New to sump and have some questions

I just picked up my new 75 gal with corner overflow and I got a new PRO CLEAR pro flex 200 refugium with a sumpeme 950 mag drive. I was wondering what happens if/when the power goes out , will it overflow the sump? Is there any thing i can do like a valve to stop it. I have been using a hob filter on my 46 bow for the last two years or so and it time for a upgrade so this is all new to me but look forward to new set up. Thanks

 

It won't overflow the sump if you set it up right. Here is the best way to set it up. With the return pump turned off fill the display tank. When it gets full it will start to overflow and spill into the sump. Keep putting water into the DT and letting it spill into the sump until the sump is about 2" from the top. Now turn on the return pump and let the water level stabilize in the sump. Mark where the water level is on the sump and there you have your top off line. After you get this done turn off the return pump an the sump will fill right back up to about 2" inches from the top.

 

oh nice... i was actually wondering this question for a while..K+

 

Thanks that makes alot of since.Thats why i love 3reef so many smart people willing to help.

 

I have a question when you install a sump do you put your hang on filter in the sump or does the sump basicly do all the work?

 

You could put your HOB filter on the sump if the water level in the sump is high enough. Generally you would not want the water level that high though as it could overflow if you loose power. If you have a good skimmer and at least 1lb live rock per gallon ditch the HOB.

 

+1...

 

You can add media balls to like a intake chamber or the live rock and a carbon sock somewhere?

 

But you need to understand this......

Your pump return line will siphon water out of your display tank if you do not provide a break. Do the procedure above, to find your sump max level, but your return lines will put more water in your sump depending on how deep they go in your tank.

If your return line goes down 6 inches in your display tank, then you will put 6" in your sump.

So.... you need to drill holes in your return line, just below the water surface level so there is no splashing. 1/8" is good. Then when the power goes out, the holes will provide a siphon break and you will be golden. Be sure to check from time to time that they are clear.

 

You really don't need media balls or a filter sock. Live rock and a skimmer will handle it.