sump questions

[jpkboca]

What exactly are the point of baffles in a sump? As I understand it they are to stop microbubbles between the intake and return? I assume it is the bubbles that is the reasoning.
Is it necessary to have baffles, this is just for information now. I mean is a sump inefficient, or a problem if you just had a tank with the skimmer in it, and return on the other side? Is the concern micro bubbles? Just curious what the exact reasoning is, as I never found an explanation why it couldn't be just one big 'tub' of water with the intake on one side and the return on the other.
Thanks,
Jeff

 

[mr_x]

it can be one big tub. the skimmer will put out bubbles though. if the sump is big enough, you won't see them getting sucked up by the return. otherwise, you need baffles. plus, your evap happens in the sump- if the whole water level goes down, your skimmer will sit in a less than optimal water level.

 

[jpkboca]

Originally Posted by Mr_X
http:///forum/post/2712130
it can be one big tub. the skimmer will put out bubbles though. if the sump is big enough, you won't see them getting sucked up by the return. otherwise, you need baffles. plus, your evap happens in the sump- if the whole water level goes down, your skimmer will sit in a less than optimal water level.
Thanks, I'm new to this. The skimmer sitting in less then optimal water explains it better, and see the point better now.
Appreciate it.
Jeff

 

[jpkboca]

If I were to install baffles, just have a return section and intake that has my skimmer, etc in it. What is the recommended height of the baffles? I know they say a inch between baffles.
I am using a coralife super skimmer 125 if that makes a difference.
Thanks,
Jeff

 

[mr_x]

the skimmer is most likely recommended to go in about 8"-10" of water, however, i'd make the baffles as high as you can and still have room at the top in the event of a power outtage. i just prop my skimmer up on a little eggcrate stand i made to bring it up to height. i like the extra water volume. i use a 125 gallon tank as a sump, and i don't want to waste all of that space.