Is a sump required on 25 gallon

[tencwhiskey]

I have had my 25 gallon up an running for a couple of months. I have been told by LFS of course I need to buy a sump. What are most people doing? I do weekly 10% water changes and everything so far has been good.

 

[GHill762]

you don't need a sump, you don't even need a skimmer.. but the best thing I ever did on my first reef was add a sump, then my second tank I drilled from the get-go.. it makes everything cleaner (gets equipment out of your DT) and makes maintenance easier IMO.

doesn't have to be expensive, if you want to add one I'd recommend the eshopps HOB overflow and make a DIY sump from a glass aquarium.. pretty easy. you could probably add one on for $100-150 if you can get a tank at the $1/g sale..

 

[PaulKreider]

Not a nessesity, I don't have one and I think my tank is great. But with a 25gal you are going to have quicker swings in levels, calc, ph, nitrates ect. So in your case adding a sump would be beneficial for adding water volume to help slow down these swings.

 

[LPSGUY]

Not needed but always easier to have a sump. More water volume, easier for maintenance, etc.