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A standard REEFER G3+ gives you a reef-ready foundation, not a fully running reef. The difference matters when you compare prices: the tank and cabinet are only part of the initial spend. Use this checklist to separate the supplied infrastructure from the equipment you still need to choose.
What does the standard REEFER G3+ include?
Red Sea lists the aquarium and reinforced cabinet, hydrodynamic plumbing with the ReefGate valve, a ReefMat-ready sump with removable mechanical filtration compartment, micron filter socks and media cups, plus a ReefControl controller and ATO module. The controller is Lite on the 200, 300 and Peninsula 350; Pro on the 425, Peninsula 500 and larger standard systems. The ATO module includes the level sensor, top-off pump and temperature monitoring. Check each model listing for reservoir and package details.
“ReefMat-ready” means the sump has been designed to accept a ReefMat. It does not mean a fleece roller is included with every standard REEFER. Likewise, a ReefControl-compatible probe or accessory is not automatically part of the tank bundle.
The main equipment to add
| Item | Why you need it | Buying check |
|---|---|---|
| Return pump | Moves water from sump to display | Match the model’s recommended flow, head height and pipework |
| Reef lighting and mounts | Supports coral growth and display coverage | Match spread and mounting to tank dimensions and eurobracing |
| Circulation pumps | Move water around rockwork and corals | Choose position and adjustable flow for the aquascape |
| Protein skimmer or filtration plan | Helps manage dissolved waste | Check sump chamber fit and expected bioload |
| Heater and temperature safeguards | Maintains stable water temperature | Size for the system; consider independent protection |
| RO water and salt mix | Provide water for first fill and later changes | Allow for the full system volume and mixing storage |
Depending on your plans, you may also want a ReefMat, leak detector, additional ReefSense probes, dosing pump, cooling, a cover or an RO unit. Check compatibility and available cabinet space before ordering accessories together.
Do not forget the first month
Set aside a budget for rock, suitable substrate, a refractometer, marine salt, water test kits and a way to mix and heat new saltwater. Cycle the system and confirm stable parameters before adding livestock gradually. Leave room in the budget for ongoing salt, replacement filter media and testing supplies.
Would MAX be simpler?
A REEFER MAX G3+ package includes matched Red Sea lighting, circulation, return pump, skimmer and mechanical filtration equipment, with the exact list depending on model. Red Sea specifies ReefControl Pro, ATO module and pH/temperature probe across the MAX G3+ range. If you are comparing standard and MAX, line up the complete contents of the same size side by side; avoid comparing a bare tank price with an equipped system price.
See our G3 vs G3+ comparison and browse the current REEFER and MAX collections. Check the actual listing before ordering, as G3+ availability and package contents may change.
Sources: Red Sea REEFER G3+ and REEFER MAX G3+.
Product specifications can vary by model and package. Check the exact listing and Red Sea documentation before ordering.
