Im a freshwater enthusiast looking to maybe convert. The one thing I never understood about sumps or wet/dry is what happens if the power goes out and your pump dosnt work? Wouldn't your entire tank drain out onto the floor?
Only the amount of water in the overflow and return plumbing will drain into the sump in the event of a power failure. As long as your sump has enough capacity for that there will not be an overflow.
Okay, say i was making a "sump" but more of a resevoir to increase water volume. Would i use submersible pumps that have equal gph to bring water from tank, and water to tank?
The bubbles if picked up by the return pump will make their way into the display tank and most people find that micro bubbles in the display are unsightly. Also, if you have corals in the tank the micro bubbles can irritate some species.
hey bro i need some help... i'm putting glass in front of a cement tank, i have no idea how to do that, how can i stick glass with cement? should i put the glass in a steel frame & then stick the frame in the cement or should i use some kinda glue? & then how can i seal the joints to make it waterproof? i'm do confused, can u help me with that? or give me some links about it plz?
Oh, thats something I have never dealt with. I would highly recommend doing some research on the topic instead of just trying something and finding out it does not work. Sorry that I cannot be of much help with your question. Good luck with your build.
It is a series of acrylic baffles spaced somewhat close together to break up any bubbles that may be in the water column so they do not get pumped back into the display tank.
I've heard some negative things about using acrylic baffles in a glass tank. I would like to build my own sump, but a lot of forums I've read say that you should not silicone acrylic to glass because it will not hold. Are there any tips to alleviate this concern?
Just make sure you use a lot of silicone when you are securing the baffles. It is true that the silicone does not bind to the acrylic like it does to the glass. So the silicone is used more like book ends for the acrylic.
im planning my design for a sump setup and was wondering: my 60 cube has an overflow built in, and was wondering if the power were to go out would there be possible flooding from the sump? thanks
wow that was a unique way of drilling a hole in the aquarium and it makes so much more sense than the others I have seen such as put running water on the tank as you drill. Thanks for the video and the lesson much appreciated.
I thought most sump setups had the protein skimmer in the first chamber, then the refugium, then finally the return pump. Is there a benefit to having the protein skimmer in the second or third chambers as opposed to it being in the first?
Two questions,1) I have had a number of people on the forums ask why I'm drilling the tank for my sump, since this is my first sump ....I don't know. What is the advantage of drilling and having the inflow from the side Vs just coming in from the top or is it just a personal preference? 2) My tank is a 80g, is the 20g long tank I plan to use for the sump big enough?
I like to use the standard 30 gallon (NOT 29) tank like I show in the video.
Reason is it has a nice footprint to allow you to use some of the larger skimmers.
The sump shown in the overflow types video is just an old (20+ year) wet dry filter. There would have been biomedia of some sort dirrectly under the rotating bar. the rotation of the bar made sure the media would stay wet.
Wet dry filters are old technology and there are better ways of filtering now.
It also cools and oxygenizes the water and the inlet box it tends to skim off the nasty oil slick look to the surface of the water which will reduce the amount of light going to your corals. My first tank was a 29 long and it had 50lbs live reef rock and alot of coral 2 clowns and a banded shrimp. The hobby of reef tanks are all trial and error and taking ideas from everyone and see what simplifies your life.
with the moustache, the low res, oldish looking video, and the corny music, I totally thought this was recorded in the 80's! lol. then I heard him mention Ebay. lol
This may be a stupid question, but what does a sump/refugium do? I have a 29Gallon Saltwater and I want to start corals. Do I need a sump/ refugium? I have a canister filter.
You do not HAVE to have a sump but they add additional water volume, provide a place to hide equipment and can also house a refugium. A refugium is an area where you can grow macroalgae and provide shelter to pods and other small creatures to provide a continuous live food source for your tank.
@LimpitsReef Do you have a video or a guide on how to build one I understand how to build a sump now all I need is the weir and I'll be good to go! =D
hello, i loved your video and actually made a DIY sump my self for my 125 gallon aquarium. i added the center space to be a refugium and didn't realize where my protein skimmer be. i bought an eshopps skimmer with a pump in it... i was thinking putting the pump in the first stage, then with a hose atached to the protein skimmer which will in maybe outside with another hose pumping the water inside the tank or maybe inside the refugium which is the second stage. would you recommend this? thanks
Hi currently have 30 gallon FW tank which im going to use as a sump for an 80 gallon tank.
I Know you said this has worked for you but I have read that you need the skimmer before the live rock? and when you have live rock you need good water coverage over the rock otherwise nitrate builds up? your help would be appreciated.
I have a question. I have a 60 gallon tank and a delray wetdry filter now since I do no twant to use the bio balls i was thinking of just putting my skimmer into it. Would that work as a sump? its olny like 10 gallons.
nice tank was wondering could i get some advice, im thinking of building a large tank 12 ft long X 4 ft high X 4 ft wide, the reason im building is its cheaper, now i was wondering for a tank this size wat kind of a filtration system would i need, im making a cichlid tank caves and plants, wit sand so was wondering is their a special filter system their to be used
thanks, I'm barely starting my tank and i'll have the diy sump, skimmer, powerhead, lights, what else should ill be using? maybe a pump and which should i use? thanks
Hey,good news.I got a brand new overflow box.I want to go with a ten gallon sump.What kind of return pump should i get?Also,would coraffix adhesive gel be as good as that super glue gel you use?I also have aquarium silicone sealant.All i need i guess is a glass shop to drill a hole in the side of the sump.
