Filtration on a budget help

[Fishman0]

Plans are still in the works...

desired final tank size is to be either 72"x36"x36"(~405gal), or 72"x24"x36"(~270gal)

Stocking: 3 PBass (Mono/Ocell I think), Pleco, possibly tsn or Large oscar

QUESTION:

Would it be easier/cheaper to [1] build a DIY sump OR [2] use an FX5 and 2 AC110's?

I wanted the filtration to be less than $500 if possible

option 1 would be more work but i dont mind, option 2 would be a lot easier.

any help is appreciated, pics with costs would be great

 

[Deaths Sting]

[1] build a DIY sump

 

[Fishman0]

for the sump, what size (gal) should i shoot for with either tank size?

 

[Deaths Sting]

for the sump, what size (gal) should i shoot for with either tank size?

depends on what u can afford as u said ur on a budget.

however, i would go no smaller then a 55 gallon.

u may be able to save money on the sump by making it out of something other then a tank

 

[livingart]

i built one out of a plastic barrel for less than 300 including the pump

 

[drb]

You can buy a sump and pump ready to go for under 500.

 

[KaiserSousay]

The more you know, the less it will cost.
A quality, high volume, DIY, wet/dry can be put together for under $200.

 

[Fishman0]

I know that the majority of the cost of a sump is in the pump, the actual sump can be what determines the price.

Is there a thread which explains how to size a sump to the tank? I know the bigger the better, but any general rule?

Im sure it all depends on the design as well

 

[KaiserSousay]

Most often the limiting factor for sump size is what can fit in the stand.
To keep your costs to a minimum, a sterlite/rubbermaid tub, of the largest size you can stuff in your stand would be a start.
A plastic drawer unit can act as media tower.
Almost instant wet/dry.
Would be around a $20, or less.
A few hand tools and a power drill, with an assortment of bits, are all you would need to get the whole thing into use.
Add a Via-Aqua, CA, or other china clone pump, and you could be moving 1,000gph+, for less than $80 including shipping.
Other than plumbing parts, you would have around $100 into your sump.
You can sure spend more, but the above system would work just as good as a system of 3-4 times it`s cost.

 

[knicks791]

Spending 220 (FX5)+ 35 (bio media) is worth not having to dealing with DIY wet/dry IMO.

But will agree that wet/dry > fx5 in regards to filtration.