the road. I love the low profile of the kessils and I'm not sure I want a large fixture over the tank. Now with that being said, I may change my mind next week! That is how this hobby goes, isn't it? haha

[@joshhumphrey4531]

I’m looking at doing this reefer 250 but was trying to fined out if it comes with the skimmer and return pump when buying it for 2g here in Canada.

[@pelphrey]

Sorry I can't answer that. I've had this tank for about 5 years now!

[@santik1]

helped so much

[@pelphrey]

Enjoy the tank!!!

[@joseCalderon1976]

Hey bud, what skimmer are you going to to use on this beauty?

[@pelphrey]

Honestly haven't decided yet, but I have a pretty good idea. That will be a surprise!

[@greetingsearthlingspluto6666]

It’s Herbie the Love Bug man!

[@collegekids15]

Pelphrey loving the videos man. What did you use here for the return pump? I can't find a Barb hose connection that fits. I have the sicce syncra 2.0, I'm looking for a 5/8 x 3/4. Looks like you made a different attachment.

[@pelphrey]

I used the Reef Octopus VarioS6 initially. I am now using the neptune COR20. I have 1" PVC coming off the pump and into a TEE for a manifold. I am using a 1/2" barb and a small piece of soft tubing to connect to the reefer return barb. If that makes any sense?

[@collegekids15]

Awesome, that does make sense. I'm not that experienced with plumbing but this should work. Appreciate the response.

[@johnmarkzimm]

Will there be a refugium in the sump? And is the space next to to sump for ro/di top off water?

[@pelphrey]

+John Zimm Red Sea made the space to the right for a chiller. I'll be using it for RODI water initially. At some point I want to get that container out of the stand for more room. This tank comes with the ATO container, it sits above the filter socks. If I do a fuge the ATO container will be converted to a fuge!

[@carlosreefer7937]

Quick question the return pump hose did u buy it along with the clip or did it come with the tank

[@pelphrey]

+Carlos Perez the green hose came with the tank.

[@KATravels91]

Great video. I am setting up reefer 350 but ran into an issue with the return pump tubing. It doesn't fit the return pump valve. I have jebao 6000 DCP. Any suggestions on how to fix it ? Thx.

[@pelphrey]

I'm not sure what the output size is on that pump, you'll probably have to reduce it down. You can either order the parts online or take your pump to the local hardware store and start piecing these together. You'll need a fitting that connects to the pump, from there reduce it down to the size of the soft tubing. In my case the Reefer 250 soft tubing size works with a 1/2" barb. Reducer - www.bulkreefsupply.com/schedule-80-reducing-bushing-slip-x-slip.html Barb - www.bulkreefsupply.com/gray-male-pipe-adapter-spigot-x-barb.html Hope that helps!

[@KATravels91]

Sorry its DCP 6500. The output is 1 1/2 inch. I thinking I need a female adapter to reduce it and then probably use a slip to reduce further. I will try it out in the local HW store. Thx for the quick response.

[@pelphrey]

You'll probably have to find an adapter to fit the pump, then reduce the 1 1/2" from there. That would be my guess anyway. My pump is 1 1/2" I reduced it to 1" out of the pump with the supplied fittings (Reef Octopus) ran 1" pvc and reduced it down to 1/2" for the soft tubing on my reefer.

[@915Mang]

This tank is really nice, great choice. I wish they made a bigger tank then a 90g. Who needs instructions, lol

[@pelphrey]

+915Mang The reefer 350 is around 75 gallons I believe!

[@EvanXDev]

They make a 200 gal...

[@abelvazquez6012]

Any issues with the MDF cabinet not holding up?

[@pelphrey]

None, I had the tank running for I think 5 years. Never had any issues with it.

[@jzy0104]

Do you need to put teflon tape on the joint threads?

[@pelphrey]

You do not have to use tape.

[@jackiekearney]

I connected all my plumping from behind before I push back my tank close to the wall.

[@pelphrey]

This is a good idea! Thanks for sharing!