You don't HAVE to drill the side of the tank to use it as a sump. In fact I would not recommend trying to drill a 10 gallon tank as the glass on some of those is very thin.
You need to match your return pump to just a little less than the GPH rating of your overflow.
If anyone here wants to save a little cash on pumps, look into pond pumps.. They seem to be a lot cheaper than salt water pumps and I can’t see any difference between my salt water pump and the other two pond pumps I picked up in a hardware store. They are the same make, impellers are the same and they came with more fittings.. Hope this saves someone a few bucks.
Hello! I am sort of new to the hobby. I have a 55 gallon salt water fish tank and am considering starting a reef tank. I was wondering if I could use my Fluval Fx5 canister filter as a return pump/filter from my sump to my main tank.
Or would I have to discard my filter and just get a regular pump to get water to the main tank?
I cannot recommend using a canister filter to pump the water from your sump back into the display tank. You will be better off buying a return pump and use the canister as a carbon filter or sell it.
Hey dude...These vids have been so helpfull!!! Im using 45gal sump and main tank is 75 gal....how do you know how high to make that last panel in the trap in relation to your return pump? my pump does 3600l/h
Hi again,what other options that are cheaper do i have for a drain from my marine tank to the sump?An overflow box is a little too expensive for me right now.Also what are cheaper options for a return pump water flow from my sump back to my marine tank?Thanks
i just want to thank you very much for doing a lot of these videos. It actually helps some of us (if we are a handy person) on doing these things on our own. you are awesome!
hi.. what is the ideal nitrite, nitrate and ph levels for saltwater tank??? how to use the test kits?? how often the recommendable water change or maintenance for the tank???
Hi limp I'm making my own ply/glass 1000 litre plus FOWLR and may go in to the realm of corals how would you filter something like this? How big does my sump have to be and what is the cheapest materials to use
great..! this video is really informative.. can u give me some advice what is the ideal sump tank size that im going to use for my 50 gal reef tank??? since i dont have any materials to use, what is the ideal size per divider section on sump tank?? since i plan to buy a ready made sump tank.. also what are the other way on how to connect the pvc on my main tank since it set up already??? is in need to make a hole on it?? hope u can help me on this.. thanks!!!
hi... i have 50gal salt water tank.. aside from sump tank, theres have an option or other ways on how to keep my water in good condition??? or it is really need or requirements for this type of tank??? hope you can help me to improve my tank..
While a sump is not a "must have" for a tank it does provide extra water volume and a place to house a protein skimmer.
To keep water quality top notch you will need test kits to monitor the water quality and do proper water changes with RO water. Do not overfeed your fish and feed them a quality food.
Hi, I have a Rena Filstar XP3 canister filtar and I am looking into building a sump based off of your model. Do you know if it would be possible to place the filter intake inside the sump so when the water has gone through the sump, it then goes through the canister filter and then back into the tank. Thanks
nice vid ! I am starting a 55 gallon saltwater & a 10 gallon diy sump with 1inch pvc overflow ,40 inches from sump bottom to top tank. What size return pump would i need can u help me please??
I have a spare 30 gallon tank that I've been wanting to turn into a sump for my 75 gallon. My question is have you seen any sump design work without drilled holes? Using 2 similar power pumps from the main tank into the sump, and vise versa?
Using a pump to move the water from the main tank to the sump is a very bad idea. You need to either drill the tank of use a hang on the back overflow to get the water to the sump.
@LimpitsReef ive only got a small 12 gallon nano cube and was wondering since my cabinet is small if it would be worth making a sump and refuge for it dimensions: 31,28,28?
im planning on setting up a 50 gal and i want a sump for it, how big of a sump would i need for that size tank and how much do u think cost wise with all the components? hey and btw great video
I prefer to use the standard 30 gallon tank like is shown in the video because it gives you enough room for a decent protein skimmer and still have room for other things.
@LimpitsReef i got a bioball filtration and i put a bubble wand in my sump right next to my pump and tiny bubble comes from my powerhead once in a while. do you think that helps more oxgen to my saltwater tank??? please reply me thanks
@LimpitsReef i didnt put bubble wand too close to my return pump otherwise micro bubble comes too much on my powerhead inside my tank but it comes little bit not all the time. can you tell me if thats ok to have better oxygen or not really ??? thank you
Hey, you have some awesome informational videos! I was a little intimidated by the thought of drilling my own tank but I see that it just requires some technique and just some dexterity as well. Thanks a lot for the information. :) Keep up the great videos!
hey guys idk if he said this in the vid but theres 2 things you have to watch for with these, 1 is that if your over flow was to get clogged so your output doesn't pump the hole sump into your main aquarium make sure the output pump is at the top of the water line in the sump, also so that the outputs tube doesn't create a suction make sure to put the output tubes above the main aquarium. hope this helps
i want to move up from a 10 galoon to something bigger what sould i get 30 is out of the question to small of an upgrade i have a 1,500 dollar budget :) plzzz help
I like your video it is very informative and am going to try it myself
Can anyone tell me if there is a calculation on how big your sump must be for you tank and the size of piping or overflow for a 140lt or 4ft marine tank ????
i want to drill my 72 gallon bowfront tank that currently has a hang on overflow box! What size glass whole saw bit should i use and were could i possibly find one? as well were could i possibly find some bulkheads and acrylic for the inside of the tank?
