The connected decision path
Begin with the total budget and intended animals. Tank dimensions then shape lighting and flow; source water affects every water change; testing establishes whether dosing or automation is justified. You can revisit any step, but skipping the order makes mismatched equipment more likely.
Budget
Price the complete setup
Estimate equipment, livestock, consumables, electricity and a sensible contingency before choosing a tank.
System
Choose the tank format
Compare AIO and nano systems by usable volume, included equipment, upgrade path and realistic UK cost.
Light
Match coverage to dimensions
Start with the lit footprint and livestock plan instead of relying on a vague maximum tank-size claim.
Flow
Separate return flow from circulation
Size the return pump for head height, then use wavemakers to shape movement inside the display.
Water
Plan source-water preparation
Choose an RODI system, understand TDS and build a repeatable saltwater mixing workflow.
Measure
Build a testing routine
Choose appropriate test methods and a schedule you can sustain before reacting to individual readings.
Stabilise
Add dosing only when demand proves it
Measure consumption first, then compare dosing pumps, methods and controller safeguards.
Maintain
Budget salt and consumables
Calculate recurring water-change costs and keep the small tools, calibration fluids and replacements visible.
USE THE TOOLS
Turn the shortlist into a system budget.
Use the editable setup-budget calculator to include the forgotten items, then check annual electricity cost with your actual wattages and tariff.
Open the setup-budget calculator · Estimate electricity cost