Recommendations on my Sump/Refugium Design

[nc87]

Hi All,

I'm currently in the process of determining the design of my sump/Refugium . Here's is what I'm thinking of doing, I'm just looking for some advice/recommendations/opinions. I’m planning on putting a pipe in the bottom of the Refugium that will circulate the water back to the return area. This is my first Sump build, I used the design from Melevsreef, but changed it around to fit under my stand. All comments/criticisms are welcomed!



Thanks for looking,
Nickhttp://i56.photobucket.com/albums/g171/nc87/Fish%20Tank/Sump-Design-new.jpg

[THE ROOK]

from left to right; 1st & 5th baffles are not needed. The bubble trap will separate the sections for you

How about: skimmer section, 3 bubble trap baffles, return section, baffle w/ teeth, refuge section. Done.

Run the refuge to the bottom & split the drain between the skimmer & refuge section. I don't really understand what the pipe is for in the refuge.

Check this site for all the sump info you'll need;

http://www.melevsreef.com/allmysumps.html

[THE ROOK]

Oh, and the 1st & 3rd baffles will dictate the skimmer height. That should match your skimmer or a stand may be needed. Most skimmers are 7-10".

You want to use the skimmer & return sections as you buffer for the display to drain beck during power interuption. So leave plenty of room there.

[nc87]

Thanks for the reply, I like your idea better. It's much more simple and I can have a bigger refuge. The pipe in the refuge was going to be the dran fron the refuge. I got the idea from Melevsreef,

http://www.melevsreef.com/55g/55_newsump_r.jpg

But I think I'll just make the refuge one full section with a baffle and cut teeth.

Thanks for the advice

[THE ROOK]

Couple of tips (some I didn't know):

1. Use painter's tape about 1/4" away from baffle on both sides. Silicone & peel tape away immediately for a nice, clean look.

2. For 2nd & 3rd bubble trap baffles, apply silicone first, then squish baffle into it. It's too tough to silicone between baffles.

3. For skimmer section; check with manufacturer for reccomended depth of water, unless it's a recirculating skimmer. Mine is set at 10" for my future MSX 200.

Good luck.