Hey, I starting my 1st saltwater tank with a 150 gal. I have a couple of questions that I would like your opinion on.
1st since my tank is not drilled I will be running dual overflow boxes....any brand recommendation on what brand you trust most?
2nd....I'm questioning the reliability of using flex tube on my overflow boxes instead of PVC.....have you heard of any reliability issues or recommend brands of flex tube?
Hey, I was wondering what type of protein skimmer you incorporated into this setup. I was thinking of going with an ASM G1x w/3500 sedra pump which is used or should I go with a brand new Coralife super skimmer? I was leaning more towards the ASM. What do you think? Thanks limpit
question with this type of sump design when water evaporates out of the tank- will it reduce the water amount in the sump as well or will the sump stay at the same level and only the water in the main tank go down?
Well, I want to get an auto top off and use it with this set-up and it says it is adjustable from 4-9" from the top lip on the sump, So I would want to attach on the side in the last panel? Also i'm guessing I would have to make the last pannel a little little higher up?
I am getting ready to build a sump/refugium for my 75 gal. I noticed a comment on here about it overflowing if the power goes out. If the power went out wouldn't all flow stop? You would need a pump out of the aquarium and a pump back into the aquarium, right? Very new any and all advise would be helpful. I am using a 20 gal tall that I have in the basement already.
No pump is using in the display tank itself, the overflows are a siphon and gravity feed. The overflow issue comes into play if you have a long run of overflow pluming running into too small of a sump. When the power would go out you have all that water in the pipes that has not made it to the sump yet and then the sump will overflow.
not only the water in the pipe going from sump to tank would drop back down to the sump but also the depth of this pipe into the tank, tank water will be siphoned down to the sump until it reaches your pipe's depth in the tank. therefore don't put your in-flow pipe too far down into your tank and definitely not at the bottom. Also, don't fill up your sump with water all the way to the top, incase power runs out and all the above water goes back to the sump, you don't want to flood your basement.
Using a pipe like that comes with a canister filter for use as an overflow pipe to a sump is a very bad idea. You should always use a skim box in the display tank to eliminate draining the tank.
Awesome video! Thanks for taking the time to help us with this DIY. One question, could you tell us what type of acrylic is best? My home depot only caries Optix by Plaskolite rated CC2 plastic. Is that safe and what thickness would you recommend? I bought 1/8". Sufficient? Thanks again! I would suggest checking out your RO unit video to others also.
Im a freshwater enthusiast looking to maybe convert. The one thing I never understood about sumps or wet/dry is what happens if the power goes out and your pump dosnt work? Wouldn't your entire tank drain out onto the floor?
lacrymist1976 4 days ago
@lacrymist1976
Only the amount of water in the overflow and return plumbing will drain into the sump in the event of a power failure. As long as your sump has enough capacity for that there will not be an overflow.
LimpitsReef 4 days ago
Okay, say i was making a "sump" but more of a resevoir to increase water volume. Would i use submersible pumps that have equal gph to bring water from tank, and water to tank?
CardinalFilefish 1 week ago
@CardinalFilefish
Only one pump is used, a return pump.
Check out my other video on the subject Reef Tank Overflow Styles
LimpitsReef 4 days ago
@LimpitsReef Is a refugium necessary? Thanks
~BeckMBSC
BeckMBSC 1 week ago
@BeckMBSC
Its not a necessity but it will provide waste breakdown and a constant food source for the tank by allowing pods to multiply unbothered.
LimpitsReef 1 week ago
what is the difference wether or not one gets micro bubbles?
randy12368 1 week ago
@randy12368
The bubbles if picked up by the return pump will make their way into the display tank and most people find that micro bubbles in the display are unsightly. Also, if you have corals in the tank the micro bubbles can irritate some species.
LimpitsReef 1 week ago
hey bro i need some help... i'm putting glass in front of a cement tank, i have no idea how to do that, how can i stick glass with cement? should i put the glass in a steel frame & then stick the frame in the cement or should i use some kinda glue? & then how can i seal the joints to make it waterproof? i'm do confused, can u help me with that? or give me some links about it plz?
sshhaammiiiiiiiiii 3 weeks ago
@sshhaammiiiiiiiiii
Oh, thats something I have never dealt with. I would highly recommend doing some research on the topic instead of just trying something and finding out it does not work. Sorry that I cannot be of much help with your question. Good luck with your build.
LimpitsReef 1 week ago
cool
allthingsawesome2 2 months ago
how does the bubble trap work please
rats4611 2 months ago
@rats4611
It is a series of acrylic baffles spaced somewhat close together to break up any bubbles that may be in the water column so they do not get pumped back into the display tank.
LimpitsReef 2 months ago
I've heard some negative things about using acrylic baffles in a glass tank. I would like to build my own sump, but a lot of forums I've read say that you should not silicone acrylic to glass because it will not hold. Are there any tips to alleviate this concern?
captnick86 3 months ago
@captnick86
I have never had an issue with a panel coming loose but I always use a brand new tank so everything is clean.
