I've got a 120 gallon that developed a small leak in the corner from a small cut in the silicone. What kind of silicon did you use? I want to make sure I use the right stuff. Thanks!
do you sell pie shaped overflows? my tank is 18" high. i saw on your ebay that you sell the pie shaped covers so i was wondering if you sell the covers
can you tell me how did you apply the silicon on both sides of each panel of the 3 pieces air trap panels? I could only apply silicon on both sides of the first panel. And I could not apply the silicon on both sides of the remaining two panels. thanks
I use a long skinny piece of dowel to apply the silicon and then smooth it out with the same dowel that I attached a piece of flat pliable plastic to.
Where do you get the acrylic sheets? Can I just pick them up at a hardware store like lowes or home depot? Will any kind do or is there a special kind of sheet you use?
Thanks for this video incredible informative. Now, I am a novice to the hobby and am interested in how you actually connect the sump to the tank. I'm sure this is a simple question but..If you could enlighten me that would be greatly appreciated..possibly a video..Thanks a bunch!! By the way your tanks are amazing!
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
Can you build(use) a sump for a fresh water aquarium? I am building a 250 gallon aquarum out of wood and I am trying to figure out how to filter it. Oh and what size sump should I have (use) if I can use one?
It is here in the states, if you can not find it by you maybe order through internet. Just make sure that it is aquarium safe as not all silicone sealants are aquarium safe.
@LimpitsReef 100% silicone is, 100% silicone, thats what Aquarium Silicone is. I used GE 100% Silicone Sealant CLEAR nothing happened to it. I used it in my fresh water pond. You can use only Clear & MAYBE white, anything colored might be toxic, if the color is clear, and says 100% Silicone, its Aquarium Safe. The only difference is they don't recommended to use it for aquarium construction cause they don't want a law suit, Aquarium Silicone is almost always concentrated and stronger.
I cut the slits to disperse the water a little going into the sump, that piece was not glued in so it can be removed. I glued the other side in to avoid a leak or worse yet the pipe coming off and causing a flood.
Im trying to build a sump like this for some freshwater tanks im going to be putting together for breeding jewel chiclids. im going ot be using 3 33gal tanks all divided in two. what type of return pump would you recommend to supply water to all six tanks?
Excellent video. Well lit, no shakes, verbally comprehensive. Now you just need to do a 'part 3,' showing the unit in action. Couple of questions: 1) Are the microbubbles due to the protein skimmer? 2) Why not make the left most divider taller, so as to guide the bubbles more toward the top - leaving the return pump at the bottom in clear water? Lastly, do you think this high capacity filter would rob too many nutrients in a planted fresh water tank (other filter materials, naturally)?
Great video! Hey I am getting ready to use a 55g tank into a sump for my 160g bowfront tank. I have 2 questions regarding a sump. I have a AquaC RX-1 Calcium Reactor w/Caribsea ARM, Dlx CO2 Regulator, Dual Gauge, Solenoid, 5lb CO2 Cylinder and a AquaC EV-180 Protein Skimmer w/ JG Fitting + Rio 3100 Pump. Do you think I can fit the calcium reactor, co2, protein skimmer and have room for a small refugium?
Do you have any suggestions for a good return pump?
Probably should have used glass. I personally hate bonding acrylic to glass because its never a perfect seal. As a matter of fact, when the acrylic bows, theres a chance your entire sump could break.
@LimpitsReef Not to sound like a jerk or anything... I mean, its a great video, but a lot of people use plexiglass when they say "Acrylic". I honestly only heard acrylic.
great videos very helpful, BUT take it from a shower installer who uses silicone everyday, those squeeze out silicone tubes are rubbish, I used one for about 10mins and the bloody thing punctured an made a mess, had to go over with my rag an clean it until it was smooth for about 15mins.Always get a chalking gun an a industrial sized silicone tube.If you are having trouble fitting it into corners because there is not enough space, use pliers to bend the plastic nozzle :) works like a charm
how do i keep the water level in my tank stable? i keep trying to turn the ball valve so that it stays stable but i cant seem to get it to stay level? im about to give up on overflow filtering. please help
Hey good Vid, But I was wonderin if I could get a lil help with getting the sump running.. I'm taking care of a friends tank and the pump to the sump tank stopped working and I dont know how to get it pumpin back to the tank again, There also is a bag in there and I took it out to clean it and I'm not sure how to put it back? Any advice from anyone? Some of the fish have already died.. I'm in big trouble!!! Please help!!!!
Ahh right I assumed it was the return pump as I've never seen a sump drilled to accommodate the overflow plumbing from the main display. Thanks for taking the time to clear that up for me.
You don't HAVE to drill the inlet. I did it due to my stands configuration and to show how to drill glass. Most people just run the inlet on the top of the sump.
