I started making a DIY 20L sump for my 40 Gal display. I got as far as making the return area and decided that I would like to move the refugium to a separate tank to give more room for the skimmer and roller mat. I have room in my basement to have a separate refugium tank but I am not sure the best way to plumb it in. Also, I am not sure how big to go, another 20 gallon? 29?, 55 stock tank?
Here is what I was thinking:
Option 1: Place both tanks side by side on the same level connected together with bulkheads and 1.5" PVC pipe. This seems like the easiest way and I like how the water doesn't have to be recirculated in the sump. Seems simple (and I like simple) but is it the best method? Should the connecting bulkheads be high, low or middle?
Option 2: Place the refugium tank up a little higher and plumb a 'T' on the return pump to feed it then have it overflow back into the sump. Not too difficult but adds some complexity to the plumbing as well as recirculates water in the sump.
Option 3: Same as option 2 (up higher and overflow back into the sump) but instead of the return pump use a second pump to feed it. Water would still recirculate though but I could also use this pump to feed a reactor. I actually already have a second pump that I was going use when everything was in the display cabinet. Granted, I can still get my money back for this smaller pump but since I already have it I could put it to use.
Option 4: ??
Any advise would be greatly appreciated. I am really hoping to finish up this weekend so I can get water in my tank.
Thank you
Here is what I was thinking:
Option 1: Place both tanks side by side on the same level connected together with bulkheads and 1.5" PVC pipe. This seems like the easiest way and I like how the water doesn't have to be recirculated in the sump. Seems simple (and I like simple) but is it the best method? Should the connecting bulkheads be high, low or middle?
Option 2: Place the refugium tank up a little higher and plumb a 'T' on the return pump to feed it then have it overflow back into the sump. Not too difficult but adds some complexity to the plumbing as well as recirculates water in the sump.
Option 3: Same as option 2 (up higher and overflow back into the sump) but instead of the return pump use a second pump to feed it. Water would still recirculate though but I could also use this pump to feed a reactor. I actually already have a second pump that I was going use when everything was in the display cabinet. Granted, I can still get my money back for this smaller pump but since I already have it I could put it to use.
Option 4: ??
Any advise would be greatly appreciated. I am really hoping to finish up this weekend so I can get water in my tank.
Thank you