I also use Lexan which is polycarbonate so that may also be the reason.
LimpitsReef 3 months ago
@captnick86
Just make sure you use a lot of silicone when you are securing the baffles. It is true that the silicone does not bind to the acrylic like it does to the glass. So the silicone is used more like book ends for the acrylic.
spitfire304 1 month ago
im planning my design for a sump setup and was wondering: my 60 cube has an overflow built in, and was wondering if the power were to go out would there be possible flooding from the sump? thanks
radicalphantom1 3 months ago
@radicalphantom1
You need to allow extra space in your sump just for that possibility.
LimpitsReef 3 months ago
wow that was a unique way of drilling a hole in the aquarium and it makes so much more sense than the others I have seen such as put running water on the tank as you drill. Thanks for the video and the lesson much appreciated.
MegaPhoenix07 3 months ago
Where do you get the acrylic lexan for a reasonable price and how thick is it?
rbermudez83 3 months ago
@rbermudez83
I use either 1/4" or 3/8" depending on how large of a sump I am building.
I get it from estreetplastics online.
LimpitsReef 3 months ago
I thought most sump setups had the protein skimmer in the first chamber, then the refugium, then finally the return pump. Is there a benefit to having the protein skimmer in the second or third chambers as opposed to it being in the first?
BlGBangAttack 4 months ago
Two questions,1) I have had a number of people on the forums ask why I'm drilling the tank for my sump, since this is my first sump ....I don't know. What is the advantage of drilling and having the inflow from the side Vs just coming in from the top or is it just a personal preference? 2) My tank is a 80g, is the 20g long tank I plan to use for the sump big enough?
sundance2005 4 months ago
@sundance2005
You do not have to drill the tank for the water input line, I just did due to my stand space and to show how to drill glass.
20 Gallon would be ok if thats all you can fit in your stand.
LimpitsReef 4 months ago
@LimpitsReef I have plenty of room, if there were no limitations what would be the ideal size for my sump for my 80g?
P.S. what is (and what does it do) the spinning part on your sump I see in some of the videos?
sundance2005 4 months ago
@sundance2005
I like to use the standard 30 gallon (NOT 29) tank like I show in the video.
Reason is it has a nice footprint to allow you to use some of the larger skimmers.
The sump shown in the overflow types video is just an old (20+ year) wet dry filter. There would have been biomedia of some sort dirrectly under the rotating bar. the rotation of the bar made sure the media would stay wet.
Wet dry filters are old technology and there are better ways of filtering now.
LimpitsReef 4 months ago
It also cools and oxygenizes the water and the inlet box it tends to skim off the nasty oil slick look to the surface of the water which will reduce the amount of light going to your corals. My first tank was a 29 long and it had 50lbs live reef rock and alot of coral 2 clowns and a banded shrimp. The hobby of reef tanks are all trial and error and taking ideas from everyone and see what simplifies your life.
MrTXWolfie 6 months ago
will this model work for a 180 gallon tank?
AngelWing32090 6 months ago
did you do anything to prefilter? im doing a similar setup but i'm putting my skimmer first so i don't get a bunch of detritus in my live rock.
jimmyx36 7 months ago
cheers for the reply so i can make the baffles the same height as in the video but just make the refugium smaller? and i'l be good 2 go?
areUjosh 7 months ago
with the moustache, the low res, oldish looking video, and the corny music, I totally thought this was recorded in the 80's! lol. then I heard him mention Ebay. lol
mozfan2436 7 months ago
Can i copy this exact setup for my 30x15x12" sump which i am going to use with my 48x15x12" tank? would make life alot easier if i could?
areUjosh 7 months ago
@areUjosh
You will have to make one of the chambers smaller as I use 36" long tanks.
I would take or remove that area from the fuge or live rock area.
LimpitsReef 7 months ago
so i can make the baffles the same height? if i make the refuguim a little smaller?
areUjosh 7 months ago
@areUjosh
There are many variables to take into consideration when designing a sump and sometimes it is trial and error to find out what works.
If you copy my baffle size it MAY work but there is no guarantee that it will.
I know that this may not be the answer you are looking for but its the best that I can answer your question.
LimpitsReef 7 months ago
This may be a stupid question, but what does a sump/refugium do? I have a 29Gallon Saltwater and I want to start corals. Do I need a sump/ refugium? I have a canister filter.
Thanks
TheDeltaFlight 9 months ago
@TheDeltaFlight
You do not HAVE to have a sump but they add additional water volume, provide a place to hide equipment and can also house a refugium. A refugium is an area where you can grow macroalgae and provide shelter to pods and other small creatures to provide a continuous live food source for your tank.
LimpitsReef 9 months ago
How about an update on your tank.
newyorksteelo 10 months ago
@newyorksteelo
Right now I am working on a DIY LED lighting system for my 90. When that is completed I should be posting some updated videos.
LimpitsReef 10 months ago
i just love that guy. he has something Ave Ventura like
snip84 11 months ago
@snip84 It's that sweet mustache I think.
YouSoundButtHurt 7 months ago
Any idea on how to build a tank weir?
MrRawr18 11 months ago
@MrRawr18
Sure, I have built several of them.