A few questions- where you've drilled the sump for the return pump the placement for the hole is at the top of the sump as opposed to the bottom what are the pro's of this? If there's a power outage while you're out and your pump is not a self priming type as most are not would the pump fail to feed water back to the main tank once power is restored due to the inlet/suction being drilled in the top rather than the bottom of the tank? Many thanks
Good video... But could you tell me why a sump is so important, I have a fish only tank now and im planning on changing it to a coral tank and I have a canister, and wet dry filter, and skimmer, but i dont understand why i need the sump, i can see myself unpluging wet dry filter becasue it gives to much nutrients for corals but i dont see where sump comes in?
A sump will supply more water volume and give you a place to house a decent protein skimmer. It also can be used to grow macro algae with will absorb excess nutrients from your tank.
How did you go about getting the silicon down into the hard to reach bottom portions of the bubble trap after you saw the leak? Also do you reccomend or have experience with rplasticsdotcom fir ordering precut sheets?
Thank you so much for this very informative video! I give it 5 stars, and I am definitely subscribing to see what is coming next! Do you think a video (or maybe just a description) on how to install the sump into an aquarium would be possible? Thanks again!
Depending on what your using the sump for? If its just to store your equipment, i.e skimmer, heater then its fine. May be too small to house all your equipment and a DSB.
without a bunch of light, the live rock will die off and not be much use as a filter. that skimmer is ok for a tank under 50 gallons. Why not use a 3-4 foot tall hang on skimmer and do the Berlin method letting the live rock in the tank be the filter, this way you will not be pushing so much water over the rock in the sump. that type of hose will also become brittle when exposed to saltwater. get medical grade hosing (it is clear) it costs more but is well worth it.
cheers 1 more thing i can probly get a 2nd hand tank for say $50 for a 4 foot to use as a sump what kind of pumps ect would i need to keep this all flowing perfectly also with protein skimmers whats the diff with the cheap 1s and the $400+ ones soz for so many questions its just im settin up a sump soon as iv been runnin my tank on the aqua one marisys 240
Pump needs to be matched to your overflows rating. Some higher priced skimmers will pull more skimmate than others. This will be covered in a future video.
i own a 250-280 liter tank its been running for the passed 2 months on an aqua marisys 240 setup witch had the protein skimmer - and every thing else in 1 kinda thing but latly been been failing so im going to build a sump what size tank should i use to build a sump for like 70-80 gallon (i also have a mantis shrimp tank (2 foot witch ill be building a mini sump for that 1 also
what do you think the size of the panel would be? sorry got no idea about doing this and calculation... im just following this video. thanks a lot in advance!
You should do some online research on sump design then to find what would work best. Otherwise sell the 200L tank and buy a standard 30 gallon tank and follow my video.
i have a 14g tank with fish in it i want a sump i have a 10g and am going to buy acrylic glass or w.e name is can u help me with a dimension or tell me how to do it for smaller tank
Sorry, but you will have to research the smaller sump design on your own. My attempt at making a smaller sump (on my old 20 gallon tank) worked but not very well.
For me the whole reason to have a sump is for having additional live rock rubble and to house a protein skimmer and all my other equipment to keep it out of the display tank. That being said a 10 gallon is just too small for my application.
It all really depends on what equipment you want to have in the sump. I like to use the standard 30 gallon size tanks because they give me a lot of room to do things with.
So I have a mag 7 return pump rated a 700gph- If I put the same spacing in my bubble trap enough water will make it though in time so it doesn't start running dry? I'm worried that the bubble trap will not let the water though quick enough and cause some type of flooding???
I am running just over 900 GPH through my sumps with the spacing shown in the video with no problems. If you are going to use a tank narrower than a standard 30 gallon you may have issues though.
Thanks for the great video! Made the work much easier. I have one question, sump is great, water tight seals on baffles, only problem is I spaced the baffles too far; about 2" apart. will that reduce effect of my bubble trap? I really don't want to tear the baffles out and start over.
The sump does not HAVE to be drilled. Only reason I drilled this one was I needed the intake on the side due to my stands configuration and to show you how to drill glass.
Ya i know i just thought maby you would give people advice on like using ball valves.. .or something like that... just commenting... i agree its easy.. Just theres a lot of things peeps can do wrong.. Like valve on intake of pump... stuff like that...
Ya i dont have paypal... im going to buy that flex hose thing you have on your ebay store.... also if you were to put a few of those Maxijet with sureflow mods up i could use some...
LimpitsReef, do you have a book? You should write one. I just made a version of the sump in this video. Still have the silicone in my nose. 24hrs from now I hope not to find a leak!!!! I did use a 29 gallon, the only one you mentioned you shouldn't use. Its the only thing I had laying around. Its for a 90 gal that I want to build. Would be nice to set one up like yours. Very nice!
so let me get this straight water comes in from ur fish tank then it goes thru a chamber then thru the protein skimmer then thru another chamber and back to the tank how would that filter the tank
if i had the cash i would, however, that is the reason im watching videos like this, is because i dont have a lot if money, so my reef tank as of this point, except for the pumps is compleatly DIY good luck with ur camcorder
Why the heck would anyone go through the side with all those chances for leaks when the top is open for business. I throw up my hands at such decisions. Keep in mind, I was a safety engineer while working. Safety First.
