210 Trigger systems sump recommendation

[litebulb]

I'm looking at the 36" sumps that Trigger systems has to offer to upgrade my old timey sump setup. I currently have a 36" sump with refugium and external protien skimmer. I'm sure I'll have to go with an internal skimmer which is fine by me I'm just a bit confused on what i really "NEED". i like the emerald series the best but not a fan of the price lol! Thanks for any input i really appreciate it!

 

[CodyRVA]

IMHO if it aint broke dont fix it. I would only upgrade my sump for reasons such as: increases total water volume, larger skimmer chamber, includes or increases refugium chamber, more filter sock slots, etc. I take a practical approach; as long as its safe, durable, and does the job, i could care less what my sump looks like, its not the display. These sumps are sick looking theres no doubt, but I would personally put the extra money into a better skimmer, reactor, etc. All the sump does is hold the water your equipment needs. I made my sump myself, it might not be very "sexy" but at the end of the day it does the same job. :p

 

[litebulb]

Aesthetics isn't my main reasoning of course for wanting to change. This old sump has a few issues especially with the external protein skimmer and it's return putting lots of micro bubbles back into the sump. It's missing a lot of screws and some wear and stress marks on some of the main casing.

Found an 8 month old reef octopus 200 int locally today for $150. Just going to try to find a good deal on a sump. My maintenence guy that takes care of my smaller tanks right now(also a lfs owner) isn't a fan of dual 4" socks in a sump and is suggesting I find one with dual 7". Although the emerald 39 has (3) 4"socks and the he liked. I know it's everyone's opinion on this and I don't see why manufacturers would make a sump with smaller than needed filter socks. I'm of the mindset that if that's how they made it, it's for a reason.