Need help with a sump design, build, etc...

[AllenIsbell]

I'm in the process of building a 25 gallon nano marine FOWLR tank.

I'm debating my filtration options. I like the idea of having less clutter, and more nature in the tank, so I'm thinking that I want to go with a sump.

Something like this:
http://tylermerrick.com/blog/index.p.../diy-10g-sump/

I don't mind doing any of the handy work that is required. I live for DIY projects.

Now, first of all, I'm going to need to drill my tank. Here are the things I need to figure out:

1. Size of PVC to use IF I use hard PVC instead of the flex-style. I can make anything with PVC. It's easy, but I have heard that the flex-hose is much more user friendly. (I have never used the flex-style, and if someone could point me in the right direction with it, I would greatly appreciate it.)

2. What size holes do I need to drill in my tank, and where should I drill them? (I know HOW to do it, just need to know the specifics)

3. How many gph should the return pump be?

Side notes: I plan on adding a protein skimmer, but not at first. Only when funds allow.

Thanks, everyone!

[Cliff]

In addition to the feedback I posted in your tank journel, I would suggest reading through the below links. They might clear up at least some of your questions.

http://saltwater.aquaticcommunity.co...umbing-basics/

http://saltwater.aquaticcommunity.co...e-sump-basics/


Let me know if this helps

[AllenIsbell]

Great articles! Thank you for sharing those!

I still have a couple of questions, as my application isn't the same as yours.

I like your design where the skimmer is in the middle of the sump. The only difference I would have is the media reactor. I won't be using one of those. I will be drawing up a diagram. I'll run it by you before doing anything to make sure I've got it right.

Flow rate. I have read that the general rule of thumb is you should turn the water over 10x/hour. My tank is 25 gallons, so I should aim for 250gph. Now, looking at the chart, 1/2" PVC will give me a 200gph gravity drain. 3/4" will give me 400gph. With that being said, should I go with 3/4" so I don't risk backing up my drain in case my pump is more than 200gph? (Which it will be because I plan on getting one that will get me roughly 250gph after the loss of flow from gravity and bends while traveling up to the display tank.)

[Cliff]

10X flow is just a rule of thumb. You should match the flow to your skimmer, but having said that, a little more can be a little better

I would always suggest a little larger pipe size on the drain line. It will make it a lot easier to make your drain line almost dead silent thay way when you use a duriso stand pipe on the drian line

[AllenIsbell]

I definitely want it to be quite.

So, am I going to have to make an overflow box inside my display tank for the return? I was thinking I could get away with having a hole drilled at the top of each side of the tank. Basically sort of how a bathroom sink works with the little overflow holes near the rim.

Like this:

[Cliff]

When used in combination with a power head or two (or in your case a canister with a spilt return line) that would work very well, at least IMO.

[AllenIsbell]

Holddddddd up.

I think I just solved about 63% of my issues.

http://www.marinedepot.com/CPR_CS50_...CR1511-vi.html

I think I am willing to spend the money on this, and deal with the hum of an air pump instead of drilling holes in the glass, buying pieces of glass to make an overflow box, building a standpipe, etc... This looks too good to be true, haha.

I'm not afraid to tackle any DIY job, but since I'm a beginner in the aquarium deal, I think my best bet is to just buy one of these.

[AllenIsbell]

Found this one on ebay.

The design seems to be very similar to the CPR, and half the price.

http://www.ebay.com/itm/Overflow-Box...item43b715f86b

[AllenIsbell]

Here is one in action.