First DIY Sump

mpatient · Dec 2, 2019

So getting ready to embark on my first reef build (90g). Not a newbie, but first tank over 35g in 15 years, and. my first time using a sump. In the process of designing the layout for a 40g breeder (Petco 50% off sale), and have the age old filter sock vs no socks question. Better yet, I know I DON'T want to use socks, and I am looking for alternatives. (I am mom to a teenager, and I already have enough laundry to do without throwing swampy filter socks into the mix). I like the idea of filter cups with floss, but would like recommendations for pre-made sock holders to fit the Aqueon, or maybe a better idea for catching the yucky stuff when cleaning out the DT. Thanks in advance!

Reef-junky · Dec 3, 2019

There are tons of options. You could use a roller mat. You could just put a power head and CUC in the sump.

southerntnreefer · Dec 3, 2019

Roller Mats are a good option if you have the sump space. I just ordered some 4 inch filter cups for my new build. I'm using a pro built sump, but they make all kinds of different sock holders they will slide in.

I go to Walmart and buy the big box of non flame retardant pillow stuffing, and that as floss in my tanks. Lasts forever and is only like 40 bucks at most. Toss it in, pull it every few days and trash it.

Barnabie Mejia · Dec 3, 2019

there is a thread stickied at the top of this forum section that shows how to make your own filter socks, and the best part is they are disposable! I bought a roll of the material and sweet talked my mother in law to sew some up for me and I was able to make enough to last me 7 months. for an $8 investment I lose the hassle of washing them, and somehow I now know how to use a sewing machine haha, I guess I will me sewing up the next batch of them..... filter socks make keeping my display and sump super clean!

AbjectMaelstroM · Dec 3, 2019

Not sure what your budget is, but there are several baffle kits on eBay that are fairly inexpensive (in the grand scheme of things) for 40B. I just put one together for my tank and love it. Also avoided socks and picked up 2 red sea filter cups for floss. I've got about 10lb of floss pillow stuffing left over from my speaker build that should last me a good bit and it's dirt cheap.

mpatient · Dec 3, 2019

Thank you all for your responses. I have ordered two sock holders that I intend to run with the cups and floss. If this doesn't work out, i can go to socks or a roller mat. Look for a build thread soon!