While if you are good at sealing you can put the entire assembly together, however if you have the time take 2-3 days an install and test for leaks as you go. Install the return wall seal, wait 24 hours test for leaks then move on, install the bubble trap and skimmer wall then wait 24 hours test for leaks then move on, ( you can install the fuge wall also on day 2 as it leaves enough room to allow touchups without much trouble.
How do you rate an overflow. I am going to have a custom tank built with an external overflow. I am planning on a return pump rated for about 1,000 GPH. I have been wondering how wide I need to make my overflow. Also, the depth of the overflow from the top of the tank. How is this determined?
You need to choose an overflow rated larger than the maximum possible output of your return pump. For example, you have a pump rated at 500 GPH then you would use an overflow rated for 600 GPH or larger. This way the overflow can keep up with the pump.
would it be a good idea to make a sump without the protien skimmer? dont really want to get a skimmer but a sump would be pretty good to have i dont know if not having the skimmer makes a sump useless or not , basically making my own filter
if someone experiences a wild bead of caulk that they want to clean up (make uniform... not remove) you can try cutting a piece of potato as a tool for "pulling" caulk. the caulk doesn't stick to the potato because of it's wet consistency.
Great video, very informative. Question though: What's the benefit of drilling into the side of the glass and having the overflow drain the water into the sump that way? Wouldn't a hose or pipe straight through the open top of the tank be easier and cheaper than purchasing a diamond tip bit and less risky than drilling?
One of the best demos Iv seen. Very professional diy for cheap. Excellent vids! Whats the next one going to be on any ideas yet? After the sure flow one that is sorry. One idea Iv had is why to not go and get the really picky eaters and the really hard to keep as a ametuer aquarist. Also which types they are and maybe an alternative. So many places sell anything and will tell you anything just to sell it and if you dont fully understand it its a death sentence for the fish. THANKS KEEP IT UP!
Question, It seems like once you install one of the three panels for the bubble trap, it would be difficult to access BOTH sides with the silicone as you said is necessary. One inch clearance for that tube of silicone plus your hand doesn't seem possible.???
i need to know if there are any differences if i were to do this for freshwater. and could i make this cheaper in any way by not using acrylic panels or an actual aquarium?
very helpful
MRSHIBBYSHIBBYSHIBBY 1 month ago
what is the size of this sump in inches?
sshhaammiiiiiiiiii 1 month ago
@sshhaammiiiiiiiiii
36x12x16
LimpitsReef 1 month ago
@LimpitsReef thanks man !!!!!
sshhaammiiiiiiiiii 1 month ago
very well explained.Would love to see some more of your tanks and that breeder tank
chargin22 2 months ago
I've got a 120 gallon that developed a small leak in the corner from a small cut in the silicone. What kind of silicon did you use? I want to make sure I use the right stuff. Thanks!
bluechevelle 4 months ago
Thanks man
HEYimfilminghere 6 months ago
Um, where's Part 3!? That would be great... I need some help w/ the plumbing!!
mominapod 6 months ago
How do you determine if the tank you are going to use can be safely drilled or can any tank be drilled with the proper bit?
sundance2005 7 months ago
@sundance2005
Not every tank can be drilled.
If it has tempered glass you cannot drill it.
If you do not know if your tank has tempered glass or not you need to contact the tank manufacturer to find out.
LimpitsReef 7 months ago
Hello,
I really want to DIY sump on my 29g biocube, I was thinking of a 10g sump I just don't know how I would size the baffles and stuff?
LBCREEFER 7 months ago
do you sell pie shaped overflows? my tank is 18" high. i saw on your ebay that you sell the pie shaped covers so i was wondering if you sell the covers
xdennis8x 9 months ago
@xdennis8x
I have the covers but not the overflows themselves.
LimpitsReef 9 months ago
@mistaevanson
Only way I have set up tanks with a sump is by using an overflow, either by using a hang on back type or a drilled tank.
LimpitsReef 11 months ago
can you tell me how did you apply the silicon on both sides of each panel of the 3 pieces air trap panels? I could only apply silicon on both sides of the first panel. And I could not apply the silicon on both sides of the remaining two panels. thanks
rarityd 11 months ago
@rarityd
I use a long skinny piece of dowel to apply the silicon and then smooth it out with the same dowel that I attached a piece of flat pliable plastic to.
LimpitsReef 11 months ago
can you post an installation video?
omgoprah 11 months ago
can you post an installation video
omgoprah 11 months ago
I found this video really informing thanks maybe I'll try to make a 10gallon for starters
MrRawr18 11 months ago
Good job man.. You need to do more of this videos, it's so helpful to those who want to learn more.. Thanks man..
8382rascal 1 year ago
sweet DIY video. do you mind if i share this video on the reefcollege forum?
