Filter/lighting Q

[spongebob69]

I acquired a used 90 gal (48x18x24) that i'd like to set up as a planted tank. The tank came with an AC 500 filter and a NO 40 watt strip light. I have a few equipment questions regarding an additional filter and PC lighting for the future setup.

I realize I will need additional filtration. What would be the best option? I was looking at maybe something from the XP series or another AC 500. In anticipation of Eheim suggestions; it really isn't in the budget this year. I realize HOB's aren't recommended for planted tanks, but I plan to keep water levels high and I definitely want to use the AC500 that came with the tank. No sense in wasting it. If I opt for an XP, should I go for the XP3, or given the additional filtration of the 500 would an XP2 be enough? OR should I just get an XP3 and run it and try and sell the AC500 or save it for an emergency?

Lastly, PC lighting options. I'm shooting for 2wpg at this time as I want to avoid injecting CO2. I can get a 4x65 watt coralife aqualight for $280 CDN. Perhaps I could only run half the bulbs along with my 40 watt strip light and full power for an hour or 2 or if I get CO2 down the road. OR I could opt for an AHsupply 4x55 watt kit. What differences in quality can you see between the AH and coralife fixtures? What would you guys suggest is best option at this time or if you have any other suggestions feel free to pass em along?

Thanks again for any help you can provide.

Sponge

 

[revfred]

I use Rena filters and have been extremely satisfied with them. IMO go with the XP3 for that size tank even with the AC500 which has a flow control. If you are going to spring for the aqualite, I would run all the bulbs and not bother with the power strip. IMO even without CO2 the extra lighting would be beneficial.

 

[NoDeltaH2O]

Ah yes, my friend. I heard you mention that awful word that plagues me as well, "budget". Here we go:

For lighting on a budget, overdrive your normal flourescent bulbs. There is a link to a sticky on the topic in my signature below (90 Watts ODNO). You can get as much or as little light as you want by doing that, for pennies on the dollar you would have spent at AH Supply or anywhere else. It does require some basic handiness with screwdrivers and hammers and such, but it's THEE best choice for someone on a budget. Saving money on lighting means you can spend it on something else, like a filter for that monster 90g. To give you an idea of the cost savings you can achieve, let me tell you what I spent:

20gallon long tank (30"x12"): DIY ODNO hood
started with the original hood which gave me one 20Watt bulb
$8 for one additional 4ft shoplight (rated at 40watts per bulb)
$14 for two 24" bulbs
$5 for wood to build the case
$2 for paint

total cost $29 for my 90watt hood which puts out 4.5wpg

 

[spongebob69]

While I am on a budget per se...I don't mind spending the money on a PC fixture and a decent cannister filter. I just want the best value for my money in terms of output, quality, etc. I am looking to avoid CO2 for now...perhaps in the future it would be a go. I read that 2wpg is a fairly agreed upon threshold as far as co2 goes. Keeping that in mind, what are my best options? This project is an ongoing one and the tank itself needs some work before it is fish/plant ready so I have time to shop around a bit.