Sump

I used to use a QT, but recently I converted it to a sump/fuge.

I guess I'll head to Big Boxmart and get another 10g, before I start adding fish, as I really like the security of quarantining. It's not "absolutely" necessary, but I'd rather have one than not.

 

yeah that 10 gallon is too small For quarantine, but perfect size for a sump fuge for a 40 gallon. Good luck ! Keep us posted.

 

Thanks

Thanks for all the help. Now I have one more question. You mentioned a sumo/fuge. Would it be big enough for a refuge as well (as it will contain my skimmer, filtration (using plexiglass to hold live rock/filter floss or sponge))? And what are the advantages of having a refuge

 

I made a refugium out of a 10G, but I think with so small a tank, you're going to be limited to one task. You could make a sump/'fuge out of a 20G long.

 

Thanks for the info!

 

Actually, I would see what you could fit under you existing tank. Ten gallons is too small for a sump/fuge IMO. I am guessing you have a 40g long (48x13x16). So you have some room under your tank to work with. You could probably fit a 30g standard under there
(36x12x16) pretty well.

That would have many benefits. Thirty more gallons in your system and lots of room to work with. You could fashion your own baffles pretty easily and make what you want. Do a little plumbing with PVC and you're in business. You could offset the fuge and control flow with a valve. Lots of things you could do if you plan it out.

Just something to think about. You can never have too many projects going!!!!

Have fun. John.

A 30g standard goes for about $60 in the LFS if I am not mistaken or about $15 on craig's list.

 

Also, here is a place to read up on sump/fuges theory and design. Very good website. I got my design off of here and am going to fashion mine out of acrylic.

Melevsreef.com | Acrylic Sumps & Refugiums

Have fun. Peace. John.

 

Careful there. If that 30g develops a leak 2 months down the road, how in the heck do you get it out? I wouldn't put anything in, that I can't get back out easily, as nothing would suck more than having to drain the main tank just to be able to get the sump tank out. That's why I have a 10g sump/fuge in my setup. Maybe a little small, but at least I can repair/replace it if I need to, without bothering the main tank. And, in my opinion, an undersized sump (or sump/fuge combo) is still better than no sump.

Just something to consider.

 

Oh yes....you need access. NEVER install a sump that you cannot remove without moving the mother tank. That is a given.

 

Thanks for all the info! It's very helpful. Because of the amount of space under the tank, I think I will go with a 10 gallon sump with my skimmer, heater and filter compartments in it. I will also make (or buy) an auto top off for it.