ReefCollege 1 year ago
what happend to this guy?
vdre3 1 year ago
Where do you get the acrylic sheets? Can I just pick them up at a hardware store like lowes or home depot? Will any kind do or is there a special kind of sheet you use?
chewwy1210 1 year ago
Thanks for this video incredible informative. Now, I am a novice to the hobby and am interested in how you actually connect the sump to the tank. I'm sure this is a simple question but..If you could enlighten me that would be greatly appreciated..possibly a video..Thanks a bunch!! By the way your tanks are amazing!
cflynn628 1 year ago
how thick are your lexan panels?Do they have to be really thick?
dgonza11 1 year ago
@dgonza11
You need to use thick Lexan or else use glass.
LimpitsReef 1 year ago
@dgonza11 can you tell him to put on how to install
seamonster461 1 year ago
This video was very helpful, this will be my first salwater tank so having the section for the protein skimmer is wonderful.
Jrezky 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
Can you build(use) a sump for a fresh water aquarium? I am building a 250 gallon aquarum out of wood and I am trying to figure out how to filter it. Oh and what size sump should I have (use) if I can use one?
canadianhotbod1 1 year ago
i love it but i was wondering if you could do a full video from sump to full setup???????????????????????? onto the main tank
mralexsale 1 year ago
Very helpful. Thanks for taking the time to make these videos
ReefGuy2008 1 year ago
what is the importance of the slits you made in the pipe coming into sump to disperse water?
Joellyppollie 1 year ago
is silicone sealant available in all store hardwares?
xHizukax 1 year ago
@xHizukax
It is here in the states, if you can not find it by you maybe order through internet. Just make sure that it is aquarium safe as not all silicone sealants are aquarium safe.
LimpitsReef 1 year ago
@LimpitsReef oki... thanks mate.
xHizukax 1 year ago
@LimpitsReef 100% silicone is, 100% silicone, thats what Aquarium Silicone is. I used GE 100% Silicone Sealant CLEAR nothing happened to it. I used it in my fresh water pond. You can use only Clear & MAYBE white, anything colored might be toxic, if the color is clear, and says 100% Silicone, its Aquarium Safe. The only difference is they don't recommended to use it for aquarium construction cause they don't want a law suit, Aquarium Silicone is almost always concentrated and stronger.
Arteolike 1 year ago
How are you supposed to silicone the inside of the outer panels on the bubble trap? the silicone tube wont fit down the 1" gap?
Steelzuk 1 year ago
@Steelzuk
I used a dowel to apply the silicone in the tight areas.
LimpitsReef 1 year ago
@LimpitsReef
ok cheers
Steelzuk 1 year ago
Hey man nice videos.
1) Why did you cut slits in the pvc piece that goes into 1st chamber?
2) Why did you glue the pvc that was joined to flex tube into the bulkhead? what if you need to remove?
Joellyppollie 1 year ago
@Joellyppollie
I cut the slits to disperse the water a little going into the sump, that piece was not glued in so it can be removed. I glued the other side in to avoid a leak or worse yet the pipe coming off and causing a flood.
LimpitsReef 1 year ago
@xbk62x
A bubble trap stops bubbles that are created by the sump from flowing into your display tank. Bubbles in a reef tank are undesirable.
LimpitsReef 1 year ago
Hey Limpits
Im trying to build a sump like this for some freshwater tanks im going to be putting together for breeding jewel chiclids. im going ot be using 3 33gal tanks all divided in two. what type of return pump would you recommend to supply water to all six tanks?
slikwilly66 1 year ago
great vid would have liked to see it in action
donniefias 1 year ago
Excellent video. Well lit, no shakes, verbally comprehensive. Now you just need to do a 'part 3,' showing the unit in action. Couple of questions: 1) Are the microbubbles due to the protein skimmer? 2) Why not make the left most divider taller, so as to guide the bubbles more toward the top - leaving the return pump at the bottom in clear water? Lastly, do you think this high capacity filter would rob too many nutrients in a planted fresh water tank (other filter materials, naturally)?
PalJoey1957 1 year ago
When you doing more vids
dm002a8686 1 year ago
HeY Limpit
Great video! Hey I am getting ready to use a 55g tank into a sump for my 160g bowfront tank. I have 2 questions regarding a sump. I have a AquaC RX-1 Calcium Reactor w/Caribsea ARM, Dlx CO2 Regulator, Dual Gauge, Solenoid, 5lb CO2 Cylinder and a AquaC EV-180 Protein Skimmer w/ JG Fitting + Rio 3100 Pump. Do you think I can fit the calcium reactor, co2, protein skimmer and have room for a small refugium?
Do you have any suggestions for a good return pump?
tannersmith2000 1 year ago
@tannersmith2000
I use Eheim brand pumps on all of my tanks that use returns.
LimpitsReef 1 year ago
Probably should have used glass. I personally hate bonding acrylic to glass because its never a perfect seal. As a matter of fact, when the acrylic bows, theres a chance your entire sump could break.
mak3myda3 1 year ago
@mak3myda3
That is why I use (and stated in the video) that I use Lexan acrylic.
