DIY Sump

[rossim]

Ok, first off, don't laugh that hard at my drawing.

I'm about to attempt to build my first sump. Based on everything I've read so far, I think these plans (not to scale ) should work. The baffel between the fuge and the return will have some teeth to trap algee/criters that try to get over. Am I on the right track???

 

[gesswhosbak]

It looks good to me, i think you do want the skimmer before the fuge like you have it. If i am wrong someone correct me.

 

[footbag]

Skimmer would be better before the fuge for bubble reasons. Also the first baffle on the left is unnecesary. Otherwise your looking good.

 

[mburnickas]

Skimmer always goes before fuge so it does not skim out the good stuff from the fuge.
Yup, footbag is correct. First baffle on left is not needed.
I made a fuge awhile ago here is the link. If it helps to get more on a picture.
http://home.comcast.net/~sump/sump1.htm

 

[rossim]

I just got back from the LFS with all my supplies. However, looking at the 10 gallon tank and the size of the skimmer and the return pump, I'll hardly have any room for a fuge.

They mentioned to me that I didn't need a fuge in the sump and could simply keep the skimmer and return pump in there along with the heater. Are there any benefits to this? Does anyone have any suggestions as to what I should do? Should I build a small fuge or just set the sump up without one? Is there anything else I can do???

 

[nyreefer]

You may want to buy a 20gallon long (about $20) to accomodate the fuge. IMO if you are going to the trouble to set all this up you will want one, it will dramatically improve your water quality.

 

[chrisj]

I agree that the fuge is a good idea if you can do it. Unfortunately, I don't have one But I have my Berlin skimmer, UV Sterilizer, Heater, fluidized bed filter and heater all in my sump and have great luck. My water quality is excellent :joy: