Sump size

Since a 5 gallon standard tank is the only dimensions that can fit in my stand, is that adiquate for a 22 gallon display? if not, any other ideas other than ordering a custom one?

My second question is: if i have an overflow box with a 1-1/2" bulkhead (eshopps pf-800) and its rated for a maximum of 800 GPH, can i have 2 pumps in my sump? I currently have 2 and one is rated 400gph and one is 386. Would this be too much? I would connect the two pumps with a T fitting or something so its all in one return.

Anyways, with that being said, if the bulkhead on the overflow is 1-1/2" then does it matter how big my return is? obviously it cant be that big but i was thinking 1" pvc? sound good? Please say thats good because i have an abundance of it ;D

 

With a 5 gallon sump, are you going to be able to fit any equipment in there? The return pump will take up a lot of space to begin with. As for the pumps, That should be ok given that the pumps need to pump the water up a few feet to reduce the out put of the pump. Just keep an eye on once you start it up. You will also see the evaporation from the tank in the sump, so you may need an ATO or frequently top off the water manually.

 

um my question is why do you need 800 gph going through a 5 gallon sump
that seems way overboard to me

plus like guitarman said idk how much equipment you will be able to fit might be better if you make it a refugium and a place for your heater top off etc

 

all i have to put in there is a HOB skimmer (which means all there is in the 5 gallon is a pump for the skimmer), a phosphate reactor (again, only a small pump in there) and the return pump... not that much and i think i can do it.

 

If that's all you can fit then that's all you can fit. Also, I personally think even 400gph through a 5 gallon sump is way too much, I would look more in the 100-200gph after head loss honestly. Were you factoring head loss into your pumps?
Also, overflow boxes are rated as a maximum flow through, so you should be fine with less than 800 gph. There may be some tricks/problems if you have too little flow going through the overflow box though, I've never used one but I might check with someone who's familiar with them.

 

If it is a HOB overflow that uses a U-tube, running too slow of a return flow can cause air bubbles to build up at the top of the U-tube eventually leading to a siphon break and all kinds of following problems. If its run at faster drain speeds the bubbles pass right on through and are carried safely down to the sump.

~Will.

 

Ya too little water going through the overflow is what flooded my room (on the 3nd floor, and carpet). I kinda have no other options right now other than custom making a tank. Or getting a new stand which would be pretty stupid considering i spent like 120 bucks on it and i like it...

 

A CPR overflow with an Aqualifter would ensure operation at slow flows.

 

Ok so i just purchased both of these. If my return, factoring in head loss was about 300 gph, is that ok considering ALL of my filtration (phosphate reactor, filter sock, and skimmer) is in the sump? will that little amount of water going to the sump effect my water quality and purity? is it a little amount of water?

thanks,
ryan

 

anyone? i really need some help/advice!!