I have NEVER had a panel bow or fail me since I have been making sumps.
LimpitsReef 1 year ago
@LimpitsReef Not to sound like a jerk or anything... I mean, its a great video, but a lot of people use plexiglass when they say "Acrylic". I honestly only heard acrylic.
mak3myda3 1 year ago
love it might use it to make my own
The1Reef 1 year ago
you only silicone one side of the last baffle on your bubble trap? Is that stable?
DiegoTip44 1 year ago
@DiegoTip44
Well it has worked for over 2 years no with no issues.
LimpitsReef 1 year ago
i watched the videos and great job on both thanks for the vids!!
quicka6 1 year ago
How are you going to make your bubble trap?
austewartau 1 year ago
@austewartau
It is the last 3 panels in the sump, just like I explained.
LimpitsReef 1 year ago
great videos very helpful, BUT take it from a shower installer who uses silicone everyday, those squeeze out silicone tubes are rubbish, I used one for about 10mins and the bloody thing punctured an made a mess, had to go over with my rag an clean it until it was smooth for about 15mins.Always get a chalking gun an a industrial sized silicone tube.If you are having trouble fitting it into corners because there is not enough space, use pliers to bend the plastic nozzle :) works like a charm
burrowssj 1 year ago
how do i keep the water level in my tank stable? i keep trying to turn the ball valve so that it stays stable but i cant seem to get it to stay level? im about to give up on overflow filtering. please help
mrperryguitar 1 year ago
Great video... thanks for posting!
jaybird093 1 year ago
Hey good Vid, But I was wonderin if I could get a lil help with getting the sump running.. I'm taking care of a friends tank and the pump to the sump tank stopped working and I dont know how to get it pumpin back to the tank again, There also is a bag in there and I took it out to clean it and I'm not sure how to put it back? Any advice from anyone? Some of the fish have already died.. I'm in big trouble!!! Please help!!!!
migue24 1 year ago
is there a way to have the sump be the overflow as well or what would u suggest to use for and over a HOB i would like to have it under with the sump
allstar0230 1 year ago
I wish I would have thought of the superglue LOL
mconroy17 1 year ago
wouldn't it be bad for the fish putting in supper glue in the tank
oscar2hot4u 1 year ago
No, it is perfectly fine to use the glue.
I have been doing it for many years.
LimpitsReef 1 year ago
Ahh right I assumed it was the return pump as I've never seen a sump drilled to accommodate the overflow plumbing from the main display. Thanks for taking the time to clear that up for me.
fringe6666 1 year ago
You don't HAVE to drill the inlet. I did it due to my stands configuration and to show how to drill glass. Most people just run the inlet on the top of the sump.
LimpitsReef 1 year ago
Great Video
A few questions- where you've drilled the sump for the return pump the placement for the hole is at the top of the sump as opposed to the bottom what are the pro's of this? If there's a power outage while you're out and your pump is not a self priming type as most are not would the pump fail to feed water back to the main tank once power is restored due to the inlet/suction being drilled in the top rather than the bottom of the tank? Many thanks
fringe6666 1 year ago
I do not know what type of pumps you are using but every pump I have will start on its own. The hole that i drilled is the water inlet, not return.
LimpitsReef 1 year ago
Hello,
Good video... But could you tell me why a sump is so important, I have a fish only tank now and im planning on changing it to a coral tank and I have a canister, and wet dry filter, and skimmer, but i dont understand why i need the sump, i can see myself unpluging wet dry filter becasue it gives to much nutrients for corals but i dont see where sump comes in?
rrt2randy6 1 year ago
A sump will supply more water volume and give you a place to house a decent protein skimmer. It also can be used to grow macro algae with will absorb excess nutrients from your tank.
LimpitsReef 1 year ago
Hi!
How did you go about getting the silicon down into the hard to reach bottom portions of the bubble trap after you saw the leak? Also do you reccomend or have experience with rplasticsdotcom fir ordering precut sheets?
Thanks!
TheLt0000 1 year ago
You can use a dowel or a paint stirrer to get the silicone into the hard to reach areas.
I have not dealt with rplastics.
LimpitsReef 1 year ago
Hey for everyone! I got a tip. In stead of holding the glass panels with super glue or tape. use hot glue!
Arteolike 1 year ago
what were your measurments on your pannels?
jbeard82 1 year ago
Watch part 1 for the measurements.
LimpitsReef 1 year ago
Hey Limpits! Great Video! I was hoping you could answer me a ?
I would rather not drill a hole so will it make a difference if I just run it through the top of the tank? Is one way better than the other?
sgc0286 2 years ago
It does not matter. I state in the video that you can just run the intake on top.
LimpitsReef 2 years ago
why do u need a bubble trap and its before the pump correct? is it so the pump doesnt get bubbles?
natescraigslist 2 years ago
Its so the pump does not pump the bubbles into your tank.
