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View Full Version : DIY Sump

J Feez
03-24-2006, 07:51 PM
As I've been reading more and more I've come to the conclusion that I need to get a sump. I've got a spare 24 gallon tank lying around and I'd like to use that. I'm just wondering if anyone has some plans or something that I could use to model my sump after? My tank is not drilled nor does it have any overflows so I'd need to build something that would help me out there as well. Thanks for your time everyone,
midgetwaiter
03-24-2006, 07:59 PM
I have some Dis drawings I could send you of the one I am building.

You need to decide some stuff first, simmer (what skimmer), fuge or not, return pump internal or external?

Mine has spce for a CSS 3000, a small fuge and return baffles ofr an internal pump.
J Feez
03-24-2006, 08:11 PM
I'd like to do it the easiest way possible. There isn't much room below my tank in my stand...only a couple extra inches around the tank. I have a SeaClone 100 skimmer which I'll just transfer into the sump. I'd like to have a refugium in there because I've only ever heard great things about adding one of those. I'd probably look into the same setup you said.

Also I need to treat the inside of my stand to help protect it from evaporation. What sort of treatment should I use?
mark
03-24-2006, 08:17 PM
lots on sumps here: http://www.melevsreef.com/allmysumps.html
TheReefGeek
03-24-2006, 10:17 PM
Even before the sump, you need to decide how you are going to get water down to it.

External or internal overflow? (ie drill your tank or not?)
J Feez
03-24-2006, 11:08 PM
I think because I'm already using the tank and it is fairly established I would have to do some sort of external overflow wouldn't I?
TheReefGeek
03-25-2006, 05:37 AM
Unfortunately, yes.
J Feez
03-25-2006, 05:49 AM
Can I buy an external overflow from somewhere? Are they expensive?
TheReefGeek
03-25-2006, 09:48 PM
www.lifereef.com makes a good one I have used before.
adidas
03-25-2006, 10:32 PM
I think the CPR overflow is better as its a weir style, not a tube. I have a cpr running now, got it for $60 used.
TheReefGeek
03-26-2006, 01:20 AM
And I recommend u-tube over weir. :)

Research the heck out of external overflows, I have posts on here about how to mitigate the risks of using one, do a search.