LimpitsReef 11 months ago
@LimpitsReef Do you have a video or a guide on how to build one I understand how to build a sump now all I need is the weir and I'll be good to go! =D
MrRawr18 11 months ago
@MrRawr18
No video on it, sorry.
Maybe check out Reef Central dot com for the info you need.
LimpitsReef 11 months ago
hello, i loved your video and actually made a DIY sump my self for my 125 gallon aquarium. i added the center space to be a refugium and didn't realize where my protein skimmer be. i bought an eshopps skimmer with a pump in it... i was thinking putting the pump in the first stage, then with a hose atached to the protein skimmer which will in maybe outside with another hose pumping the water inside the tank or maybe inside the refugium which is the second stage. would you recommend this? thanks
LauroSalinas 11 months ago
Hi currently have 30 gallon FW tank which im going to use as a sump for an 80 gallon tank.
I Know you said this has worked for you but I have read that you need the skimmer before the live rock? and when you have live rock you need good water coverage over the rock otherwise nitrate builds up? your help would be appreciated.
Thanks Jon
MrNUFCSMB 1 year ago
I have a question. I have a 60 gallon tank and a delray wetdry filter now since I do no twant to use the bio balls i was thinking of just putting my skimmer into it. Would that work as a sump? its olny like 10 gallons.
karsseboomh22 1 year ago
cheers anyway kid, i was only wondering could i use a sump tank like urs for my 12ft
ming245 1 year ago
nice tank was wondering could i get some advice, im thinking of building a large tank 12 ft long X 4 ft high X 4 ft wide, the reason im building is its cheaper, now i was wondering for a tank this size wat kind of a filtration system would i need, im making a cichlid tank caves and plants, wit sand so was wondering is their a special filter system their to be used
ming245 1 year ago
@ming245
Sorry, but I am the wrong person to ask about freshwater fish.
LimpitsReef 1 year ago
@ming245 just get a canister filter
xxxflanaganxxx 11 months ago
hey there, nice video. i have a question, for a 180 gallon aquarium how big the tank must be for the sump?
LauroSalinas 1 year ago
@LauroSalinas
I would use a 50 gallon if you can fit it. Otherwise 30 would work but would be on the small side.
LimpitsReef 1 year ago
@LimpitsReef
thanks, I'm barely starting my tank and i'll have the diy sump, skimmer, powerhead, lights, what else should ill be using? maybe a pump and which should i use? thanks
LauroSalinas 1 year ago
that is a awsometank
spsaquaria 1 year ago
hey limpit in the video you put up what coral is that its long with 5 arms and it has tiny tentacles on it
seamonster461 1 year ago
can i put plastic instead of acrylic or lexan pannels
seamonster461 1 year ago
@seamonster461
I do not recommend doing so.
LimpitsReef 1 year ago
Can you post a video of this sump running? Thanks
rvasser68 1 year ago
the tank looks good and the sump but can you put up a video on how to install it
seamonster461 1 year ago
can you put up a video of how to install it?
kohinoor786 1 year ago
Hey cawesome vids!! could you please show how to apply the sump to the fish tank? thanks much~
pianomusicart 1 year ago
how thick should the panels be?Do they have to be really thick?My local home depot doesnt sell really thick lexan acrylic
dgonza11 1 year ago
@dgonza11
You need to use thick lexan panels or they may bow and leak. You can always have a glass shop cut you glass to use as panels also.
LimpitsReef 1 year ago
Hey,good news.I got a brand new overflow box.I want to go with a ten gallon sump.What kind of return pump should i get?Also,would coraffix adhesive gel be as good as that super glue gel you use?I also have aquarium silicone sealant.All i need i guess is a glass shop to drill a hole in the side of the sump.
dgonza11 1 year ago
@dgonza11
You don't HAVE to drill the side of the tank to use it as a sump. In fact I would not recommend trying to drill a 10 gallon tank as the glass on some of those is very thin.
You need to match your return pump to just a little less than the GPH rating of your overflow.
LimpitsReef 1 year ago
@LimpitsReef My over flow box is up to 300 gph.What gph should my return pump be?thanks
dgonza11 1 year ago
@dgonza11
Figuring in the head pressure loss I would look at a pump with a rating of 300gph.
LimpitsReef 1 year ago
If anyone here wants to save a little cash on pumps, look into pond pumps.. They seem to be a lot cheaper than salt water pumps and I can’t see any difference between my salt water pump and the other two pond pumps I picked up in a hardware store. They are the same make, impellers are the same and they came with more fittings.. Hope this saves someone a few bucks.
phyriz007 1 year ago
@phyriz007
You just need to be absolutely sure that the pump is saltwater safe.
LimpitsReef 1 year ago
@LimpitsReef No metal shaft make shure its ceramic or plastic.
BobbitoBlaze 1 year ago
Hello! I am sort of new to the hobby. I have a 55 gallon salt water fish tank and am considering starting a reef tank. I was wondering if I could use my Fluval Fx5 canister filter as a return pump/filter from my sump to my main tank.
Or would I have to discard my filter and just get a regular pump to get water to the main tank?
what would you recommend?
keyair123 1 year ago
@keyair123
I cannot recommend using a canister filter to pump the water from your sump back into the display tank. You will be better off buying a return pump and use the canister as a carbon filter or sell it.
