Enclosed Sump, Stand Ventilation?

[Hugh Mann]

To help keep in heat and reduce evaporation, I insulated the sump, added a lid, and the stand is fully enclosed with the exception of three holes for wires and plumbing.

I have noticed however, especially since adding the fuge light, the temperature and humidity inside the stand has gone way up, it feels like a tropical jungle when I open it up for maintenance.

Anyways, because of the temperature/humidity, I am concerned about mold growth. Will this end up being a problem? Should I install a little fan venting the stand?

 

[dmsc2fs]

It sounds like a perfect environment for mold. Let it breath.

 

[Spare time]

It also may lower the pH of the tank. Remember that anytime you attempt to reduce evaporation, you are also likely to lower the pH by reducing gas exchange (and lowering the ability for oxygenation).

 

[Hugh Mann]

That didn’t even occur to me really. With the open top and way the return is rigged, there’s still a good amount of gas exchange going on. Pretty much have to keep the sump closed or mostly closed. Before the lid I was losing an easy 2 gallons a day to evaporation. Combination of a dry climate and it’s in the same room as my high efficiency furnace which strips moisture out of the air nearly as good as a dehumidifier.

It also may lower the pH of the tank. Remember that anytime you attempt to reduce evaporation, you are also likely to lower the pH by reducing gas exchange (and lowering the ability for oxygenation).