LimpitsReef 2 years ago
i might be getting a salt water tank
MrBobthecorncob 2 years ago
Thank you so much for this very informative video! I give it 5 stars, and I am definitely subscribing to see what is coming next! Do you think a video (or maybe just a description) on how to install the sump into an aquarium would be possible? Thanks again!
alextompkins1912 2 years ago
whats the differance between a Refugium and a sump
ThunderTundra1011 2 years ago
Refugium is a sump that is used to grow plant life. The plant life is used as filter to export nitrates. Without the plant life you have just a sump.
fastfive5 2 years ago
@fastfive5
Refugium is also a place to breed pods without any predators. i.e refuge
200ltrRoma 2 years ago
I have a 47 gallon tank. Will a 10 gallon sump be adequate?
byocow 2 years ago
@byocow
Depending on what your using the sump for? If its just to store your equipment, i.e skimmer, heater then its fine. May be too small to house all your equipment and a DSB.
200ltrRoma 2 years ago
im doing a reef but what is the reason to have a sump
1foreverwakeboard 2 years ago
How do install the sump to my aquarium?
cloudcally 2 years ago
@cloudcally
You can either drill your tank or use an overflow box
200ltrRoma 2 years ago
in spanish plis
albertserranolauret 2 years ago
Lo sentimos, no hablo español
LimpitsReef 2 years ago
without a bunch of light, the live rock will die off and not be much use as a filter. that skimmer is ok for a tank under 50 gallons. Why not use a 3-4 foot tall hang on skimmer and do the Berlin method letting the live rock in the tank be the filter, this way you will not be pushing so much water over the rock in the sump. that type of hose will also become brittle when exposed to saltwater. get medical grade hosing (it is clear) it costs more but is well worth it.
hotmercedes 2 years ago
cheers 1 more thing i can probly get a 2nd hand tank for say $50 for a 4 foot to use as a sump what kind of pumps ect would i need to keep this all flowing perfectly also with protein skimmers whats the diff with the cheap 1s and the $400+ ones soz for so many questions its just im settin up a sump soon as iv been runnin my tank on the aqua one marisys 240
I2eapz 2 years ago
Pump needs to be matched to your overflows rating. Some higher priced skimmers will pull more skimmate than others. This will be covered in a future video.
LimpitsReef 2 years ago
Do you know anyone who is selling a 20 gallon long sump? I would like to buy one if anyone know.
changyang7 2 years ago
No I do not. Maybe check your area craigs list
LimpitsReef 2 years ago
i own a 250-280 liter tank its been running for the passed 2 months on an aqua marisys 240 setup witch had the protein skimmer - and every thing else in 1 kinda thing but latly been been failing so im going to build a sump what size tank should i use to build a sump for like 70-80 gallon (i also have a mantis shrimp tank (2 foot witch ill be building a mini sump for that 1 also
I2eapz 2 years ago
I always recommend building the largest sump you can. More water volume is always better.
LimpitsReef 2 years ago
hi limpits! i just want to ask if this will work in a 200L (50g) liter tank? thank you
jeenagail 2 years ago
50 gallons would work but your panels will be different size than what I used for a standard 30 gallon.
LimpitsReef 2 years ago
what do you think the size of the panel would be? sorry got no idea about doing this and calculation... im just following this video. thanks a lot in advance!
jeenagail 2 years ago
You should do some online research on sump design then to find what would work best. Otherwise sell the 200L tank and buy a standard 30 gallon tank and follow my video.
LimpitsReef 2 years ago
thanks for the vid!!!!
NoChikenStrips 2 years ago
i have a 14g tank with fish in it i want a sump i have a 10g and am going to buy acrylic glass or w.e name is can u help me with a dimension or tell me how to do it for smaller tank
pelotera19 2 years ago
Sorry, but you will have to research the smaller sump design on your own. My attempt at making a smaller sump (on my old 20 gallon tank) worked but not very well.
LimpitsReef 2 years ago
Damn i really want a sump so i can have a better chance of having cleaner tank its clean alll the time but rather be safer
pelotera19 2 years ago
For me the whole reason to have a sump is for having additional live rock rubble and to house a protein skimmer and all my other equipment to keep it out of the display tank. That being said a 10 gallon is just too small for my application.
LimpitsReef 2 years ago
Hi, I am trying to build my own sump for my 40g 2 foot cube tank. What sort of size tank will I need for the sump? Great tutorial by the way
moomin42 2 years ago
It all really depends on what equipment you want to have in the sump. I like to use the standard 30 gallon size tanks because they give me a lot of room to do things with.
LimpitsReef 2 years ago
what do you use to cut the acyrilic?
RenagadeFishy 2 years ago
Carbide tip blade on a table saw.
LimpitsReef 2 years ago
i'm using a 29g which is about 11 13/16" wide, How wide is your standard 30g? I could just make my space a little bit larger to be safe?
