Setting up a sump

Baffle height should be set to allow for the system water in the pipes to drain into the sump without overflowing. I use two baffles for each segment to eliminate air passing forward to the return pump, but I'm not sure it's needed.

I use three compartments, you might choose a different number. First is the return from the display, it contains the filter and my skimmer. Second is a deep sand bed and macro algae chamber that also contains my grounding probe and pH probe. Final is the return pump and ATO float sensors.

For holes in the tank I use 1" bulkheads. Gives you lots of flexibility.

Where to locate the hole for the overflow? Are you adding an over flow box? My 120 has dual overflows located at the back and 1/3 of the way from each end. I like the look.

How many holes for return? If you can fit them in I like three, one for the return pump (for a tank this size 3/4 inch is fine from the pump unless you're going a long way, and TWO drains in the overflow to make a Herbie. A Herbie overflow is very quiet when properly adjusted. On all my plumbing I use True Union valves to enable me to adjust the flow and remove segments as needed.

Not sure on the size of the pump. I'm using a Jebao 12,000 on mine and it handles the flow fine at 70%. The nice thing about a DC pump is they are quiet and the flow is controller adjustable.

Others will have opinions and you will be able to pick and choose what you like for your tank. Let us know what you decide.

Fatman

Thank you both for the good information. Does anyone else have any ideas as well? The more information the better in my opinion. Also, does anyone have any pics of their tanks and specifically the plumbing that they can share to help me out? Does anyone have a 40 gallon tank drilled for a sump?

Thanks.

Here are a couple of pics. The tank is on it's side. This only shows the return line in place but you can see the two bulk heads for the drain lines. This is from when the first tank failed with a crack down the side. I built another one just the same and it has been running almost 2 years now. I'll still look for some more that show all of the plumbing.

Edited by Krazie4Acans - January 29 2016 at 9:42pm

I would suggest if you can go with a sump it helps alot, as you can have additional water volume along with all your equipment in the sump (not a fan of stuff in the tank). Yes there is added expense but one well worth it in my opinion.

Totally agree with Krazie on this one, or disagree with Mark how ever you look at it.

Mark you already posted the thread of all threads about the ways that you like to run reefs. The issue I have isn't with whether those methods work or don't. My issue is that those ideas have been around for quite a while and we know that they work if that's what you are going for. Unfortunately, that is not what this thread was about and there is also newer, more current ways of doing things as well and the OP is about adding a sump. I don;t feel like your information is supporting that idea or direction.