My first sump build and need ideas and help

[ExoticGREEN]

Ok so i have a 160g acrylic tank that has a built in overflow.I have this empty 20g that i plan on useing for a while.I thought about buying a mag drive 12 or 18, and a maxi jet 12 pro powerhead.And i need help with pvc and connection between the overflow and sump.And for ideas for biomedia for the sump...so thxks for lookin and pls help........i will have pics of the built in overflow today later on

 

[EastBay]

Connections from the overflow to the sump can simply be plastic, flexible tubing or spa tubing. I use both on my tanks. You can use PVC, but it's pretty unforgiving. You don't get a lot of wiggle room if you have to move or change something.
As for media, I have a wet/dry system on one of my tanks that uses bioballs. In my other tank, I filled it with lava rocks.
As far as pumps, you just have to make sure you have equilibrium between the amount of water going through the overflow to the amount of water being pumped back into the tank. Mags and Maxijets are good, solid products.
Good luck!

 

[gavigan1]

If possible get a bigger sump ( you will be glad you did later) maybe a used 55 gal off craigs list.

Beananimal style over flow style to silence the overflow.

Use 100-50 micron filter socks and submerged ceramic noodles media

 

[Jc1119]

You'll need a little bigger sump for sure. How many holes in your overflow? Beananimal needs 3 holes. Herbie needs 2....both will be safe and silent, but it really depends on what you have available and what you're willing to do as far as cutting extra holes and such....

 

[brich999]

Noise of your plumbing is always a pita depending on where your tank is. Look into diff ways to quiet it down if you don't want to drill more holes. Personally I like PVC for the line from tank to sump, and it looks very clean if you do it right. It doesn't take a degree ifluid mechanics, just take your time. As far as media, if you are doing small sump like 20g, def go with high quality ceramic like biomax. If you go bigger, something like sachem matrix would be great. I would also recommend filter socks, just try diff sizes like mentioned, and find what is a good compromise between clarity and maintenance. You don't want to have to change them daily

 

[mmdht2]

20g is really small for a sump. you want the biggest sump you can fit. you can put your heaters, chemical and mechanical in it. i have a 500g tank with a 135g sump. there is even enough room for a temp "hospital" section just before the return. you should get at least a 75g. it's only $75 on sale all the time. make sure your pump matches your supply from your overflow.

 

[ExoticGREEN]

well the 20g is all i can fit and here is a pic of the over flow