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Reef calculator · reviewed 2026-05-01
Reef build checker before you buy
The safest pre-buy check is cross-category: tank, reef goal, bioload, light, flow, heat, filtration, water, and livestock all have to agree before the cart becomes the build.
build passes when every required category clears its rule threshold
Skimmer target
150 gal rating
Light, medium, and heavy targets are 113, 150, and 188 gallons of skimmer rating.
Heater safety band
190-375 W
Use two heaters around 95 W each, preferably controller-backed.
Display flow
2,250 GPH
The 20-40x band gives 1,500-3,000 GPH before aquascape and pump placement.
Return pump rating
750-1,500 GPH
That aims to deliver 375-750 GPH after about 50% plumbing loss.
Light coverage
864 sq in
For this goal, use the 150-250 PAR band and cover the full 864 sq in footprint.
Startup budget
$3,500-$5,575
Monthly consumables often land around $60-$120 before livestock surprises or upgrades.
What this catches
The first-order mismatch: too little capacity, unsafe wattage, weak turnover, missing coverage, or a budget that ignores supplies.
What it cannot catch alone
A single calculator cannot verify every product, livestock choice, chamber fit, vendor listing, or future stocking plan.
Why open the planner
The planner combines this result with equipment categories, budget tier, bioload, and compatibility rules.
Embed this calculator
Free to use on your site, forum post, or club page. Paste this where you want the live calculator to appear.
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