210 Gallon with sump

[danotaylor]

Hi everyone,

I’m excited because I was able to secure a 6x2 210 gallon. I’m currently designing a stand underneath it. The tank is drilled with two overflows. My issue is the underneath space will only allow for 25.5 inch clearance. I will have an extra 5.5 inches between cross braces if I need a reactor (I don’t know if that is necessary).

I’m looking for a sump that will be able to handle that height and give me enough room to get into it. Looks like 16” tall is the standard?

The other wrinkle is I’ve never had a sump before. Is there anyone who would talk me through the process? I realize that’s asking a lot but I also know there are fish nerds here who probably like talking about these things .

Finally, I’m still undecided on the eventual stocking. I’ve gone between Frontosa, haps and peacocks, and South American. I know that is not exactly narrowing it down.

Help! I need a filtration expert.

Another option is to plumb an FX6 (21" height) on each of your overflow weirs

 

[Mcgorman]

Another option is to plumb an FX6 (21" height) on each of your overflow weirs

Yes I considered this. But having a drilled tank seems like it was meant to have a sump. What are the downsides to plumbing the FX6 right in?

 

[danotaylor]

Drilled tanks are typically made for sumps, but it doesn't have to be so. I have been thinking about plumbing FX6's to my 500gal tank because the sumps are a PITA to keep clean. I got the tank used, & it doesn't have filter socks, it has twin sumps with wet/dry towers. There's not a comfortable amount of space under the stand to easily maintenance the towers, and there is not enough height to install shut off valves on the drain lines. The first tray where the filter floss is housed is hard to access, & with large waste producing fish & heavy feeding, the trays require weekly maintenance & rinsing of the filter floss.
FX6's, whilst also needing to be regularly cleaned, have shut off valves & the entire canister can then be removed completely from under the stand for ease of cleaning &/or maintenance. Once clean, simply plug the drain & return lines back onto the canister, open the valves and away you go once more. Rotate the cleaning every other month to keep the biological filtration maximized.
The biggest down side for me, is that I would really need 4 FX6's, but you're 210g would be fine w 2.