LimpitsReef 1 year ago
why dont u reccommend the regular plexi glass?
ryjack26 1 year ago
@ryjack26
Over time regular plexi will absorb water and bow or bend and the panel will fail.
LimpitsReef 1 year ago
Hey dude...These vids have been so helpfull!!! Im using 45gal sump and main tank is 75 gal....how do you know how high to make that last panel in the trap in relation to your return pump? my pump does 3600l/h
Joellyppollie 1 year ago
@Joellyppollie
I generally build the last panel about 2 inches taller than the pump so that the pump stays covered with water.
LimpitsReef 1 year ago
i have a question maybe u could help me on the inlet side can u make a little shelf in it too put bio balls in it or what do u sujest
kevintina11 1 year ago
if you cant afford an overflow you cant afford a reef..lol
Dimechj 1 year ago
Hi again,what other options that are cheaper do i have for a drain from my marine tank to the sump?An overflow box is a little too expensive for me right now.Also what are cheaper options for a return pump water flow from my sump back to my marine tank?Thanks
dgonza11 1 year ago
@dgonza11
Maybe you could find a used overflow box if you are short on funds. Only other option is to drill your tank.
As for a cheaper return pump option, once again look for used if you dont have the money for new.
LimpitsReef 1 year ago
Hi,what kind of acrylic do u mean i should use for my sump?
dgonza11 1 year ago
@dgonza11
Lexan
LimpitsReef 1 year ago
wow.great vid.turns out i have a spare 10 gallon tank that fits perfectly under my main tank now im planning on making a sump
dgonza11 1 year ago
i just want to thank you very much for doing a lot of these videos. It actually helps some of us (if we are a handy person) on doing these things on our own. you are awesome!
suprmax 1 year ago
hi.. what is the ideal nitrite, nitrate and ph levels for saltwater tank??? how to use the test kits?? how often the recommendable water change or maintenance for the tank???
kissmarkhing 1 year ago
@kissmarkhing
Ideal nitrate and nitrite would of course be zero. pH would be at least 8.
You should do at least 10% water change weekly.
LimpitsReef 1 year ago
HI..what D.I.Y mean
lemm959 1 year ago
@lemm959
D.I.Y. = Do It Yourself
LimpitsReef 1 year ago
Hi limp I'm making my own ply/glass 1000 litre plus FOWLR and may go in to the realm of corals how would you filter something like this? How big does my sump have to be and what is the cheapest materials to use
The wife won't miss the bath would she ?
MsStubsy 1 year ago
@MsStubsy
I always recommend to use the largest sump you can fit under the tank. The more water volume the better.
LimpitsReef 1 year ago
great..! this video is really informative.. can u give me some advice what is the ideal sump tank size that im going to use for my 50 gal reef tank??? since i dont have any materials to use, what is the ideal size per divider section on sump tank?? since i plan to buy a ready made sump tank.. also what are the other way on how to connect the pvc on my main tank since it set up already??? is in need to make a hole on it?? hope u can help me on this.. thanks!!!
kissmarkhing 1 year ago
hi... i have 50gal salt water tank.. aside from sump tank, theres have an option or other ways on how to keep my water in good condition??? or it is really need or requirements for this type of tank??? hope you can help me to improve my tank..
kissmarkhing 1 year ago
@kissmarkhing
While a sump is not a "must have" for a tank it does provide extra water volume and a place to house a protein skimmer.
To keep water quality top notch you will need test kits to monitor the water quality and do proper water changes with RO water. Do not overfeed your fish and feed them a quality food.
LimpitsReef 1 year ago
if your using live rock in a sump are you going to put lights over it? im just now thinking about a tank, thanks.
Liz4rdM4n1214 1 year ago
Hi, I have a Rena Filstar XP3 canister filtar and I am looking into building a sump based off of your model. Do you know if it would be possible to place the filter intake inside the sump so when the water has gone through the sump, it then goes through the canister filter and then back into the tank. Thanks
austewartau 1 year ago
@austewartau
I guess you could do that but you will not get as much flow through the system as you would with a submersible pump.
LimpitsReef 1 year ago
How are you going to make your bubble trap?
austewartau 1 year ago
Buddy is it possible to drill holes on a 10 gallon tank.
razaaztlantexican 1 year ago
razaaztlantexican,
It is very difficult to drill the non tempered 10 gallon tanks as the glass is pretty thin but I have seen it done.
If the tank is tempered then you CANNOT drill it.
LimpitsReef 1 year ago
nice vid ! I am starting a 55 gallon saltwater & a 10 gallon diy sump with 1inch pvc overflow ,40 inches from sump bottom to top tank. What size return pump would i need can u help me please??
jds60475 1 year ago
jds60475,
Not knowing the GPH rating of your overflow makes this a tough question.
I would look at something in the 500 GPH range if I were to take a guess on it.
LimpitsReef 1 year ago
I have a spare 30 gallon tank that I've been wanting to turn into a sump for my 75 gallon. My question is have you seen any sump design work without drilled holes? Using 2 similar power pumps from the main tank into the sump, and vise versa?
teakz89 1 year ago
teakz89,
Using a pump to move the water from the main tank to the sump is a very bad idea. You need to either drill the tank of use a hang on the back overflow to get the water to the sump.
