55G Sumpless Build

Magellan · Oct 28, 2019

If possible: Just remove the smallest amount of plastic possible that allows you to fit the skimmer over the lip, if you are able to do that without messing up the integrity of the lip. Looks like it’s pretty thick up top there, probably meant to hold a heavy glass lid. Alternatively, get creative and make your own mount (I drilled small holes in the lip of my 28g to put zip ties through in order to mount my ATO hose)

that’s one route, but that’s potentially kinda permanent. The other option is to consider the size of the skimmer, and what you want to accomplish. The Fluval one is rated for 45g, and without a sump is going to be your primary mode of nutrient export. You have a 55g tank, it might be worth sending it back and trying out something larger that fits better.

Your tank is looking great, and I really love the build on the stand!

Vogg · Oct 29, 2019

Magellan said:
If possible: Just remove the smallest amount of plastic possible that allows you to fit the skimmer over the lip, if you are able to do that without messing up the integrity of the lip. Looks like it’s pretty thick up top there, probably meant to hold a heavy glass lid. Alternatively, get creative and make your own mount (I drilled small holes in the lip of my 28g to put zip ties through in order to mount my ATO hose)

that’s one route, but that’s potentially kinda permanent. The other option is to consider the size of the skimmer, and what you want to accomplish. The Fluval one is rated for 45g, and without a sump is going to be your primary mode of nutrient export. You have a 55g tank, it might be worth sending it back and trying out something larger that fits better.

Your tank is looking great, and I really love the build on the stand!

Thanks! I actually did remove part of the lip so the skimmer would fit. It was easier than I thought, just used a razor knife carefully. Now I'm just trying to dial the skimmer in.

Vogg · Oct 30, 2019

It's been a crazy few days, but here's an update with pics.

I really wanted an acrylic top, but decided to go with mesh to save some money. I bought mesh from BRS and a frame kit from Home Depot. Total cost was around $25. As you can see from the pic, the frame was just too flimsy to hold shape when trying to make a cut out for my skimmer. I had enough material to try a few different ways with no luck. Today I picked up a piece of egg crate and within 5 minutes I had a perfect top.

There is concern that some fish could still get through, so I may try to attach some mesh to the underside at a later time.

I also ordered a mounting bracket for my light. The included legs seemed too flimsy and sat very close to the water. This looks much nicer.

Vogg · Oct 30, 2019

So far I have a pair of clowns, 25 snails, 10 hermits and an emerald crab. To complete my cuc I would like to add 2-3 urchins, another dozen hermits, a cleaner shrimp, and maybe another emerald or sandy.

Still workin on dialing in the skimmer. Also received my parts to mount my rodi inline with my sink, so I'll have that hooked up soon. Also bought some "shelves" for the stand to help keep it organized.

Magellan · Oct 30, 2019

Install looks very clean! That egg crate worked perfectly

Vogg · Oct 31, 2019

Magellan said:
Install looks very clean! That egg crate worked perfectly

Thank you!

Vogg · Nov 6, 2019

Quick update. I ordered the rest of my cuc, my first corals and a mandarin from saltwaterfish.com. There was a delay with my shipment due to a mechanical issue with fedex plane. My mandarin arrived doa unfortunately, and I'm still waiting to see if my coral will open up. I was originally very happy with their customer service, until they refunded me the money rather than send a new fish. It was on sale so I cant get it for that price, and I would have to spend extra to get free shipping again...not happy.

They said they cant reverse a refund and I would need to notate in the future that I want a reship instead of a refund. As you can see, I did. They basically said sorry, you're out of luck.