Sump Advice

Manda0597 · May 31, 2020

Good evening! I am currently creating my sump setup for my 90 gal tank. I have a 36 gal w/ a canister but this is my first time using a sump. Here is what I am thinking. Suggestions please!!

Overflow goes into filter sock, then in-sump protein skimmer, porous live rocks, bubble trap, return chamber w/ heater, UV sterilizer and return pump. Do I need more, less, or just right?? Thank you!!

Beau_B · May 31, 2020

Sounds ok to me. Lots of ways to set it up, I had little knowledge when I built mine... Looked at some pro sumps (Trigger, etc) and went from there. I've made some mods along the way. Good luck!

Manda0597 · Jun 1, 2020

Beau_B said:
Sounds ok to me. Lots of ways to set it up, I had little knowledge when I built mine... Looked at some pro sumps (Trigger, etc) and went from there. I've made some mods along the way. Good luck!

Thank you! What is your take on UV sterilizer?

WilliamBowman · Jun 1, 2020

Manda0597 said:
Thank you! What is your take on UV sterilizer?

I am using SunSun UV Sterilizer Submersible Filter Pump and they make me happy

Beau_B · Jun 1, 2020

I didn't run a UV but added one due to dino outbreak. It worked and the tank is ridiculously clear now. I was worried it might reduce pod population but my Mandarin is far as ever. I wouldn't rely on it for disease control... Lots of threads about UV, suggest reading!

Manda0597 · Jun 1, 2020

Beau_B said:
I didn't run a UV but added one due to dino outbreak. It worked and the tank is ridiculously clear now. I was worried it might reduce pod population but my Mandarin is far as ever. I wouldn't rely on it for disease control... Lots of threads about UV, suggest reading!

Thanks! I have one for my freshwater tank due to a horrible algae bloom I had and the tank is crystal clear so I am a firm believer in them, but wasn't sure about saltwater and if it would kill too much beneficial bacteria. Was thinking about running it 50% of the time. Turning on when lights on and off when lights out or something.

jda · Jun 1, 2020

I would put the heater into the first chamber with the socks and skimmer. Make sure that you can take the socks out easily and have a way to control the noise in case you don't like them - they are not loved by all. UV is a personal choice - i have not run one in decades, but might if I needed it and you can just get one to sit off to the side. You don't need live rock in the sump if you have plenty in the display. Don't skimp on space for a skimmer - you might want a larger one some day. Lastly, make sure that you keep a nice open spot for a ATO sensor that is in the front where you can see everything and have good access.

Manda0597 · Jun 1, 2020

jda said:
I would put the heater into the first chamber with the socks and skimmer. Make sure that you can take the socks out easily and have a way to control the noise in case you don't like them - they are not loved by all. UV is a personal choice - i have not run one in decades, but might if I needed it and you can just get one to sit off to the side. You don't need live rock in the sump if you have plenty in the display. Don't skimp on space for a skimmer - you might want a larger one some day. Lastly, make sure that you keep a nice open spot for a ATO sensor that is in the front where you can see everything and have good access.

I do not have an ATO, is it required?