Need help setting up sump/refugium

[deeznutz1878812]

Hey,
Just bought a used 90 gal setup. I have never used a sump/refugium and could use some help/advice on what I need to still get. I need recommendations on the pump I need as well as I don't feel like I have everything I need for my setup. Any help, advice, comments are much appreciated. Thanks in advance. I have pics of what came with my setup.

 

[joekool]

It all depends on your budget.
Is the tank drilled? Or have a built in overflow?

You could get DCT jacod jebao pump probably a 3000 or 4000.
Quite one or sicce are great pumps that won’t let you down.

Luckily items for a 90 are relatively affordable.

If you run your pump external through the bulkhead you can fit a skimmer in there.

The sump you have there came with a drip plate and bio balls. Not sure if you have that.

May be a better idea to just buy a 20 gallon glass tank especially when the stores like pe_co has dollar per gallon sales. You can make your own setup with glass panels and silicone. Google diy sump for ideas.

 

[deeznutz1878812]

Thanks...Yes the tank is drilled and has an overflow....and now that you say something about bio balls that does sound familiar that this was used with this......are bio balls something not worth bothering with? My budget is not crazy huge but not afraid to spend a little bit, but in your opinion am I wasting time n money on vetting this back in order and just starting from scratch being a better idea?

 

[joekool]

I’d probably not use that and go with a tank with more room in it. How much room in your stand?
I would plumb a full siphon and emergency drain in the two holes in the overflow and plumb the return up and over the top.
I got to go but I’ll help you as much as I can tomorrow.

 

[deeznutz1878812]

Sounds good thanks....there is quite a bit of room in the stand imo

 

[Fin]

I would agree on going with another glass tank with baffles. Maybe even a 40B for $40 (if it would fit in your stand) and have plenty of room for equipment. That is a wet dry filter that you have. A gutted one at that. Something more prevalent in the 80's. Spend some time browsing around R2R and looking at other people's sumps and decide on what you want to do with yours. Lots of possibilities.

There are even lots of pre-made acrylic ones out there. Maybe take a look at the Trigger System sumps, if you are interested in going with a pre-made sump. They are good quality sumps for a reasonable cost. There are lots of other manufacturers out there. But, if you like to DIY, a few baffles siliconed in place to create different compartments is not a difficult project.