AC2020x 2 years ago
13" so your 29 is not too much narrower. Just be aware that if you space them too wide the trap will not work very well. 1" of space is the norm.
LimpitsReef 2 years ago
So I have a mag 7 return pump rated a 700gph- If I put the same spacing in my bubble trap enough water will make it though in time so it doesn't start running dry? I'm worried that the bubble trap will not let the water though quick enough and cause some type of flooding???
AC2020x 2 years ago
I am running just over 900 GPH through my sumps with the spacing shown in the video with no problems. If you are going to use a tank narrower than a standard 30 gallon you may have issues though.
LimpitsReef 2 years ago
Thanks for the great video! Made the work much easier. I have one question, sump is great, water tight seals on baffles, only problem is I spaced the baffles too far; about 2" apart. will that reduce effect of my bubble trap? I really don't want to tear the baffles out and start over.
reefnoob 2 years ago
Unless you are planning on having a ton of flow going through the sump 2" is too far but hey, give it a try and see how it works.
LimpitsReef 2 years ago
how would you make the sump if all you have is tempered glass aquariums
Krenshaw22 2 years ago
The sump does not HAVE to be drilled. Only reason I drilled this one was I needed the intake on the side due to my stands configuration and to show you how to drill glass.
LimpitsReef 2 years ago
How come you didnt do a part on setting up the return pump ...
Marchingbandjs 2 years ago
I figure if you are going to set up a reef tank you should at least be able to figure out how a return pump works. Its not that difficult.
LimpitsReef 2 years ago
Ya i know i just thought maby you would give people advice on like using ball valves.. .or something like that... just commenting... i agree its easy.. Just theres a lot of things peeps can do wrong.. Like valve on intake of pump... stuff like that...
Any luck on funds for Cam
Marchingbandjs 2 years ago
No funds for camcorder and not much support to speak of from subscribers.
LimpitsReef 2 years ago
Ya i dont have paypal... im going to buy that flex hose thing you have on your ebay store.... also if you were to put a few of those Maxijet with sureflow mods up i could use some...
Marchingbandjs 2 years ago
LimpitsReef, have you ever made your own Live Rock. What I mean is a portland cement mixture with crushed oyster shells and what not?
moneyshot68 2 years ago
Yes, once years ago.
Some turned out o.k. and other batches crumbled in the tank over time.
LimpitsReef 2 years ago
LimpitsReef, do you have a book? You should write one. I just made a version of the sump in this video. Still have the silicone in my nose. 24hrs from now I hope not to find a leak!!!! I did use a 29 gallon, the only one you mentioned you shouldn't use. Its the only thing I had laying around. Its for a 90 gal that I want to build. Would be nice to set one up like yours. Very nice!
moneyshot68 2 years ago
so let me get this straight water comes in from ur fish tank then it goes thru a chamber then thru the protein skimmer then thru another chamber and back to the tank how would that filter the tank
postopia1992 2 years ago
There are other items in the sump such as live rock and macro algaes that filter the water along with the skimmer.
LimpitsReef 2 years ago
great video, please if you ever bulid more equipment, film it, not enought people give a good enough description on how they bulid their equiment
metal15051 2 years ago
As soon as I get enough funds to replace my broken camcorder I will post more videos.
Please support my eBay store to help.
LimpitsReef 2 years ago
if i had the cash i would, however, that is the reason im watching videos like this, is because i dont have a lot if money, so my reef tank as of this point, except for the pumps is compleatly DIY good luck with ur camcorder
metal15051 2 years ago
where do you buy the flex hose
hotdoghee123 2 years ago
You can find it online at many places.
Youtube does not allow me to write web addys so please do not ask.
LimpitsReef 2 years ago
what is the cost of the drill bit used for making the whole?
CHRISTINACALSI 2 years ago
They are like less that $20.
Look on eBay for them.
LimpitsReef 2 years ago
wow i thought they would be expensive thats a pretty good price. great video i hope we can see some more in the future. happy reefing :)
hotdoghee123 2 years ago
Thank you for the great video. Where did you buy your plain tank?
thecobweb 2 years ago
At my local fish store.
LimpitsReef 2 years ago
how many gl sump do you need for a 125 gl tank
M0Etivation 2 years ago
I use a 38 gallon on one of my 125's and a 30 gallon on the other one.
LimpitsReef 2 years ago
Why the heck would anyone go through the side with all those chances for leaks when the top is open for business. I throw up my hands at such decisions. Keep in mind, I was a safety engineer while working. Safety First.
crabsyman 2 years ago
Only reason inlet was plumbed into side of sump was due to the stands configuration.
I posted this same information already in the comments above.
LimpitsReef 2 years ago
too cool thanks
monkeyboyee1 2 years ago
While if you are good at sealing you can put the entire assembly together, however if you have the time take 2-3 days an install and test for leaks as you go. Install the return wall seal, wait 24 hours test for leaks then move on, install the bubble trap and skimmer wall then wait 24 hours test for leaks then move on, ( you can install the fuge wall also on day 2 as it leaves enough room to allow touchups without much trouble.
