Nothing Is Just "Ready to Go"

[DocRose]

I'm getting really frustrated trying to find a good system for the space I have. I can go up to 48" long, but would prefer to stay in the 36" range. The problem I'm having, is that every system I find (Waterbox, Red Sea Reefer) have sumps that don't take into consideration the use of a skimmer and a refugium. So then it becomes me having to buy a sump that does (such as a Trigger System from BRS). At that point I feel like, "What's the point in spending the money for the complete system?" So then I look at the cost of the sumps that DO have two sections, and their cost is up there with the cost of the complete system! :mad:

 

[Jekyl]

I'm getting really frustrated trying to find a good system for the space I have. I can go up to 48" long, but would prefer to stay in the 36" range. The problem I'm having, is that every system I find (Waterbox, Red Sea Reefer) have sumps that don't take into consideration the use of a skimmer and a refugium. So then it becomes me having to buy a sump that does (such as a Trigger System from BRS). At that point I feel like, "What's the point in spending the money for the complete system?" So then I look at the cost of the sumps that DO have two sections, and their cost is up there with the cost of the complete system! :mad:

Just make one. It's really simple and much cheaper. Watch for the petco deal and get a 40b for $40. Then get a sheet or 2 of acrylic from home depot and some silicone. Quick Google images search and then cut and paste.

 

[DocRose]

Just make one. It's really simple and much cheaper. Watch for the petco deal and get a 40b for $40. Then get a sheet or 2 of acrylic from home depot and some silicone. Quick Google images search and then cut and paste.

I made my own 10 gallon; but I’d really just rather buy something professionally made this time .

 

[Jon's Reef]

Red Sea Reefer 300xl has a skimmer and refugium section

 

[DocRose]

Red Sea Reefer 300xl has a skimmer and refugium section

How can you tell? Every image I see always shows the same layout sump.

 

[C_AWOL]

Why not go to an lfs/glass cages/other and see if they can customize a whole tank + stand and sump to accomodate your needs?
Could also possibly see some of these systems in person to gauge if theyre right for you or not as well

 

[DocRose]

Why not go to an lfs/glass cages/other and see if they can customize a whole tank + stand and sump to accomodate your needs?
Could also possibly see some of these systems in person to gauge if theyre right for you or not as well

Well I know I LOVE the Red Sea systems... It's really just the sump that I took issue with. However, as @Jon's Reef mentioned, the 300 XL has a chamber for both skimmer and refugium (I confirmed it). So I may just go with that one. However, I'll take your advice and head up to my LFS and ask them if they know anyone local that can build me a system identical (with maybe a tweak or two) to the Red Sea Reefer 300 XL, and do better with the pricing.

 

[C_AWOL]

Honestly after owning a few big tanks I would rather pay more to get exactly what I would be happy with vs save a few bucks and get something I would regret in the long run which cost $$$$.