New to sump filtration, please help!

I just ordered my aqueon proflex (model 1) sump for my 50g tank. I am having a hard time deciding what HOB overflow and return pump would be a good choice. Also how would you recommend adding reactors? I have one with biopellets, also HOB, and a canister running GFO.

Those with experience using sumps please help!

 

Bump

 

A 50g tank doesn't need a ton of flow. After head loss, your return pump should probably put about 3-4x the amount of your DT. Of course, the overflow should be able to handle the amount. Eshopps makes ones that handle different amounts, and I've had good luck with them. For pumps, Eheim makes great stuff. Little more pricey, but low noise and heat emission.

 

Thanks for the response! I'll take a look at the eheims! I read cpr (i think they are called) are better overflows then eshopps. I want to make sure i don't get stuck with a crappy one and find my basement flooded.

 

Eheim pumps are very reliable, and also run "cooler" than other pumps because they are more efficient and draw fewer watts than comparable models at the same flow rates/TDH.

As for overflows, I stand behind Eshopps 100%.

I own three eshopps overflows - the 1800, an 800 and a nano.

Two of the three have been in operation for more than a year and have survived many power failures and water changes with no extra input on my part. Only thing I modified was putting a cover over the u-tubes to inhibit algae growth.

Other than that they are completely reliable and can be made dead silent a number of ways. I even run the 1800 spongeless for even less maintenance.

The CPR or any "wier" style overflow relies on something keeping the suction. This requires extra equipment in the form of a vacuum pump (Toms aqualifter) or a check valve - both of which introduce failpoints in a big way.

Just as long as you visually check your u-tubes to make sure there are no bubbles accumulating - you will find they are very reliable.

 

Hey ocean man! i appreciate the info it cleared up a lot! i'll post pics once everything is up n running!

 

Glad to help!

Looking forward to the build pics!

 

I would also consider Quiet One pumps

 

epic fail! the sump doesnt fit in my 36 in stand....then i started to run out of water when i did the siphon ...... the whole experience was a disaster! the instructions on the sum were garbage....and now i have only and HOB filter and power head running till the LFS opens ...... FML

 

Oh boy sorry to hear ur having a rough time with that sump setup.

Depending on whether you plan on returning the sump or using it and then selling it - you can certainly install the sump next to the tank for now. Heck - depending on the size of it you might even be able to put it on a small table/stand next to the tank and you can cut off a bunch of TDH(total displacement height) and you will run your pumps more efficiently and on less watts than having it on the floor.

There is really no major disadvantage to having outside the stand other than the look of it. And there are some that have built separate stands next to their DT's for this very purpose. Having the sump "external" from the DT also is a huge plus for more than electricity savings: equipment maintenance. If you have your skimmer/reactor/return pump in there, think about how much easier it would be to clean or do any maintenance when you do not have to work underneath the cramped space under your tank . . . I have an external sump and am very happy with being able to clean my skimmer which is at chest height without having to get underneath the tank.

Hope this helps.