View Full Version : Some questions about level of sump
csarkar001
08/31/2010, 07:20 AM
been out of the hobby for a few years. wondering if this is the right level at which to run my sump?
also, when i add a protein skimmer (it will sit in the sump), should i increase, decrease, or keep the sump level the same?
thanks,
chandan
http://reefcentral.com/forums/picture.php?albumid=2812&pictureid=20085
demonnite57
08/31/2010, 07:23 AM
Skimmers generally have a max water level and also for the sump you have to worry about how much water will go into your sump when you lose power, so it somewhat varies.
csarkar001
08/31/2010, 07:28 AM
i guess my question really is: should i run the sump at the max level such that if i lose power, the overflow from the tank just barely fits in the sump?
Beaun
08/31/2010, 07:49 AM
Correct, turn the tank off and fill it till it overflows into the sump; keep filling it till you get a few inches from the top, then start the return pump and mark your level. Turn off the pump to make sure you dont overflow incase you have a syphon. This is your water level.
Palting
08/31/2010, 07:58 AM
To be more precise, that would be the MAXIMUM water level in your sump. It may or may not be the OPERATING level, or the level you want it at, depending on your needs.
csarkar001
08/31/2010, 08:15 AM
so what should be my operating level?
what are the factors?
i have a 125 gal fish-only tank. will eventually add a Tunze skimmer.
Palting
08/31/2010, 08:24 AM
The biggest factor to me is the optimum level for your skimmer. It varies depending on your skimmer, but it usually is 6-9 inches. Skimmers are usually very sensitive to water levels. I can't tell from your pic, but the skimmer section in the sump should stay at a constant level, contolled by the baffle height. It is the pump section that fluctuates with evap and ATO. If you have a refugium in your sump, this too should stay at a constant level, and this level can be anything you want.
csarkar001
08/31/2010, 08:27 AM
thanks. that was the info i was looking for.
RocketSurgeon
08/31/2010, 08:31 AM
The factors include (but not limited to):
- making sure you have enough water to run everything and there is no chance of running a pump dry (remembering to include any evaporation if you don't have auto top off).
- making sure you have enough space left over for drainage from lines and equipment during power failure (so you don't overflow sump).
- leave enough space if your auto top off empties completely into your sump due to a faulty switch.
After adding your skimmer, your water level (or volume) may change.
If you have those things covered, it is a mater of preference after that. the more water volume, the more stable your parameters.
csarkar001
08/31/2010, 10:42 AM
that list is helpful. thanks.
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