Need Help With Finding A Sump.

[AWRI2001]

Hello all,

have a few questions regarding my new reef build that is in the works.
firstly, I will be using an ADA 60p (approx. 17 gallons) as the tank. Unsure wether or not I am able to drill these tanks. I was told they’re tempered glass, but have read a few things on here where others said they did drill them?
secondly, if I am able to drill it I am looking for a sump. Would definitely prefer prebuilt and something with around 15-20 gallons of total water volume. Along with that the return pump and proper skimmer. Please let me know your recommendations

 

[Quietman]

You can use HOB overflow. If set up correctly they are very reliable. I'd say infallible but someone will have a story about something. But seriously - look into LifeReef overflows. Solid product and excellent reputation.

There's also ways to tell if tempered or not using polarized sunglasses. I'm not familiar with that so others will chime in or just do a search on here.

That small of sump you are best served by getting a 20 gallon tank and a sump kit (BRS and ebay both have them - Fiji Baffle kit or similar). A bit of siliconing in place and you're off and running. They may have sumps for nanos but the designs are limited to a small area which really can limit your options on equipment. Baffle kit allows you to do what you want.

Go smaller on the return pump. I would start with Sicce 1.0 or 1.5. It'll save hundreds over DC and at that size under a cabinet you won't hear it. And nothing yet beats an AC motor for reliability. Install a ball valve for throttling on the output which ideally you leave wide open. I used one for first year before moving to Tunze DC 1073.05 Silence pump. But that's because needed adjustable for UV, still have the Sicce for backup.

Skimmer? Really any name brand on the smaller side will work. You'll need that before sump so you can size skimmer section correctly. I don't know if one is really needed (will depend on your stocking) for that size. Water changes work wonders as does an upflow algae scrubber (lots of nutrient removal in very small space).

Good luck!