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View Full Version : sump size question?


jdeanda69
02/25/2008, 07:56 PM
i have a 180gal tank that im planning on setting up as a mixed reef and wondering if a 30(L)x16(W)x16(h) is big enough. the first 5in are for filter bags, the next 18in in the middle are for skimmer and the last 7in are for return pump and float valve
thanks

sjm817
02/25/2008, 09:30 PM
You should use a larger sump. You will want more room for a larger skimmer, and maybe a fuge area. You also need reserve capacity to hold drain back from the display when the power is off. A larger sump also is much better for controlling bubble issues. A 75G makes a nice sump for a 180.

jdeanda69
02/25/2008, 09:47 PM
should i add to this sump or get a new one. i could add a 20 gallon tank for a refugium, is this good enough?? i dont want to use all the room under the tank because i need room for a return pump, closedloop pump, calcium reactor, sulfur reactor, ballast, 3 gal top off tank.

sjm817
02/25/2008, 09:50 PM
Use as big a sump as you can. The reserve capacity for drainback is very important as is having a big enough sump not to be fighting microbubble issues. I much prefer an 18" wide sump to a 12" sump. If you want a 3' sump, a 50G 36x18x18 might work well.

jdeanda69
02/25/2008, 10:00 PM
i think i have about 12 gals of water that runs down into my sump when power turns off?? i wanted to use what i have instead of spending money on a sump.