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You are here: Home / The Ultimate Guide for Starting a Reef Tank

The Ultimate Guide for Starting a Reef Tank

Whether you’ve never owned an aquarium, or are just starting the transition from freshwater to saltwater tanks, there’s never been a more exciting time to dive into the watery world of reef aquariums. From advancements in tank setups, to the growing online communities dedicated to this beautiful hobby, millions of reef tank admirers are taking the leap from observer to full-blown aquarists.

Making the decision to branch out into this underwater world of vibrant colors and mysterious creatures is a monumental step. Regardless of why you’re interested in becoming an official Reefer, the benefits of running and maintaining your own slice of the ocean are universal.

However, to start enjoying the emotional and visual benefits of reef aquariums, you have to first start! Taking the first steps is always the hardest. What tank should you buy? How do you keep coral thriving? What about water parameters, algae growth and lighting?

Like many before you, getting started can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. Unlike so many Reefers who’ve taken the dive into this invigorating hobby, you don’t have to dive into the unknown sea of reef tanks alone.

Learn From Years of Experience and Passion - ReefHacks Guide.

ReefHacks began with a desire to educate all who are interested about the joys of this wonderful hobby. We understand how intimidating taking the first steps are, but we also know that with the right information, what feels daunting quickly becomes delightful!

It’s with this passion we’ve crafted the essential guide for beginner aquarists. From learning how to select your ideal tank, to detailed advice for coral health, you’ll uncover the latest techniques and time-honored tips to creating a vibrantly healthy aquarium, regardless of your experience.

Before you dive into our growing library of guides, let us be the first to welcome you to the wonderful world of Reefing! As always, we’re here to help you in any way possible. If you have a question, or need additional information, head on over to our Facebook and send us a message.

We look forward to exploring the wonderful world of reef tanks with you!

How to Start and Run a Reef Tank - Your Ultimate Guide Index:

Work in Progress - Last Updated: Today.

  1. The Therapeutic Effects of Reef Tanks – How It Boosts Your Health, Happiness and Connection.
  2. How To Find Your Perfect Reef Tank – Essential Guide for Beginners.
  3. Illuminating Reef Tank – Reef Tank Lighting Guide for Beginners.
  4. Go With the Flow – How To Choose The Right Aquarium Pump For Your Reef Tank.
  5. The Great Aquascaping Debate – Live Rocks vs. Dry Rocks.
  6. ​The Grainy Truth About Aquarium Sand – Ultimate Reef Tank Sand Guide.
  7. Craft an Enchanted Underwater Universe – Reef Tank Aquascaping Guide.
  8. Nutrient Export Method Hack – How To Choose Your Ideal Method.
  9. ​Ultimate Aquarium Salt Mix Guide – Defining the Sweeter Side of Reef Salts.
  10. RO/DI Reef Tank Systems Are More Important Than You Think – Here’s Why.
  11. Ultimate Guide: How To Cycle a Tank for a Strong & Healthy Watery World.
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Philips, Giesemann Combine for Stellar Reef Aquarium LED/T5 Hybrid Lighting
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Why it’s important to use a PAR Meter and what are the right PAR levels for your reef tank. MQ-500: Full-Spectrum Quantum Meter.
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Reef Octopus Sump – Everything you need to know before buying and more…
Hi guys! I can't believe that this year is so close to the end, how are you? I'm sure you[...]
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Philips Coral Care Gen 2 – Let’s take a look at the new LED lights from Philips.
Hi everyone! It's so lovely to get back to writing after a break. I'm delighted that my new reef tank[...]
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CoralVue HYDROS WaveEngine – All-in-one pump controller.
When I first decided to look into the life of aquariums, I had very little knowledge, but a real hunger[...]
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Reef Octopus VarioS Return Pump Detailed Review With Photos.
As my exciting new adventure in setting up a new reef tank continues, I moved to the next step and[...]
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Hydra

Review

Philips Coral Care Gen2

Philips Coral Care Gen 2 – Let’s take a look at the new LED lights from Philips.

Hi everyone! It's so lovely to get back to writing after a break. I'm delighted that my new reef tank from Giesemann arrives in a few days from Germany. I'm very excited about it and can't wait to share more photos when it's delivered. So, stay tuned … Continue Reading about Philips Coral Care Gen 2 – Let’s take a look at the new LED lights from Philips.

Smart AWC by AutoAqua Review – Simplifying Tank Water Changes.

The Evolution of Ease - Latest Automatic Water Changers.Don’t Try Harder, Try Smarter - Tank Maintenance Automation.Okay, so there are worse things in the world other than aquarium water changes. But, no matter how small or large a tank may be, … Continue Reading about Smart AWC by AutoAqua Review – Simplifying Tank Water Changes.

Aquaforest Method

The AquaForest Method – Nutrition Supplements for Dynamic Coral Health.

Special thank you to Aquaforest Poland and a beautiful ​Christmas Present.Since the latter part of the 20th Century, nutritional supplements have become part of everyday life. From multivitamins to refined herbal packs designed to support the … Continue Reading about The AquaForest Method – Nutrition Supplements for Dynamic Coral Health.

Featured Reef Tank Tips

Ocean Flow

Go With the Flow – Your Essential Guide How To Choose The Right Aquarium Pump For Your Reef Tank.

I’ll never forget my first adventure exploring natural coral reefs. Earlier in the day, my stomach was in knots. For years I’ve researched and studied these ancient organisms, and in a few hours I would be engulfed in their watery world.I still … Continue Reading about Go With the Flow – Your Essential Guide How To Choose The Right Aquarium Pump For Your Reef Tank.

Featured Troubleshooting

Bryopsis Algae Reef Tank

The Ultimate Reef Tank Bryopsis Cure – Essential Info, Tips & Tricks

Aliens! They do exist! Don’t worry, this isn’t an elaborate post filled with conspiracy theories and “true life” stories of my best friend’s uncle’s mechanic who once saw little green men in his driveway. While entertaining, I’ll leave those stories … Continue Reading about The Ultimate Reef Tank Bryopsis Cure – Essential Info, Tips & Tricks

Freshwater Articles

Most colorful freshwater fish.

15 Colorful Freshwater Fish & Pretty Aquarium Fish For Your Family.

The Most Attractive and Colorful Freshwater Fish to Add to Your Aquarium You probably love the way a beautiful home aquarium full of colorful freshwater fish makes for such a great conversation piece whenever people visit. However, the real … Continue Reading about 15 Colorful Freshwater Fish & Pretty Aquarium Fish For Your Family.

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ReefHacks.com – Blog about saltwater and reef aquariums and we detail the various aspects of it as a hobby. We highlight the different issues common to saltwater and reef aquarium hobbyists, review the gear needed to help you decide if the latest product from your favorite brand is worth it or find alternatives and help you with other questions that you might have on the way to your successful reef tank.

Thank you for visiting this website, and we’re happy you chose to join us!

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