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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.
Light, medium, and heavy targets are 113, 150, and 188 gallons of skimmer rating.
Use two heaters around 95 W each, preferably controller-backed.
The 20-40x band gives 1,500-3,000 GPH before aquascape and pump placement.
That aims to deliver 375-750 GPH after about 50% plumbing loss.
For this goal, use the 150-250 PAR band and cover the full 864 sq in footprint.
Monthly consumables often land around $60-$120 before livestock surprises or upgrades.
This tool is a doorway into the build planner. Use it for the quick number, then check the surrounding equipment before buying.
Reviewed by Max Rodes on 2026-05-01 against the connected guide, equipment sizing methodology, and planner formula.
Calculators expose planning assumptions, not guarantees. See the editorial policy.
The first-order mismatch: too little capacity, unsafe wattage, weak turnover, missing coverage, or a budget that ignores supplies.
A single calculator cannot verify every product, livestock choice, chamber fit, vendor listing, or future stocking plan.
The planner combines this result with equipment categories, budget tier, bioload, and compatibility rules.
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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