Xcali1985 2 years ago
Hi, do you have to have a sump with a marine/reef aquarium? Thanks.
racingking46 2 years ago
You don't HAVE to have one but it really helps keep the water in good quality when you use a decent protein skimmer in the sump.
LimpitsReef 2 years ago
thanks!!!
cqlink1 2 years ago
what glue did you use on the PVC?
cqlink1 2 years ago
PVC cement.
Once it is dry it is safe to use on your aquarium.
LimpitsReef 2 years ago
this is kind of off topic but what gph powerhead would be acceptable for a 5.5 gallon nano reef tank?
liener14 2 years ago
Sorry, but I am not very familiar with small nano tanks. Maybe someone else will read this and reply. My 12 gallon Aquapod uses a Maxi-jet 900
LimpitsReef 2 years ago
How do you rate an overflow. I am going to have a custom tank built with an external overflow. I am planning on a return pump rated for about 1,000 GPH. I have been wondering how wide I need to make my overflow. Also, the depth of the overflow from the top of the tank. How is this determined?
stallen5 2 years ago
I will send you some links that can help you determine that.
LimpitsReef 2 years ago
sick sump dude!
oppat456 2 years ago
nice tast in music :D
ricardobrad 2 years ago
you said this was under 100$ w/o the protein skimmer where did you get the pump and how many gph is it rated for??
reaper05826 2 years ago
Cost of the project show minus skimmer was under $100, that does not include a return pump.
I run pumps rated at around 900 GPH but you need to have the overflow matched to the pump or you risk flooding.
LimpitsReef 2 years ago
How do you match the siphon flow rate to the return pump?
buddyguy1985 2 years ago
You need to choose an overflow rated larger than the maximum possible output of your return pump. For example, you have a pump rated at 500 GPH then you would use an overflow rated for 600 GPH or larger. This way the overflow can keep up with the pump.
LimpitsReef 2 years ago
how thick is the lexan?
jcabralda 2 years ago
I use either 1/4" or 3/8" thick depending on how large the panel is going to be.
LimpitsReef 2 years ago
would it be a good idea to make a sump without the protien skimmer? dont really want to get a skimmer but a sump would be pretty good to have i dont know if not having the skimmer makes a sump useless or not , basically making my own filter
BoY860 2 years ago
Thank you for the video!
FiRespeedcom 2 years ago
thanks for sharing all that info. very generous!
if someone experiences a wild bead of caulk that they want to clean up (make uniform... not remove) you can try cutting a piece of potato as a tool for "pulling" caulk. the caulk doesn't stick to the potato because of it's wet consistency.
dogbeardbirdbeer 2 years ago
You guys are awesome, thanks!!
GripzNGatz 2 years ago
Great video, very informative. Question though: What's the benefit of drilling into the side of the glass and having the overflow drain the water into the sump that way? Wouldn't a hose or pipe straight through the open top of the tank be easier and cheaper than purchasing a diamond tip bit and less risky than drilling?
Thanks!
KatsinX 2 years ago
It was simply due to my stands configuration that the inlet needed to be through the side.
LimpitsReef 2 years ago
sorry forgot to ask will you be making more on the serise
looking forward to it
thanks a lot
vermavipul 2 years ago
Hi
can u pleas tell more about finishing the sump pleas with the mechanism because In my town their is no one with the knowledge of a marine tank
and most of the videos i've watched are very complicated
so can u pleas explain further process of the sump it would be lovely if u could make a part 3 thanks
vermavipul 2 years ago
One of the best demos Iv seen. Very professional diy for cheap. Excellent vids! Whats the next one going to be on any ideas yet? After the sure flow one that is sorry. One idea Iv had is why to not go and get the really picky eaters and the really hard to keep as a ametuer aquarist. Also which types they are and maybe an alternative. So many places sell anything and will tell you anything just to sell it and if you dont fully understand it its a death sentence for the fish. THANKS KEEP IT UP!
stumpovrtyme 2 years ago
Question, It seems like once you install one of the three panels for the bubble trap, it would be difficult to access BOTH sides with the silicone as you said is necessary. One inch clearance for that tube of silicone plus your hand doesn't seem possible.???
tonydoberman21 2 years ago
A piece of tubing was added to the silicone nozzle to get into tight areas. This has been noted in the video.
LimpitsReef 2 years ago
How are you gluing the Panels in the back that are between the Middle Panel?
Tank2379 2 years ago
The same way I sealed in the other panels
LimpitsReef 2 years ago
i think i will be doing this for my tank
stigg17 2 years ago
i need to know if there are any differences if i were to do this for freshwater. and could i make this cheaper in any way by not using acrylic panels or an actual aquarium?
ilostmysocks19 2 years ago
What benefit would there be in running a sump on a freshwater tank?
LimpitsReef 2 years ago
Besides the extra water volume.
LimpitsReef 2 years ago