New setup

**jaradmf** · 07-07-2011, 07:35 PM

I have just recieved a 120 gal reef ready aquarium with a 55 gal which was previously set up as a sump system. I am not a stanger to saltwater but never set up a reef system. I am looking for a schematic for the operation of the sump, what is needed etc. I have a RO system, no protein skimmer and various pump including a canister filter which I assume is used to filter the sump out prior to returning to the tank. I also have a spray bar for the main tank. Pleaser help prior to setup as to I don't whant any major mistakes. Also, bioballs or live sand in the sump, which will give me the best results? Ready but confused.

Gerald M. Fortney

**Original Fin** · 07-07-2011, 11:23 PM

The info you're after would be very difficult to assemble in just one post.

Can you describe the 55? Glass/Acrylic? Does it have any holes/bulkheads/baffles built in yet?

There is no one right way to set up a reef sump, so bear that in mind when researching schematics. There are a lot of options and different functions they can serve. One thing I can tell you with absolute certainty is that once you've settled on a design and put it to use, it will be too late to make changes, and that's when you'll have most of your "ahah, wish I had done that differently" moments. So it pays to take your time on research here.

I'm actually in the middle of a beginner's guide to reef sumps that I will post soon, either in this forum or the Newbie Zone.

**FoMoCo Master Tech** · 07-08-2011, 12:46 AM

+ 1 on being sure of your sump design before putting it into play. I made mine based on a basic design and shortly after I installed it and filled the tank, I found that that design made the water level a little to high for my skimmer to work at optimum efficiency. I was given advice from members here on a different design that would have worked much better but chose differently. Because the tank was up and running right away, I have to work with what I got. Live sand in the sump (refugium section) is a good thing for a reef tank as long as it's deep enough for dentrification ( if that's what you're aiming for).Bio balls shouldnt be used. They, like crushed coral substrate, live rock in the sump, or any artificial bio media, can trap detritus and uneaten food. That would lead to water quality issues, particularly excessive nitrates and/ or phosphates.

**jaradmf** · 07-10-2011, 10:35 AM

Ive attached a pic of the sump as it stands at present. It is glass with 5 plates. Tell me what you think. Thanks Jaradmf

**Original Fin** · 07-10-2011, 02:45 PM

Hmmm...did the previous owner tell you which compartments were meant for what? That's not your typical baffle and bubble trap arrangement.

Are those acrylic baffles on a glass tank? Reason I ask is because it's very difficult to get a good seal on acrylic with silicone...it's likely to leak or fail at the seams.
If it were me, I'd remove the acrylic baffles, clean off all the old silicone and start over with glass. Your local glass shop can certainly cut some to spec for you, but I've found it much cheaper to find a hardware store that does thin plate plate glass. Lowes, HD and OSH usually have plate glass and the equipment to cut it.

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