canister filter vs. sump

[dlee]

I have a 90g with a corner overflow. Reef with soft corals.
I am currently using an eheim canister filter and a hang-on-back Remora skimmer.
Everything is working fine, but I'm wondering if I should upgrade to a sump.

What are the advantages of a sump vs. a canister filter? Is it worth it to me to upgrade?
What about a refugium? How much harder is it to make the sump a refugium?

Thanks.

 

[mpdan]

i had a hang on filter and a hang on skimmer just recently changed over to a sump my parameters are more consistant and the water is crystal clean noticably different since the change over my girlfriend has taken an interest in the tank after 2yrs

 

[dlee]

thanks.....what about the sump makes the water params better than a canister? (sorry if a stupid question)

 

[mpdan]

im not too sure why i have heard people on here say canisters produce nitrate or trites one of the two i dont know if i am getting better water quality because like they say the more water volume the more room for error or if the flow and gas exchange are better also i had algea problems before the change i have had sump running for 3 weeks and have not had to clean inside of glass once
first pic is with hang on second with sump

 

[dlee]

did you build the sump yourself or buy it?

 

[mpdan]

i was gonna build it but got a great deal at lfs gave it to me for $100 couldnt pass it up

 

[woody189]

THey say that a canister fitler because a nitRATE trap when you don't maintain it properly. I'm assuming you're doing a good job maintaining it, because you said you're levels are fine.
A sump will increase water volume, as well as give you a place to keep your equipment, so you don't have it all over your tank. Also, i fyou keep your skimmer in the sump, you won't have all the microbubbles, and it'll make your tank look much cleaner.
I'm in the process of making mine right now. Look in FAQ/ archives section and they have a lot of threads on it.

 

[jackri]

I sump adds more water volume for a more "stable" system in that regards. Also a play to put a skimmer and macro algae for a "fuge". Also more water flow/circulation with the return pump.
I had a canister filter -- hated it (my personal opinion) and now have a sump -- love it.