Filter-Canister vs Sump

[jarmms98]

I am looking to set up a 75 or 90 gal reef tank and can't decide to do a sump or get a filter like the Eheim Wet/Dry filter or even the Unimax Pro with built in UV sterilizer in it. Any advise? Sumps still worry me a little, but like the clean look of things not hanging on it.

[jeffb3t]

A sump is much better. You can put all of you equipment in there, hidden from view, and even makke a refug compartment for cheato or any other macro. Plus, the bonus is extra water volume to dilute contaminates. All my sumps are hidden from view inside the stand so it looks like a clean set up.

[jeffb3t]

BTW, Welcome to RC!!! Have you checked out waterkeeper's threads yet?

[fsn77]

Sump -- definately. I built our own sump and refugium out of old fish tanks we had around the house -- didn't cost me anything but some time and a tube of silicone (only to install the baffles). A sump is much more flexible than a canister filter. Plus, anything you can do with a canister filter, you can pretty much do with a sump, but on an even larger scale.

[r0bin]

I just got a magnum canister filter and a hydor in-line heater and I love both! I reduced the equipment in my take by taking the two heaters I had in out and the 2 HOB filters off. That tank looks great. Also the extra flow from the canister filter is nice.

[flashlink]

I am going to have to say go with a sump...


I think it will give you more flexibility, and room to put what you want into it, out of view. Especially if your just starting out, having that extra water volume helps with water stability, especially if you can add 20-30%+ volume with one...(its easier to pollute a pond vs a lake). And after your done adding toys to your tank...(there will undoubtedly be a few ugly ones, this hobby can get addicting) you wont want to see them all hanging on the back or side of your display tank. Your just going to wanna see your reef.

Also check out the LFS setups, I haven't seen one salt water tank where they don't use some sort of sump setup.

And keep reading!! Reef Central has been an extremely valuable tool, and everyone really wants to help you out. There is no really dumb question, everyone started somewhere.

[Randall_James]

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I prefer sumps/refugium myself for reef tanks, No UV either for me as it does kill coral food that passes through it.

If this was fish only or fish with live rock a wet/dry with sterilizer would work great.

[WaterKeeper]

Hi Jar
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With a 75 or 90 I would certainly consider having a sump. It -

Provides circulation
Allows equipment like skimmers to be hidden
Increases water volume
Enhances gas exchange
Provides a handy area to do such things as top-off or water changes


A wet/dry, without bioballs, can be used as a sump but less costly arrangements are available. A cannister filter also has uses but is not a substitute for a good sump. A sump is my choice-hands down.