Tote for a sump

[Justin0123]

Hi I'm thinking of making a 20 gallon tote my sump? It fits perfect under my stand and it's fairly simple to put a couple ballast, a protein skimmer and some heaters. Also planning on making my old crap of a hob filter for my overflow out of the back with minimal work. It actually has a pump that can pull in water into overflow in case I need more flow but don't see me needing it. Running 3/4" pvc w/ ball valves. Question is has anyone ever had any problems with this setup or has a intelligent opinion on the goods and the bad points. Also may use two separate totes or connected by a bilge and pvc cut thru side bottom of totes. Just putting this out there im currently going to buy the cheapest protein skimmer for 25$. So I'm on a tight budget so any extra cheap parts that will help me more than I can is appreciated and I return my favors. Thanks

 

[ReeferBob]

The sump idea will work fine but you'll need an ATO to keep it at the proper level. Also would not advise using the old HOB for the overflow. The intake sits too low under water so if return pump fails you are looking at a lot of water pumped down. Also it is near impossible to balance two pumps - one pumping down and one pumping up. And finally the surface skimmer portion of a proper overflow is very important to SW tanks to take that top scum coat off.

Connecting the two container via a pipe could be a disaster waiting to happen. Make sure they are the same level and use proper bulkhead connectors. It would work ok if you do that.

Realistically you do not need a sump. I would run without until you can afford a proper one.

 

[Justin0123]

Good advice. I'll just use this ten gallon sump I made from a aquarium just to place skimmer. Nothing fancy just a hideaway with skimmer