LimpitsReef 1 year ago
would you recomend bioballs or live rock for my 12 reef tank filter?
mrperryguitar 1 year ago
Live rock
LimpitsReef 1 year ago
could you just use plain old glass?
mrperryguitar 1 year ago
Yes
LimpitsReef 1 year ago
@LimpitsReef ive only got a small 12 gallon nano cube and was wondering since my cabinet is small if it would be worth making a sump and refuge for it dimensions: 31,28,28?
mrperryguitar 1 year ago
More water volume is always a good thing.
LimpitsReef 1 year ago
why do you recommend using the acrylic rather than regular plexiglass?
spanishcastelmagic 1 year ago
Regular plexi will bow over time causing the panels to come loose.
LimpitsReef 1 year ago
im planning on setting up a 50 gal and i want a sump for it, how big of a sump would i need for that size tank and how much do u think cost wise with all the components? hey and btw great video
lochie407 1 year ago
I prefer to use the standard 30 gallon tank like is shown in the video because it gives you enough room for a decent protein skimmer and still have room for other things.
LimpitsReef 1 year ago
I couldn't catch what panels you used acrylic...?
ollieflp 1 year ago
Lexan brand polycarbonate.
LimpitsReef 1 year ago
@LimpitsReef i got a bioball filtration and i put a bubble wand in my sump right next to my pump and tiny bubble comes from my powerhead once in a while. do you think that helps more oxgen to my saltwater tank??? please reply me thanks
ji3200 1 year ago
Yes it would but don't you get micro bubbles in your display tank then?
LimpitsReef 1 year ago
@LimpitsReef i didnt put bubble wand too close to my return pump otherwise micro bubble comes too much on my powerhead inside my tank but it comes little bit not all the time. can you tell me if thats ok to have better oxygen or not really ??? thank you
ji3200 1 year ago
In my opinion, not really.
LimpitsReef 1 year ago
Very nice...
TechGagd 1 year ago
Hey, you have some awesome informational videos! I was a little intimidated by the thought of drilling my own tank but I see that it just requires some technique and just some dexterity as well. Thanks a lot for the information. :) Keep up the great videos!
karakzhen 1 year ago
Hey limp im building a 30g sump. What were the measurements of your panels?
theking1206 1 year ago
hey guys idk if he said this in the vid but theres 2 things you have to watch for with these, 1 is that if your over flow was to get clogged so your output doesn't pump the hole sump into your main aquarium make sure the output pump is at the top of the water line in the sump, also so that the outputs tube doesn't create a suction make sure to put the output tubes above the main aquarium. hope this helps
iwimp1994 2 years ago
This is true and I will be going over all of this information in a future video.
LimpitsReef 2 years ago
i want to move up from a 10 galoon to something bigger what sould i get 30 is out of the question to small of an upgrade i have a 1,500 dollar budget :) plzzz help
ps.the 1,500 is soupposed to be for fish too
kno3rocks 2 years ago
craigslist. got a 45 gallon for 75$ w everyrthing ineed
Ibanez3213 1 year ago
Gey Limpit, would a normal 10 gallon tank for a sump be sufficient for a 36 gallon reef tank?
KingBonacci 2 years ago
IMO, a ten is too small to really do much of anything except to be used as a fuge.
LimpitsReef 2 years ago
I like your video it is very informative and am going to try it myself
Can anyone tell me if there is a calculation on how big your sump must be for you tank and the size of piping or overflow for a 140lt or 4ft marine tank ????
ScorpioSting6411 2 years ago
As far as how large of a sump to use I have read that 30% of your display tanks water volume is a good rule to go by.
LimpitsReef 2 years ago
what type of acrylic are you useing and were did you buy it
great video thanks
letumburn 2 years ago
Like I state in the video I use Lexan.
You can find it online at many places if you cannot buy in your area.
LimpitsReef 2 years ago
@LimpitsReef
Can you tell me what the thickness of the Lexan you used was?
Thanks for your help.
liberatorboat 2 years ago
I have used 1/4" and 3/8" to build sumps
LimpitsReef 2 years ago
@LimpitsReef
Thanks!
liberatorboat 2 years ago
could i use plexi glass
player11900 2 years ago
No, in time it will swell and bend. You will then loose the seal against the sump glass.
LimpitsReef 2 years ago
would the super glue kill the fish/corals?Also how big should a sump be for a 55 gallon fish tank?
HUNK71232 2 years ago
@HUNK71232 ide say about 10g
iwimp1994 2 years ago
You mentioned that the tank width was 11.5 inchs. So do you need to leave any clearace for the width of the acrylic panal?
MrGnrnut 2 years ago
Yes, about 1/8" of clearance.
LimpitsReef 2 years ago
i want to drill my 72 gallon bowfront tank that currently has a hang on overflow box! What size glass whole saw bit should i use and were could i possibly find one? as well were could i possibly find some bulkheads and acrylic for the inside of the tank?
sick4rd 2 years ago
Type in "bulkhead flow calculator" into a search and you should find all the information you need.
LimpitsReef 2 years ago
for a 30 gallon, what should be the gph of an overflow box and pump? I want them to be able to keep up with each other.
jasongorny 2 years ago
I see it's a dewalt 18v, your drilling on speed setting 2 right? What about the clutch setting? On the screw?
lilredwuck 2 years ago
Use the highest speed possible and full clutch like for drilling holes.
