55 gallon filtration

[Peli45]

Can a classic 55 gallon regular tank be run without a skimmer for filtration (mostly HOB filtration)? This seems actually cheaper than a fully fledged 40g AIO, even if I have to get the tank drilled for a sump.

 

[BaliReefBox]

imo simple answer is yes. Having said that a skimmer will make your job easier. If you have the room and funds set the sump up from day 1. I didnt and went with a 25g AIO and lasted 3 months before upgrading to a sump and 50g

 

[FSP]

Yes, but unless you have a really old school tank, I wouldn't count on a regular 55 gal being drillable. Good excuse to get a 40 or 60 breeder, which have way better footprints anyway

 

[BringingThatDottyback]

Absolutely, this is my tank using only a seachem 75 hob filter and a small diy refugium (I dont think the refugium does much and I plan on saving up and getting a CPR.)


I actually have had better luck with my tanks using HOB filtration then the one tank I have using a sump.

 

[Katherine Corals]

Can a classic 55 gallon regular tank be run without a skimmer for filtration (mostly HOB filtration)? This seems actually cheaper than a fully fledged 40g AIO, even if I have to get the tank drilled for a sump.

I ran a LPS dominant 75 gallon tank with HOB skimmer set up and everything looked great in there! That being said though, I prefer a "cleaner" look without having the back filled with equipment and heaters standing out everywhere. Once you go sump, you never go back to HOB lol