DIY Sump setup

[BillB83]

Current Setup:

• 135-gallon Reef Tank plumbed into a DIY 40-gallon breeder sump.
• 120-gallon FOWLR tank plumbed into another 40-gallon breeder sump.

Each system has its own protein skimmer, 25W UV sterilizer, and full equipment setup.

Considering a Change:
I’ve been thinking about relocating my 120-gallon tank to a better spot, and while I’m at it, I might consolidate both tanks into a single, larger sump.

Questions:

1. Are there any major downsides to combining them? I know there are some benefits to keeping systems separate, but maintaining two is becoming a pain.
2. What size sump would I need? Would a 75-gallon work, or should I go bigger? I’m open to another DIY build if necessary.

 

[bradreef]

Sump size is simple based on want, overflow amount( when return pumps cut off), and equipment needs. I think you would be able to use something 40+ easily. A converted 40 breeder or 60 breeder would be nice for diy.

Only downside imo is shared parasites, bacteria, and needs. Overall it should be a lot easier.

 

[Red_Beard]

Yep. Down sides are that pests will be shared. Water quality will too, for better or worse, so you couldn't run higher nutrients in one and low in the other for example, or high vs low alk. But, that could also be a benefit as you only have the one volume to keep balanced vs 2. You also get a larger volume of water too so it should be more stabile. As mentioned, you really can run whatever sump can hold all the water volume from both tanks when the pumps are off, as well as all the life support equipment you need, skimmer, ats, cal rx, socks, heaters or whatever you need.

 

[UncommonSense]

The “rule of thumb” is at least 25% of display(s) volume(s) for your sump… 33% is better, even more is even better!! — my 90g has a 60g sump under it!