Somewhat DIY sump question

Philly Reefer · Jun 8, 2020

Hello guys,

I have a question with my future sump measurement before I silicone them.

The intake part, I cant change how wide it is. So thats set.

How about the rest? Does it look good?
I guess I am worried about how much space I should give the skimmer and return pump.

Skimmer will be Bubble Magus = 7.3" x 7.1"

Not sure which return pump I would get, but it seems 5" should be enough space, will it? Or can I shrink it to 4"?

Any input is appreciated

gabrieltackitt · Jun 8, 2020

Any reason you are doing your skimmer before your refugium? If it was me, I’d put my refugium first, then you can keep a taller water height in that chamber, and set the chamber after to the best height for your skimmer.

J would suggest cutting a piece of cardboard to the dimensions of your skimmer to make sure it fits. 5” should be plenty for your return, you could probably do 4 but don’t forget to account for the backfill when your return shuts off

Philly Reefer · Jun 8, 2020

gabrieltackitt said:
Any reason you are doing your skimmer before your refugium? If it was me, I’d put my refugium first, then you can keep a taller water height in that chamber, and set the chamber after to the best height for your skimmer.

J would suggest cutting a piece of cardboard to the dimensions of your skimmer to make sure it fits. 5” should be plenty for your return, you could probably do 4 but don’t forget to account for the backfill when your return shuts off

Well.. I would have thought on all the videos I see, they always put skimmer then refugium. I need to research it more.

I would think both chambers would have the same water height, wouldn't it?

Ty. Good idea on the cardboard.

Backfill, I might not need to worry as much because it will be over the top of the tank.

gabrieltackitt · Jun 9, 2020

aior0s said:
Well.. I would have thought on all the videos I see, they always put skimmer then refugium. I need to research it more.

I would think both chambers would have the same water height, wouldn't it?

Ty. Good idea on the cardboard.

Backfill, I might not need to worry as much because it will be over the top of the tank.

Ahh yes I see that now, thought that was an over baffle at first glance. both will be same level. In that case I would put fuge after skimmer, no use in pods having to dodge that pump as well. Triton method recommends skimmer after refugium so there are some people doing it the other way.

Even with an over the top return, you will still get someback siphon until the water level is below the end of your return pipe, and all the water in your return plumbing itself.