Sump Question

[dannable]

I will be upgrading to a new 75 Gallon FOWLR in about 10-12 months but for now i am doing my research.

I was wondering is someone could save me some time. Is it worth setting up a sump? Should I get a tank with a built in overflow or use a hob overflow?

Is it really necessary to use a sump in a fowlr? Any advice would be appreciated.

[dannable]

I would also like to ask is there a good hob skimmer that is not "huge". I have a Coralife Super Skimmer 65 and the pump and overflow boxes are massive.

[AIMFish]

That's one of the main reasons I prefer sumps, little equipment showing, that and a constant water level in tank ;) I think getting a hob skimmer big enough to do a 75 and not have a pretty big pump will be pretty hard. If available I'd always chose a built in overflow tank over a standard. They are more versatile and in the future when you feel like upgrading, it will be a lot easier.

[Shagsbeard]

Thre are at least 12 great reasons for getting a sump, water level is a great one.

2) Increased volume for stability
3) Moving heaters and skimmers out of view
4) pH stabalization by night time lighting.
5) Easier access for water changes
6) Growth of macro algae for nitrate removal
7) Growth of copepods for free food (good food too).
8) Extra circulation
9) Removal of water from the surface of the tank to inhibit "scum" forming on the surface.
10) Nice place to run carbon or other media without having to run a canister filter.
11) ummm.... ummm.... looks really "techno" and impresses the ladies.

[FullPull]

LOL at Shagsbeard...I love #11, not sure I buy it...but it sounds good none the less

[ken6217]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=8691356#post8691356 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by Shagsbeard


11) ummm.... ummm.... looks really "techno" and impresses the ladies.

Then remember, bigger is better.
Ken

[dannable]

lol I am sold based on #11!! Wanna see my pimp sump??

[dannable]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=8691356#post8691356 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by Shagsbeard

6) Growth of macro algae for nitrate removal


Could I just throw some macro algae in the sump? Is there anything special that needs to be done?

[6stang9]

i would go with built in overflow. less chance of flooding. plus return pump i. e. mag 9.5 is great for good flow (less powerheads) and i would also go with DSB (deep sand bed). with fowlr and deep sand bed i wouldn't even waist my money or time with a skimmer.

[popimp06]

i do it all for the ladies.

[Aquarist Guru]

Use Chaeto Algae only, some use other stuff but the truth is only Chaeto doesn't have a fall out period, in other words if you let plants cycle they too release nitrates over time, chaeto from what I'm told by the "ol timers" does not. Plus its nearly indestructable.

Heres a bunch of premade sumps that I'd recommend they come with everything its cheaper if you buy it that way too:

http://www.tropicalfishoutlet.com/DryGoodSpecies.asp?DryGoodSubCategoryID=619&DryGoodCategory=Filters