6 replies to this topic

[pmp01]

I have been given a 4ft tank with a hole drilled in the bottom. It has previously been a salt tank. I was not given a dump with it and no pipe work. I was wondering what size sump it would need and how to set it up. I'm also new to saltwater setups so any pointers/tips ect would be great.

Thanks.

[MrLeifBeaver]

Hello Pmp01,

 

4ft is still not exactly clear enough. What are the full tank dimensions so that we can work out the Literage?

[malawiman85]

Also need planned stocking requirements etc

[malawiman85]

But... 2 or 3 foot tank would be ok... i would prefer 3 foot. Fill it with well established live rock.
Have a look at this link to get a handle on what you can do with your set up. http://www.chucksadd...mp designs.html

[Morley Aquariums]

Usually work roughly 10% of tank volume for media space. Then determine operating water level/ volume. On top of this you need to work out how much overflow it will need to hold. This is the amount of water that will flow into it from the tank when pump turned off. Calculate this by working out the amount of water above the lowest outlet point of drain pipe/weir x width x length cm/1000.
Eg in a 6 x 2 tank with water level 1 cm above the outlet weir an overflow of 11 litres + weir volume must be added to operating sump volume. So if using 10%, 60 L media, say 80 litres sump operating water volume + 12 litres overflow = minimum 92 litre sump. add a bit more for safety.
Really important to make sure the calculation is made from the lowest possible outlet point.
Always fill the sump by filling the tank & allowing it to overflow into the sump. This way you cannot overfill & end up with a flood with first power cut.

[pmp01]

When I get home I'll get the full dimensions of tank and try make a start on it.

Do you need to still use a protein skimmer if using a sump??

[dazzabozza]

The idea to skimmers is to pull waste out of the water before the filters start having to break it down. The end result being less nitrates. Some say over-skimming can start pulling good nutrients out of the water that the coral feed off.

A skimmer would be a good addition if you have the budget for one. If you're going to keep coral than it'll pay for itself if your coral live longer and you don't have to replace as often.

Vebas would be the closest to you that specialise in marines and have a good range of skimmers to choose from if you need one.