How to Set Up a Used Sump

pattyxlynn · Jun 7, 2017

Disclaimer. I have no idea what I'm doing with a sump. I understand the mechanics behind it but the last time I had a reef, people weren't using them... at least not in my little world.

My 90 gal (not yet set up) came with a 30 gal aquarium as its sump. No baffles in it, he just had everything sitting in it. Last night I came across this sump on FB's SwipSwap and grabbed it up. I'll pick it up this morning. All I know about it are the dimensions which are 45L" x 12"W x 18"H. Not sure what that equates to in gallons. Does anybody have a clue on that?

I'm guessing those are bio balls which I probably don't want. The tank came with the protein skimmer pictured below as well as a PhosBan Reactor (also pictured).

Do you think this new sump will work for me? What should I leave in or leave out?

Thanks! Patty

A sea K · Jun 7, 2017

That sump is what is known as a wet-dry filter. Great for a fish only system but they are too efficient at the nitrogen cycle and as a side effect produce too much nitrate so many reef style aquarist wont use them. That and they really are'nt laid out very well for our purposes.
As for the size do this LXWXD in inches then divide by 231 will give you the gallons so for your dimensions it will be 42 gallons.
The skimmer is an older model but should serve you well. The RO skimmers are well liked in the hobby and I use one myself (actually in my last 2 systems). The reactor will certainly come in handy, they are simple to set-up and have multiple uses. I have several and use mine for activated carbon.

pattyxlynn · Jun 7, 2017

Perfect timing. I was just on my way to get it so I cancelled. So can I set this up like the previous guy had it with just using the aquarium? I thought you needed at least one baffle but maybe not? Thanks for the info!

mtraylor · Jun 7, 2017

Do you have a picture of how it was setup before? Baffles are useful for removing bubbles etc from the water before you get to return as well as setting the water level for skimmer.

Bdog4u2 · Jun 7, 2017

You could of still used it without the bio balls if the price was right

Philt56 · Jun 7, 2017

You could still use it, and get a filter sock holder Ike this https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01A7IZ9AU/ref=psdc_2975472011_t1_B0042N6VAO
Eshoppes also make a similar. If you can swap out the pvc pipe with the drilled holes with solid pvc or holes and connect to the bulkheads. Or you might be able to just use the hose originally feeding those pvc and connect it to sock bulkheads.

I have one of these in my sump instead of the bioballs https://www.amazon.com/CerMedia-Mar...=1496881519&sr=1-1&keywords=marine+pure+block

Is your tank drilled to connect the hose? I never liked those hose, look like pool filter hoses. I guess they may be more flexible than regular tubing.

NY_Sea · Jun 7, 2017

If the price is right You can totally use that sump pretty easily. I'd leave the first section alone and replace the bio balls with live rock and just use filter pad on top of the first tray. The second bio ball area you could place your skimmer.

Then leave the sponge and put your return pump and reactor in the last section. Split the return line to feed the reactor with a manifold.

Philt56 · Jun 7, 2017

Here is my sump with a filter sock adapter

rstrann · Jun 7, 2017

Tough to tell from the pic...but what is the thickness of the acrylic on that wet/dry sump? It doesn't look eurobraced...so I'd proceed with a bit of caution if you plan on converting it into a reef-style sump. The pressure of the water may be too much for the joints to handle.