Assistance Please

[Mikeshells]

I am rather new to the hobby. I used to have tanks about 10 years ago, but when I recently purchased a used 90 gallon, I quickly realized how much changed since my last tank. I have a few questions and I don't want to seem like a complete novice at my lfs.

The tank came with a wet dry. I have been reading that these filters are no longer considered good options. I wanted to add some a couple of reactors (carbon & gfo) but was curious if I should first save up for a sump. If I went the sump route, is it cheaper to build my own. If so, what size should I be looking at. My Current stand only has a 17 inch gap between each door, so space is limited.

This is my first post so pardon me if I missed anything.

Thanks in advance

 

[1WildBill]

I would use a Sump personally. It is cheaper to build your own Sump, some silicone and glass or acrylic is all you need.

 

[SeahorseKeeper]

I would build your own sump especially with the tight space.

 

[Mikeshells]

I would build your own sump especially with the tight space.

I think I can fit a 29 gallon in there. Do you think that would be sufficient?

 

[miPapareef]

Welcome to R2R and congratulations on getting back in the hobby.

Before the sump, comes the overflow and returns. Have you looked at what overflow you’d get and how you’d do the return line(s)? If the tank is up and running you’ll need to go over the top for both.

29 gallons is about the right volume, but a 29 gallon tank is a taller tank (18”high) so you’ll want to be sure you can get equipment in and out of it while it’s in the stand. For the sounds of the door only 17” high that is my biggest concern with the 29 gallon idea

 

[Instigate]

I would build your own sump especially with the tight space.

This would be the best route, but if you want to wait and upgrade later you could always just toss the bio balls and add a couple baffles:

 

[count krunk]

You have 17" of width? Put a 55g underneath. I am a huge proponent of as big of a sump as possible. It's very simple to build your own with a standard sized aquarium.

I have a 29 gallon tank that will be used as the sump for my 40 breeder

 

[SPR1968]

Welcome to R2R Mike, and I personally would use a sump and as big as you can fit as it will make maintenance and control of your water parameters much easier.