Stand Space and Sump Size . . .

[EAsalty]

In researching the best size sump to place in my stand, the common response is the biggest you can fit in the stand relative to equipment and other needs. I have a new tank and stand being built. 150g, coast-to coast, bean animal, 60x24x24 with a 60x24x36 wooden stand with 18x22 end doors to add or remove sump.

I need a sump to place inside stand and stuck between these options:

1. 36x18x17 sump to house a Lifereef Skimmer VS3-24, and red dragon 3 return pump not leaving much room inside sump, but nearly 24" remaining space in stand for media reactors and Apex Doser/containers.​

2. 48x18x17 sump with the same setup above and room for fuge or media reactors inside sump with nearly 12" outside of sump - just enough space for Apex DOS/containers inside stand.​

I will use filter socks and plan to place ATO reservoir (20g) behind stand and perhaps calcium reactor in the future. Not considering Triton Method at this time.

I am open to any suggestions or recommendations

 

[Hitman]

Option 2 definitely. The extra room and water volume in your sump makes life easier.

 

[cromag27]

personal preference. the extra water volume is nil, while the space in the sump could be a determining factor. all personal preference.

 

[tdileo]

Option 2 and then drill spice racks on your stand doors above the sump. I have room for another 8” or so of sump and regret not doing it. A much bigger fuge would have been greatly appreciated and the extra space just becomes a garbage pile.

 

[EAsalty]

Option 2 definitely. The extra room and water volume in your sump makes life easier.

@Hitman I was thinking the same about option 2

 

[EAsalty]

personal preference. the extra water volume is nil, while the space in the sump could be a determining factor. all personal preference.

@cromag27 I agree and that's what makes this a difficult decision . . . I want both options

 

[EAsalty]

Option 2 and then drill spice racks on your stand doors above the sump. I have room for another 8” or so of sump and regret not doing it. A much bigger fuge would have been greatly appreciated and the extra space just becomes a garbage pile.

@tdileo I love the spice rack idea and I can also relate to extra space . . . this is where I toss everything when my wife complains!!

 

[EAsalty]

Here is a drawing of what I would like in a DIY glass sump. I have never made a blueprint, but this what I designed after reviewing hundreds of DIY and custom sump online. I want the right to left flow to access Bean Animal gate valve on right side behind the tank. However, considering this is glass without a front or back, this design could work from left or right.

What are your thoughts and suggestions?