Sump For 40b

[jira]

I've decided to migrate my recently set up 20 long to a 40b since I found the steel rack units house them perfectly. My plan was to use a 40b display with a 40b sump. Is that overkill? Need some help with what to do here!

So far here's what I've purchased:
1) small eshopps internal overflow, 600gph
2) hydor seltz dc return pump, 750 gph max
3) aquamaxx fc-80 skimmer
4) 1" gate valve
5) overflow strainer
6) flex pvc
7) utube return
8) hose clamps

I want to run this overflow herbie with full siphon, but unsure of which sump design to use. Ive been looking at the prefabricated baffle kits..

 

[LiveWire]

My first tank was a 40 breeder with a 10 gallon sump. It was also the first to overflow the sump when the power went out haha So I upgraded the sump to a 20 long and never had an issue after that. I always liked that setup. A 40 gallon sump seems a bit overkill to me unless you are putting it on a main display that over 100 gallons but if you really want to setup a double 40 then thats what you should do.

 

[Peace River]

On one side a 40b/40b setup increases your water volume to nearly 80g which is better for water stability. On the other hand, realizing that a sump is basically a glass/plastic box to put stuff that you would rather not have in your tank, the length of the sump is a key element because it is a factor in determining how many chambers you can have the water flow through. The 40b is double the volume of a 20L but it only adds 6 inches. This is not a problem, but there is not a huge benefit from that perspective. Overall the 40b has its benefits over the 20L but the difference isn't dramatic. HTH - good luck!

 

[jira]

This morning I've been thinking, I may lean towards the 20L as that also leaves some surface on the shelf for an ato container and other things. With 2 40b, I'd have to build the ato resevoir into the sump or house it on the floor