75 Gal./sump requirements

I am new to saltwater, I have for the last 6 months read forum after forum, and asked tons of questions so when the time comes for me to start my setup I would be prepared. I want to have a variety of corals and and maybe a half dozen small fish ie clowns ect. I was going to start buying equipment ie tank, lights and rest after the first of the year, but I was in the lfs today and they are having a dollar a gallon sale on 55 and 75 gal. tanks, I couldn't resist because I was wanting to start with a 75 anyways. I bought the 75, should I buy a 55 to use as a sump? will that be a good size for a sump with refugium for a 75 or is it a little big?

 

Can you fit the 55 under a stand for the 75? If so then go for it. Most people cannot fit one so they go for a 30 gallon that is 36". Thats what I have for my 90 and it does me very well..

 

I am also using a 30G as a sump. The dimensions ar 36"x12"x16". Don't mistake this for a 29G which is 30"x12"x20"/18" (I forget which one). Get the biggest tank you can fit in your stand.

 

If you can fit it then the general rule of thumb with sumps is bigger is better if you can go with a 40 gallon breader it should be 36" that is what I have below my 90 gallon.

 

A 55 gallon would make a great sump/Fuge combo for the 75. I am currently using a 50 gallon for my sump and a 37 gallon tall for my fuge.

Unfortunately unless your are custom building your stand you will not be able to fit a 55 under the 75 as they are both 48" long. If you are then you can lengthen your stand to accommodate the 55 underneath.

And another thing, depending on weather or not you have plans on drilling your sump, most 55g tanks cannot be drilled on any panel due to the fact that they are made completely out of tempered glass.

 

When i had my 75 gallon tank, i use a 40 gallon breeder as as sump. Its the perfect size for that tank, it will allow you to fit a great in sump skimmer! it will also give you room to run a fuge and have a seperate return area!