Im adding a sump to my system, give me my shopping list please

azonic

Active Member
Like the topic says...Im looking to add a sump to my 90 gallon reef. The tank is not drilled. Can someone please give me a list of everything I would need to get in order to do it? I mean every little thing, down to the most minor part.
Also, im eventually going to add a refugium as well, I have a 10 gallon tank sitting in my closet would that work for that? How would I setup both the sump and the refugium? Thanks in advance.
 

q

Member
Well lets see:
1) Overflow box
2)Decide if you want to run the flexiable clear tubing or PVC. I am using the flexiable hose BTW.
3)Other plumbing items: If you go with the clear tubing then you will need nipples and also good hose clamps. If you use the PVC then you will need the primer and gue along with elbows.
4) You may want baffels in the sump.
5) Might want a sponge or mouse pad to put under the return pump if one isn't supplied with it to reduce the noise if any were to occur.
6) If the overflow is noisy check https://www.saltwaterfish.com/vb/showthread.php?s=&threadid=2561 out.
7) Return pump just to state the obvious
8) A permanint marker to mark the water level where you set it at for evaproation and make-up water.
As for the refugium I will let somone who has some experience with them advise you
As of now that is all I can think of.
 

richard rendos

Active Member
To add to the list, a ball valve for the output of the return pump. This will help control the flow rate. Also helps control noise in overflow box caused by too much or too little water flow.
 

broomer5

Active Member
Just to repeat:
Sump ( glass tank, rubbermaid or acrylic )
Return Pump
Quarter turn pvc ball valve ( 1/2" larger sized than return line I.D. )
Return Line ( flex or pcv )
Spraybar fitting and way to attach to tank
External U tube overflow w/prefilter sponge - flowrate less than overflow rating
Drain hose ( flex or pvc )
Method to attach or connect drain to sump
Misc pvc fittings, hose clamps, elbows, primer, cement.
 

nm reef

Active Member
I'm doing the same to my reef...adding a dual over-flow with a 29 gal sump(needs a couple sheets of plexi-glass for dividers). I'm also getting a good skimmer and return pump.I plan to use PVC so I'll need the assorted parts and stuff. The supplier of the overflow is also sending a distribution manifold that will return to the display via 4 1/2" returns. Other than the major parts may another $50-$100 for misc. costs.
I already have a 2 stage refugium that has a low flow rate & about 70 gal volume. It gravity returns to the display ...after the sump is set-up the refugium will still be isolated from the sump as far as returning to the display. The display now feeds the refugiums flow....soon i"ll run about 150GPH thru the refugium from the new sump. I want to return from the refugium via flexiable lines...I just like the idea of multiple slow returns from the refugium.
Hopefully tomorrow I'll actually have all the new stuff on order. I'm looking forward to the improvements......plan in advance ...be patient....and I hope yours does well also!
 

slothy

Active Member
they sell ready to go sumps (all the pieces u need minus pump), just connect hoses, set flow and your done.. very very easy
 

slothy

Active Member
i got mine (made for a 60 gal) overflow/tubing/bioballs/prefilter ect for 120.00 sealife creations makes (dunno if thats a name brand)
ya i know for cheaper u can make one.....................
 

azonic

Active Member
All the lists seem great...but how does it all go together? Assuming im using PVC pip, how would it all go together? Which little parts do i need? Do i need to do anything special to the tank i plan to use for it? Probably just a 25 or 30 gallon tank...
 

shadow678

Member
I would highly recommend using FilStar's Bio-Chem Stars instead of regular bio-pin balls. They are much more effective and house 30% more beneficial bacteria. They also don't need water height adjustment.
 

broomer5

Active Member
Azonic,
Here's what I did on my 75 reef. It may give you some ideas for your own set up, or you can pitch it in the trashcan.
Either way - here's the drawing.
 

lurch694u

Member
Broomer5 that is a great help with the sump and refugium! I like that setup I'm going with that setup... Also the pics on your website of your sump helps out also... :) Great job!!
 
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