Adding a sump/fuge to solana?

Reef Keeper 18 · Oct 16, 2012

So I'm trying to up the filtration in my solana, and the only way I can do that at this point is by adding a sump, and I've always wanted a fuge, so how can I add one to my solana? Relocate the equipment that's in the shelving below the tank to accommodate the sump ormputmthe sump in the 1ft open gap between my couch and the tank? Also if I added a sump and fuge what would be the best way to have the water to flow from the 5gallon fuge to the sump and to the overflow of the display?

Reef Keeper 18 · Oct 16, 2012

Another question, would rubber made tubs be suitable for a sump to house a skimmer maybe a reactor and a fuge? Or should I just go with like a 10 and 5 gallon tank?

Pkunk35 · Oct 16, 2012

Most people have the sump and fuge together in a single box separated by baffles and mostly its located underneath the tank. You can choose whichever config suits you tho as long as the plumbing is worked out.

You can totally use a rubbermaid as a cheap sump. I ran a DIY rubbermaid trickle filter for 5 years on a 45 tall and it worked like a charm. Only problem is you won't be able to see inside it without taking the lid off and a flashlight. It also bows a lot with the weight of the water...make sure to use rubbermaid also as I have seen other brands crack under the weight of the water.

How big is your solana? I'm currently doing the same for my 20 gal and going with a sump with 2 compartments: 1 to hold all equipment and another for fuge/display.

Reef Keeper 18 · Oct 16, 2012

It's a 34 and I ran into the slight overstock problem so I was looking to getting a good sized skimmer. The only issue I think I will run into is keeping the water level in the sump. If I run two pumps with the exact same output one into the tub one out of the tub will that work?

Pkunk35 · Oct 16, 2012

Reef Keeper 18 said:
It's a 34 and I ran into the slight overstock problem so I was looking to getting a good sized skimmer. The only issue I think I will run into is keeping the water level in the sump. If I run two pumps with the exact same output one into the tub one out of the tub will that work?

You'll need an overflow box from the solana to the sump. Then a return pump from the sump to the solana. The water level in the sump will depend on the pump used. Just make sure the overflow can handle the pumps output and you will be ok (you can add a gate valve to control flow from pump to solana). Also make sure to leave room in the sump in case of power outage or pump failure.

Is this what you are asking?