Sump/Fuge

Yeah doesn't really matter which is higher as long as they drain to the return section. The main change I was making was saying to T off the overflow and not the return for the fuges water supply.

 

i think this just makes it complacated if i see a problem i could awayls fix it but for now i'm going to try to keep it simple

 

I saw a used tank for sale once that was a 55 on a wrought iron stand with another tank below it that was i believe a 30 gallon long.It was the same size as the 55 only not as tall.I thought it would be a pretty neat set up for a sump/55 gallon tank combo.

 

I'm sure that will work fine. Let us know how it goes!

 

It would be easier if you didn't have to use two tanks. You might have to use a pump to feed the other or "T" off the overflow. The tank has to be above the other tank in order to accomplish gravity flow (way more than 5 inches). Your set-up seems complicated and should be dumbed down. You should consider a one piece and making your own exactly how you want it.

I know there are sump/fuge blueprints around here that will help you build one for under $100. I built the one (17 Gal.) in my current 26 gal. and a big one (37 Gal.) for my old 100 gal. I have blue prints of the best lay-outs and more than happy to share them with you if you're interested (I'm posting them either way=P).

 

the thing is that the space is 10" wide and even trying to position 1 10 gallon is hard so either way i do it it would have to be a 2 piece unless i only put in 1 10 gallon

 

We're in the same boat with a 55 and were literally just now sitting on the floor in front of the tank discussing this. Currently have a 12.5 gallon sump/refugium combo underneath with no place to put a skimmer (in-sump or otherwise). We would LOVE any idea where we don't have to convert the stand for installation then put it all back together. I hate being a sump newbie! Of course, I've been leaning toward no skimmer, but my boyfriend has to have his toys...LOL. Tank is cycling so now would be better than later.

Rogersjw, PLEASE take pics of all the stages (pretty please?)! I want to see them. It sounds like your setup is exactly what we're looking for.

 

I just got the fuge/return built. I'm going out of town for the weekend but I'll post some pics next week when I install the first section. Skimmer section shouldn't be too bad, I'm just gonna drill a tank I already have instead of building a new acrylic one... I'll let you know how it turns out.

 

Thank you!

Edit: Well, we found a good deal on a larger sump/fuge Sunday & put it in yesterday (had to convert the stand too, oh well). Still want to see your pics though!