Could use some advice on what is needed please.

[Classic_Rich]

I just purchased a 40-gallon tank, I am converting into a sump/refugium. My intention is to have soft corals, some fish and of course a cleanup crew. My primary tank is a 60 cube. I am still in the building stage. Any suggestions, help, pointing out design flaws or even a better way of constructing this sump would be greatly appreciated. the last picture tank and stand. The stand is going to be rebuilt to accommodate the newer sump. Thank you

The height of the partitions for the refugium area is maxed out at 9 inches. The skimmer operates best between 7 and 9 inches as recommended by the manufacturer....... For those enquire minds that have to know.. It is a Christmas puzzle underneath a brand new puzzle built and missing 3 pieces.

 

[reacclimating 2 the hobby]

I'd just move the skimmer chamber to after the Refugium chamber of the sump.

 

[Classic_Rich]

Being that I have a refugium which will host life, wouldn't a skimmer after the refugium destroy the inhabitants making way to the primary tank? Is there a specific benefit for this adjustment or is it personal preference? Are you now running your system the way you are suggesting after changing from what I am building?

 

[PRock]

Being that I have a refugium which will host life, wouldn't a skimmer after the refugium destroy the inhabitants making way to the primary tank? Is there a specific benefit for this adjustment or is it personal preference? Are you now running your system the way you are suggesting after changing from what I am building?

Not necessarily, as the skimmer isn't ever going to get 100% of the water flowing through that chamber. The main reason you'd want the refugium (or bio media if you're going that route) first is so that things in there get the first crack at the nutrients you're trying to consume. You'll have less work for the skimmer to do, which means less frequent need to empty the collection cup. My sump currently goes through filter socks then a refugium, then the skimmer/biobrick chamber, then the return.

 

[reacclimating 2 the hobby]

Yes that is exactly how my tank is setup.

If the skimmer is going to destroy inhabitants, what do you think your return pump will do?

 

[Classic_Rich]

Not necessarily, as the skimmer isn't ever going to get 100% of the water flowing through that chamber. The main reason you'd want the refugium (or bio media if you're going that route) first is so that things in there get the first crack at the nutrients you're trying to consume. You'll have less work for the skimmer to do, which means less frequent need to empty the collection cup. My sump currently goes through filter socks then a refugium, then the skimmer/biobrick chamber, then the return.

Great! Thank you

 

[Classic_Rich]

Yes that is exactly how my tank is setup.

If the skimmer is going to destroy inhabitants, what do you think your return pump will do?

 

[Classic_Rich]

Geez guess I'm going to have to indenture my kid into servitude again Out with the pump, man the bucket.

Thank you

 

[reacclimating 2 the hobby]

Trust me the inhabitants survive both. Free the child!! lol

 

[Classic_Rich]

Because of role reversal is change needed for the partitions? Noticed that i might be the incorrect area for this post.. can it be moved.. not sure if it's ok to double post

 

[Classic_Rich]

I had moved to the thread to this location... https://www.reef2reef.com/threads/could-use-some-advice-on-what-is-needed-please.639427/