75 Gallon toooo small. Moving up to 130 gallon half cylinder

[UofODuck]

#ed_op#DIV#ed_cl#75 Gallon toooo small. Moving up to 130 gallon half cylinder! Need help with new equipment. I have canister filters, and I have heard that sumps are the way to go. I am going to put a good chunk of money into this, so does anyone have suggestions for new equipment.#ed_op#/DIV#ed_cl##ed_op#DIV#ed_cl##ed_op#/DIV#ed_cl##ed_op#DIV#ed_cl#1. What is the best Sump? Where can I research this?#ed_op#/DIV#ed_cl##ed_op#DIV#ed_cl#2. Do I need Skimmers?#ed_op#/DIV#ed_cl##ed_op#DIV#ed_cl#3. What about a heater?#ed_op#/DIV#ed_cl##ed_op#DIV#ed_cl#4. What about a computer?#ed_op#/DIV#ed_cl##ed_op#DIV#ed_cl#5. I am going broke buying RO water from the fish store. Does anyone have suggestions on systems so that I can mix my own water.#ed_op#/DIV#ed_cl##ed_op#DIV#ed_cl#6. Are there any other gadgets of devices that would make my life easier. If you had a wish list, what would you buy?#ed_op#/DIV#ed_cl##ed_op#DIV#ed_cl##ed_op#/DIV#ed_cl##ed_op#DIV#ed_cl#Basically, I want the best. Please help!#ed_op#/DIV#ed_cl#

[dakar]

Welcome aboard!

Here's my versions for some answers... I'm sure others will jump in with their thoughts/suggestions.

1. Do a search on DIY sumps/regues here, you'll find tons of examples and info, then fire away with any specific questions.
2. Skimmer - They sure help!
3. Heaters - Most likely, a 300w may do it, two would be better as a failsafe.
4. Computer - What kind and what for?
5. RO/DI - search eBay for a seller named filterdirect, 6 stage RO/DI unit for $90, many of us use that unit. Throw in the extra $10 or so for the TDS meter and you'll be all set, pays for itself in a couple months or so.
6. Way too many to list, X10 Activehome system is next on the list to automate everything from lighting to powerheads. The rest like a calcium reactor and such I'm DIY'ing instead.