DIY SUMP - Need help

JimmyOrangeSeed

JimmyOrangeSeed

Cleaner Shrimp
#1
#1
Hey guys!

So I am trying to figure out the best way to upgrade my sump. I currently have a drilled 75g mixed reef and my sump is a clear plastic tub from target. Actually, I have used this tub for the last 4 years. I would LOVE to upgrade to something more "real" but I can't figure out what my best plan of action would be.....

I currently use a Reef Octopus protein skimmer that would need to be able to sit in the sump. I also have a return pump that sits in the sump and I would really like to make a refuge area in the middle for all my macro algae.....

Most normal glass tanks would either be too small or too big. A 40g breeder is soooo close but just too wide. I want to max out all the space under my tank. Anyone make their own sump? I know I could get one custom made but its pretty expensive for a sump. Any DIY help would be great! :eagerness:
 
Smiley

Smiley

Nurse Shark
M.A.S.C Club Member
#2
#2
Building sumps is easy...just need some glass panes cut to size, silicon from HD, and some acetone/alcohol. Here is a pic of a 46 that I built years ago, and am currently building a 75g to replace it.

[attachment=64196:name]
 
D

daverf

Tang
M.A.S.C Club Member
#3
#3
Thought I saw someone post that the $1/gallon sale is going on at Petco?? Grab one!

My suggestion: I highly recommend a sump without any baffles. Can swap stuff out, try all kinds of new stuff, and best of all do massive water changes right from the sump. Then you're not locked into any configuration. Especially if you have ATO - then keeping the water level at whatever you may need is zero issue (and you should have ATO any way :) ).

You can use eggcrate to build platforms (for example to get the skimmer to the right size) and baskets (to hold macro), plastic bins (rubbermaid roughneck etc) to hold a DSB, filter socks, filter pads, zip ties, etc etc.

There are downsides and it wouldn't work for any application....but worth thinking about...

There are guys that build custom acrylic sumps as well around here. Tom Laabs owns ADHI, just sold his share of Aquamart but you can call them and ask how to reach him. I'm sure you'll get other leads...and other suggestions/alternatives to mine as well...
 
DyM

DyM

Sting ray
M.A.S.C Club Member
#4
#4
I agree with Dave, I've had a lot of sumps and without baffles you can move things around when needed (a lot easier). For my 72 gal, I have one of those 40 gal breeder tanks as my sump. Good luck.
 
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