Red Sea REEFER G3+ Aquariums in NZ: Models, ReefControl & What's New

Red Sea's REEFER aquariums have been the go-to "reef-ready" systems for New Zealand reefers for years. The latest generation, the REEFER G3+, keeps the things people loved about the G2+ (a matched cabinet, a quiet sump and plumbing that's ready to go) and adds a stronger eurobraced display, more flow and, for the first time, a built-in smart controller called ReefControl.

This guide covers what's new, the full model line-up with Red Sea's published specs, how ReefControl works, which size suits which reefer, and what to budget for when you set one up.

What's new in the REEFER G3+ compared with the G2+

If you've owned or looked at a REEFER G2+, these are the main changes in the G3+:

• Eurobraced display. The G2+ was rimless. Every G3+ display has a eurobrace around the top edge, with ultra-clear glass up to 19 mm thick and euro-silicone seams. The larger models (625, 750, all S-series and the Peninsula S models) add a bottom brace as well.
• ReefControl included. Each G3+ ships with a ReefControl controller and the ATO module, which handles automatic top-off and has an integrated temperature monitor. More on this below.
• More flow. Red Sea quotes up to 50% more circulation through the system. Larger models get wider return piping and upgraded nozzles, and the 425 and up have dual return outlets so you can run one or two return pumps.
• Quieter, adjustable drain. A silent downflow with an enlarged rectangular inlet, and a high-precision ReefGate gate valve so you can fine-tune the drain.
• Better overflow. A central overflow with a removable surface skimmer and curved return outlets.
• ReefMat-ready sump. The removable filtration compartment takes micron socks and media cups out of the box, and you can upgrade to a ReefMat 500 or ReefMat 1200 fleece roller later.
• Tougher cabinet. Marine-spec plywood with levelling feet, epoxy-painted doors and stainless-steel hinges. The 625 and larger add front aluminium supports. Black or White finish.
• Warranty. Red Sea's standard warranty is 3 years. Red Sea's free extension to 5 years on registration is only offered in selected countries, and New Zealand is not currently one of them.

REEFER G3+ models and specifications

The G3+ comes in four families. The standard models (200, 300, 425, 625, 750) suit most living rooms. The S-series (S-550 to S-1000) have a deeper 68 cm front-to-back and 65 cm tall display for bigger aquascapes. The Peninsula models are built to stand out from a wall so the reef can be viewed from more than one side.

Specifications from Red Sea's published REEFER G3+ model data. Volumes are approximate, and Red Sea may update designs, so ask us for the current dimensional drawing before you plan your install.

ReefControl explained: the smart controller that comes with every G3+

ReefControl is Red Sea's modular reef controller. It works with the ReefBeat app, so you can see readings, get alerts and set rules from your phone. With the G3+ it replaces the separate top-off unit many G2+ owners added. The ATO module is included, so automatic top-off and temperature monitoring work from day one. For the full details on probes, ReefControl Power 6 and setup, read our Red Sea ReefControl guide.

ReefControl Lite vs ReefControl Pro

• ReefControl Lite (included with the 200, 300 and Peninsula 350 G3+): connects up to 2 ReefSense probes or sensors and one 12 V DC device.
• ReefControl Pro (included with the 425, Peninsula 500 and larger G3+ models): connects up to 4 ReefSense probes or sensors (up to 7 with the ReefSense Port Expander) and two 12 V DC devices.

ReefSense digital probes

ReefControl uses ReefSense digital probes. Each probe converts its reading to a digital signal inside the probe, which helps avoid the electrical interference that can upset analogue probes in a busy sump. Calibration is stored on the probe itself, so you can move a probe between ports or controllers without recalibrating, and it keeps a calibration history and warns you when it's nearing end of life. Any probe works in any port.

Options include the pH & Temperature probe, the Salinity & Temperature probe (a 4-pole conductivity sensor that reads in PSU, mS or SG), the ORP probe, a temperature probe and a leak detector. Need more ports? Add the ReefSense Port Expander. For a ready-made bundle, the ReefControl Pro DLX kit includes pH/Temp, Salinity/Temp, ORP and leak sensors.

Which probes come in the box with a G3+ can vary, so check the product page or ask us before you order extras.

ReefControl Power: smart sockets for your heaters and gear

ReefControl Power 6 is a smart power centre that brings your mains equipment into the system. The AUS/NZ version has 6 sockets rated to 2400 W in total. Each socket can be always on, normally off, scheduled (up to 10 periods a day) or sensor-controlled, for example a heater that switches off if the temperature probe reads too high. It also shows live power use and works with non-Red Sea equipment. The Power 6 Deluxe adds a manual control panel.

