Large integrated reef system
How to Set Up a Large Saltwater Aquarium: Reefer MAX 425
This is the large plug-and-play system I would consider when I want a 91-gallon display, a real sump, and the major lighting, flow, filtration, return, top-off, and control equipment designed as one package.
My verdict
A serious reef system without a piecemeal equipment plan.
The MAX 425 is the step up when the 65-gallon MAX 300 feels too small but you still want one coordinated Red Sea ecosystem. The integrated approach reduces compatibility decisions, but the larger footprint, water volume, weight, maintenance load, and operating cost deserve real planning.
Build snapshot
The package solves compatibility; you still solve logistics
The system includes the display, cabinet, sump, plumbing, two lights, two large gyre pumps, DC skimmer, DC return pump, roller filter, auto top off, and slide-out controller panel. Before ordering, plan the room, delivery path, floor support, water-making area, and maintenance access.
| Priority | Decision | Why it matters | Watch for | Action |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 · Space | 47.2 × 25.6-inch aquarium footprint | The room must support viewing, door swing, cords, and maintenance access. | Measure the entire delivery route and final service clearance. | Measure twice |
| 2 · Platform | Reefer MAX 425 G2+ | A coordinated 114-gallon display-and-sump ecosystem. | Confirm stand color, freight, current package, and floor suitability. | Check system |
| 3 · Fundamentals | Heat, RO/DI, salt, rock, testing, maintenance | These remain essential even with an integrated package. | Larger volume means larger storage and water-change logistics. | See essentials |
| Add with demand | Advanced testing and dosing | Supports coral consumption after it becomes measurable. | Do not automate a dose you have not established manually. | Review later gear |
Reefer MAX 425 G2+ Complete System
The 47-inch display creates noticeably more aquascaping and swimming room than the MAX 300 while retaining the same coordinated ReefBeat approach. Assembly-ready piping and the precision drain valve simplify plumbing and tuning.
- 91-gallon ultra-clear display
- Marine-spec plywood cabinet
- Sump and assembly-ready plumbing
- Two ReefLED 90 lights and arms
- Two ReefWave 45 gyre pumps
- Reefer DC Skimmer 600
- ReefRun 5500 and ReefMat 500
- ReefATO+ and Control Panel 60
Integrated equipment
What scales up from the MAX 300
Two ReefLED 90 fixtures
The included lights and mounting arms provide coordinated coverage across the wider display.
Two ReefWave 45 pumps
The larger gyres provide broad controllable flow suited to the 47-inch aquarium.
ReefMat 500
The automatic roller exports trapped waste and reports roll status and errors through ReefBeat.
Reefer DC Skimmer 600
The larger matched skimmer adds app-connected control and self-leveling technology.
ReefRun 5500
Scheduling, feed modes, and pump alerts live in the same control ecosystem.
ReefATO+
The included top-off system also monitors temperature and provides external leak detection.
Still required
Finish the system with heat, rock, and maintenance access
Two appropriately sized heaters
The original plan calls for two 400-watt units. Verify sizing for your room temperature and total water volume before buying.
About 60 pounds of shapes
Arches and branching pieces create negative space and coral shelves without building a dense wall.
About 60 pounds of base rock
Mixing conventional pieces with shapes gives you more stable building options and fish habitat.
Flipper Float Max
I have owned a Flipper for years. The Max is the safer match once the glass thickness moves beyond the regular model’s ideal range.
Large-tank routine
Choose tools that make 114 gallons maintainable
RO/DI system
Home water production is essential at this scale. Plan collection, storage, mixing, and safe drainage.
Tropic Marin Pro Reef
This is the salt I use because it mixes cleanly and can remain stored for water changes and emergencies.
Large or XL siphon
A larger two-inch siphon makes detritus removal and water changes more realistic on this footprint.
Long-handled scraper
The handheld AquaBlade reaches corners and stubborn areas the magnetic cleaner may miss.
Calibrated refractometer
The ATO replaces evaporation, but you still need independent salinity verification.
Safe, labeled power control
I use several individually switched strips. Keep connections dry, use drip loops, and label every cord.
Add with livestock demand
Test first, then automate only what the reef consumes
Basic saltwater test kit
Use it through cycling and for broad water-quality checks before adding specialized tests.
Calcium and alkalinity tests
I prefer the straightforward Salifert calcium kit and the convenient Hanna alkalinity checker.
Independent controller
A separate controller can provide another layer of protection against heater failure.
Choose the sand depth
A few 20-pound bags may be appropriate, but calculate quantity from the footprint and depth you actually want.
Maintenance brushes
Stiff detail brushes make pump, sump, nozzle, and tight-area cleaning far easier than a toothbrush.
TDS meter
If the RO/DI already has an inline meter, a handheld unit is optional rather than required.
Compare before you decide
MAX 425 or the smaller MAX 300?
Choose the MAX 425 when the 91-gallon display, 47-inch length, larger skimmer, and higher-flow pumps justify the space and work. Choose the MAX 300 when you want the same integrated ecosystem in a more manageable footprint.