[@jackiekearney]

but I am worried that my floor will not hold my tank, i place it on our second floor by the wall and under neat it we have closet and i hope it's strong enough.

[@pelphrey]

That's a tough question to answer. It really depends on which direction the supports are running on the floor. You're looking at a good 1300-1400 pounds. If there is concern an engineer would be who I would get in touch with!

[@jackiekearney]

I am hoping you will says its ok. Lol thank you.

[@pelphrey]

Unfortunately I'm not qualified to answer this question, even if I was looking at it!

[@estebanjc1]

Do you starter the tank with all dead or Rock and sand live ?, which is your opinion ? Tanks

[@pelphrey]

I have always started with dry dead rock. I don't have any experience with live rock!

[@estebanjc1]

@@pelphrey ok. ok. thanks.

[@pelphrey]

If I had to do live rock I’d look at Tampa bay salt water. It’s expensive but from what I’ve read awesome rock and sand

[@estebanjc1]

@@pelphrey I thinking put rock live and dead sand. in one 300 XL. 15 kg of rock and 10 kg of sand. and one Vectra L1 to return water. Thanks for answer to me.

[@sam-sl4lb]

Great video, future tip just get straight to the point.

[@pelphrey]

Thanks! I’ll talk even longer on the next one!

[@Fit-HubIO]

Nice!

[@pelphrey]

Thanks!!!

[@JeanEstevez]

I have this tank and im setting it up my issue is the emergency drain is actually lower than the main drain so water is actually going to drain in the emergency one instead of the main one can anyone help me

[@pelphrey]

That is strange, the main drain actually has a piece that goes over top of it. Or mine did, I have the first version of the tank. Can you get on reef2reef and post pictures of your overflow box here ( www.reef2reef.com/threads/show-off-and-discuss-your-red-sea-reefer-series.219309/ )?

[@duppy666.]

I just hate the sumps on these tanks, I need a refugium!

[@pelphrey]

You hit the nail on the head! The synergy reef triton 26 Sump fits under the reefer 250, you then have to sacrifice ATO container size. A 5 gallon can fit, I prefer 8+ gallons. When I go on vacation I don’t want or need to depend on anyone.

[@duppy666.]

pelphrey thanks for the info, I'll look into that because I can always set up an external ato reservoir if I need to. I'm just looking in to getting a new system and it's between this and the evolution aqua reef900s, and the refugium is a big deal for me so thanks and nice vid.

[@pelphrey]

www.oceansbydesign.com/red-sea-replacement-sumps/ Check out these sumps also!

[@duppy666.]

pelphrey will do thanks m8.

[@Floridacop911]

65 gallon

[@pelphrey]

????

[@ripperhawk2010]

525xl is 130g

[@pelphrey]

I wish I had that system!

[@MrCarlako]

Ado not move that drain into the return 👎🏻👎🏻👎🏻👎🏻👎🏻

[@MrCarlako]

When you fill it that overflow will always drain water down it, if you look at the top it's slightly lower than the main drain so with constant water draining through it, so if you put it straight to your return you wont have maximum filtration of your water.

[@pelphrey]

This makes sense, I have not filled the tank up yet so I was not sure where the water level will be. Someone did mention that the tubing that goes over the primary drain pulls water from the bottom up into the primary drain. It was my understanding that the emergency drain would be kept dry unless activated. Thanks for better explaining!

[@MrCarlako]

No worries hope it helps, I've had my reefer 250 up and running for 5 months now it's a very quiet tank once you've fiddled with that valve to get it just right. 👍🏻🐠

[@pelphrey]

That helps a lot! Thanks again! When are you going to get some video of it?

[@MrCarlako]

I should really maybe in the future, not sure many people around the world will understand my scouse accent (Liverpool ). Looking forward to seeing your future videos of the tank.

[@iJonel]

Way too long of explanation for a simple easy to setup tank. 👎

[@pelphrey]

Way too long of a comment for a simple thumbs down.

[@MaGoSaNx]

@iJonel why are you being a B*. Be thankful for the guys time and effort teaching folks, not everyone is as Einstein as you are!