Which REEFER G3+ size is right for you?

• First reef or a smaller space: 200 or 300. At 60 cm and 90 cm long, they fit most apartments and lounges. They're ideal for soft corals, LPS and a few small fish.
• Most popular all-rounder: 425. A 120 cm display with about 343 L in the tank gives room for a mixed reef and a wider choice of fish, and it steps up to ReefControl Pro.
• Bigger reefs and tangs: 625 or 750. 150 cm and 180 cm long, giving active swimmers like tangs more room.
• Show tanks with more depth: S-series (S-550, S-700, S-850, S-1000). The 68 cm depth and 65 cm height give you room for layered aquascapes and big SPS colonies.
• Room dividers and feature walls: Peninsula (350, 500, S-700, S-950). Built to be viewed from more than one side.

Want everything matched and ready to go? Our Red Sea reef aquariums range also includes REEFER MAX G3 packages (the previous G3 generation), which bundle lighting, pumps, skimmer and top-off with the tank. Compare them with the G3+ base systems, or ask us which suits your plans.

What you'll need to add to a G3+

A G3+ base system includes the aquarium, cabinet, sump, factory plumbing with the ReefGate valve, and ReefControl with the ATO module. To get it running you'll also need:

• Lighting, such as ReefLED G2 fixtures or another reef LED from our lighting range.
• A return pump, such as a ReefRun G2 DC pump (the 425 and larger can run one or two). See all aquarium pumps.
• Circulation: ReefWave 25, ReefWave 45 or other wave makers.
• A protein skimmer sized for your system. See the REEFER DC 600 or our protein skimmer range.
• Heating from our heaters and chillers range. Pair it with ReefControl Power if you want sensor-controlled heating.
• Salt, RODI water, rock and sand. See our reef salt, RODI units and reef rock.

Setup tips for your new REEFER G3+

1. Check the floor and the path in. A filled reef is very heavy. Place larger models on a solid floor, ideally near a load-bearing wall, and measure doors, halls and stairs before delivery day.
2. Level the cabinet first. Use the levelling feet to get the cabinet perfectly level before you add any water.
3. Leak-test with fresh water. Fill with RODI water, run the return and set the ReefGate valve so the overflow runs quietly. Then drain and refill with saltwater. Our guide to mixing saltwater covers the process step by step.
4. Set up ReefControl early. Connect the ATO module and app before you add livestock, so top-off and temperature alerts are working from the start.
5. Cycle patiently. Let the tank cycle fully and test your water before you add fish or coral. See our reef tank water testing guide and how to set up a marine reef tank in NZ.

Why buy your REEFER G3+ from EasternMarine Aquariums?

We're a dedicated reef store at 114 Wiri Station Road, Wiri, Auckland, and we've helped many NZ reefers choose, set up and stock REEFER systems. When you buy from us, you get:

• Honest advice on sizing, equipment and stocking for your space and budget.
• The full Red Sea ecosystem in one place, including ReefControl, ReefSense probes, ReefLED, ReefRun, ReefWave, ReefMat and REEFER DC skimmers.
• Livestock, corals, salt, rock and dry goods to finish the job, with NZ-wide delivery.
• Local, ongoing support after the sale.

Frequently asked questions

Is the REEFER G3+ rimless?

No. Unlike the rimless G2+, every G3+ display is eurobraced, and the larger models also have a bottom brace.

Does the REEFER G3+ come with lighting and pumps?

No. G3+ systems are base systems that include the aquarium, cabinet, sump, plumbing and ReefControl with the ATO module. You choose lighting, pumps, skimmer and heater separately. If you'd rather have a bundle, ask about the REEFER MAX G3 packages.

What's the difference between ReefControl Lite and Pro?

Lite supports up to 2 ReefSense probes or sensors and one 12 V DC device. Pro supports up to 4 probes or sensors (up to 7 with the ReefSense Port Expander) and two 12 V DC devices. The 200, 300 and Peninsula 350 G3+ come with Lite. The 425, Peninsula 500 and larger come with Pro.

Can I add ReefControl to an older REEFER or another tank?

Yes. ReefControl Lite, Pro and ReefControl Power are sold separately, so you can add them to an existing aquarium. Talk to us about which probes and modules suit your setup.

Can I still buy a REEFER G2+?

The G2+ range has been replaced by the G3+. If you already own a G2+, we can still help with compatible equipment, upgrades and advice.

What warranty does the REEFER G3+ have?

Red Sea's standard warranty is 3 years. Red Sea offers a free extension to 5 years on registration only in selected countries, which do not currently include New Zealand. Contact us if you have a warranty question.