LimpitsReef 2 years ago
I just bought a DVD from EBay (UK) and it is the same Video, the seller claims they have the copyright, is this true??
komplexpro 2 years ago
No, if it is the same exact video as you see here they do not have permission to use it as it is me in this video and I own all rights.
LimpitsReef 2 years ago
After doing some searching I believe I found the DVD you are referring to.
While it may be the same idea as I show here it is not my video.
LimpitsReef 2 years ago
were can you get you plexi or lexan at orderd of the internet, home depot? were
7milewest 2 years ago
DO NOT USE REGULAR PLEXI TO DO THIS.
Lexan can be found on many online sites, just do a search for it.
LimpitsReef 2 years ago
Why cant I use plexy glass?
krazykyle88 2 years ago
Over time plain old plexiglass will absorb a little water, swell and then the panels will either bow or crack the tank.
Lexan does not absorb any water and is much stronger than plexi.
LimpitsReef 2 years ago
Comment removed
jhunt1229 2 years ago
what is a sump
vanhalenman60 2 years ago
hey, would this work on a fish only sw tank? im planning on a 35g sump for a 75g tank
1weedman 2 years ago
Sure
LimpitsReef 2 years ago
Comment removed
jeenagail 2 years ago
Hello, What thickness of plastic did you use, it looks like 12MM?
weedonl 2 years ago
3/8"
LimpitsReef 2 years ago
where do i buy the arcrylic sheets?
paintball2extremes27 2 years ago
Check your local Yellow Pages for "plastics".
LimpitsReef 2 years ago
Hey, I starting my 1st saltwater tank with a 150 gal. I have a couple of questions that I would like your opinion on.
1st since my tank is not drilled I will be running dual overflow boxes....any brand recommendation on what brand you trust most?
2nd....I'm questioning the reliability of using flex tube on my overflow boxes instead of PVC.....have you heard of any reliability issues or recommend brands of flex tube?
Thanks for all the informative vids and thanks!
letour23 2 years ago
I have only used overflow boxes that I have built so I cannot comment on any one brand being better than the other.
I have never had any issues with flex hose, I think it is more the installer than the hose that causes the issues.
LimpitsReef 2 years ago
Hey, I was wondering what type of protein skimmer you incorporated into this setup. I was thinking of going with an ASM G1x w/3500 sedra pump which is used or should I go with a brand new Coralife super skimmer? I was leaning more towards the ASM. What do you think? Thanks limpit
TheOneAndOnlyProdigy 2 years ago
I would choose the ASM model over the Coralife hands down, there is no comparison between the two.
LimpitsReef 2 years ago
I have a question about drilling the glass, can i use any hole saw or should i use a carbide grit or diamond hole saw? thank you for the help
dinhy34 2 years ago
It needs to be a hole saw used for glass or tile cutting. All the ones I have are diamond encrusted.
LimpitsReef 2 years ago
question with this type of sump design when water evaporates out of the tank- will it reduce the water amount in the sump as well or will the sump stay at the same level and only the water in the main tank go down?
AC2020x 2 years ago
You will see the evap cause the water level in the very last chamber of the sump to go down. The level will stay the same in the display tank.
LimpitsReef 2 years ago
Well, I want to get an auto top off and use it with this set-up and it says it is adjustable from 4-9" from the top lip on the sump, So I would want to attach on the side in the last panel? Also i'm guessing I would have to make the last pannel a little little higher up?
Thanks
-AC
AC2020x 2 years ago
You are correct or fabricate a different mount for the level sensor.
LimpitsReef 2 years ago
I am getting ready to build a sump/refugium for my 75 gal. I noticed a comment on here about it overflowing if the power goes out. If the power went out wouldn't all flow stop? You would need a pump out of the aquarium and a pump back into the aquarium, right? Very new any and all advise would be helpful. I am using a 20 gal tall that I have in the basement already.
101MrMom 2 years ago
No pump is using in the display tank itself, the overflows are a siphon and gravity feed. The overflow issue comes into play if you have a long run of overflow pluming running into too small of a sump. When the power would go out you have all that water in the pipes that has not made it to the sump yet and then the sump will overflow.
LimpitsReef 2 years ago
not only the water in the pipe going from sump to tank would drop back down to the sump but also the depth of this pipe into the tank, tank water will be siphoned down to the sump until it reaches your pipe's depth in the tank. therefore don't put your in-flow pipe too far down into your tank and definitely not at the bottom. Also, don't fill up your sump with water all the way to the top, incase power runs out and all the above water goes back to the sump, you don't want to flood your basement.
sadeed2 2 years ago
Using a pipe like that comes with a canister filter for use as an overflow pipe to a sump is a very bad idea. You should always use a skim box in the display tank to eliminate draining the tank.
LimpitsReef 2 years ago
Awesome video! Thanks for taking the time to help us with this DIY. One question, could you tell us what type of acrylic is best? My home depot only caries Optix by Plaskolite rated CC2 plastic. Is that safe and what thickness would you recommend? I bought 1/8". Sufficient? Thanks again! I would suggest checking out your RO unit video to others also.
reefnoob 2 years ago
I use 1/4" Lexan polycarbonate for shorter panels and 3/8" for taller panels.
1/8" regular acrylic is too thin an