Need advice: Sump Designs?

[TipStylez]

Im building a sump out of a 10gal. It will be for a 55gal.

First question is...

Hows my design?.

Color Key
BLUE: Drip Plate
GREEN: Egg crate layers
YELLOW: Heater
RED: Deviders
BROWN: Pump
LIGHT BLUE: Bio Balls
GREY: Filter pads
PURPLE: PVC Tubing

Now the question is...
How big of an opening should i make for the devider for the water to exit? Also how far and tall should i make the 2nd devider/silencer?

2nd question is...
How can you tell what the GPH is of your overflow box? I need this to figure if my overflow will work with my pump.

Thanks

 

[Dr Joe]

The first divider is holding the bio-material in place, so depending on the other measurements 1"-2" from the bottom.

The second divider regulates the water level for the bio-material, average 1/3 of material under water.

The bottom eggcrate doesn't need to be that thick, put on pvc legs for circulation.

You need a pre-filter on top of the drip plate.

and don't seal the top.

Are you going to use the DIY overflows mostly used here?

Dr Joe

.

 

[TipStylez]

no i went out and got a used one.