Sump Size?

This may be a dumb question but, how do you figure out how big the sump should be for your tank? I am getting a 120 Gallon tank soon I would like to build my own sump. Also should I build a whole sump/refugium or just do I sump with an algae scrubber in it?

 

Since the sump is completely optional, any size will do. The larger the better, however, as it gives more water volume and more room for more options.

 

Well then why are premade sumps rated for tank size? I have a proflex sump now that says good for up to a 55 gallon tank. Do could I use that sump? I have more flow going through the tank with power heads if that's what the rating is about.

 

if your going 120, 6ft then you have plenty of room for a 55 down there. Or you could get the max dimensions and have some glass cut, then silicone it up. The bigger the better. Running out of room in the sump is worthless. From the voice of experience, get a huge sump. Im on the third version of mine and its now maxed out. You will run out of room eventually.

 

120 - 4 feet 55 gallon would be tight.

 

As Bill said above, the bigger the better. You could have a 4' tank and a sump the size of your house if you wanted. At the end of the day the more water volume you have the better off your life will be.

One thing to take into account is to ensure you have enough space for all your equipment.

Personally I have a cabinet larger than my tank to house a larger sump than I would otherwise been able to.

 

Other option is to do a "remote" style sump. You can build a cabinet stand next to your DT and make it for a large tank and "hide" it with woodwork so that you can have just about any size sump you want.

If that is out of the question a 40Breeder is a pretty good choice for a sump. I have a 120 with both a 40BR sump and a 20 gallon "remote" sump next to the DT for just the media reactor, skimmer, and fuge. The main sump in the bottom is for water volume and the return pump along with the heaters. Also a good spot to cure liverock for a while before putting it in the dt.

 

A remote sump isn't an option. I'll probably go with the 40 breeder. Thanks for the help.

 

I am thinking of going to do a FOWLR on a 165 gallon tank. I have this ... LINK .... Model 1 as a sump on my 55 gallon now. I can change this over to a wet dry with bioballs...would that work well enough for my filtration for now, with a skimmer?