Tank builders…let’s make a plan together!

[Miami Reef]

Hello guys. Little backstory: my grandfather had this tank build in my house (used to be his house) over a decade ago. The people who built it really did a DIY and bad job with plumbing and design. I struggled a lot with this tank, but the time has come where I am doing my first ever rebuild.

I found an aquarium maintenance company online and I spoke to them.

I don’t want to overwhelm anyone, so I will break down the plan in the next post. I’m hoping we can work together to have an awesome build with a great plumbing system (a huge dream of mine for YEARS!)

 

[Miami Reef]

Okay. Let’s start.

The tank is approximately going to be 250 gallons.

1. As of right now I’m going with glass for the tank and sump. I’d really hope other people tell me it’s ok, because I was not a fan of acrylic.

2. The bracing will look something like this

3. I believe I’d prefer to have the overflow in the center rather than 1 on each end.

4. For the sump design, this is how I currently have my overflows lead to the socks:

maneuvering the laundry tubing is really annoying and makes me feel uncomfortable because I get afraid I will eventually detach the tubing. What is the “most” simple and effective sock overflow system? With the name please so I can write it down and research.

And I will post about the other parts of the system later. I’d prefer to work with one section at a time.

 

[Miami Reef]

Bump!

 

[mehaffydr]

I would for sure go Glass. I have had both and yes there are benefits to Acrylic glass is much easier ti keep clean and does not scratch like acrylic.
For the filter socks I don't know the name but if you look at the modern sumps the drain from tank into a first compartment that then fills and overflows into the filter sock area so there is nothing blocking the removal of the filter socks.
Good luck wit the build I'm sure it will be nice when finished.

 

[jda]

If your tank is built in and you have room, get at least a 75g tank for a sump. 120g would be better. They can be used and ugly. I have never regretted having more room in a sump.

I prefer glass too.