Need sump help

[vtnamezeboi]

It's my first time running a sump. Currently have a RS-200 gen 3 sump. My issue is the sump isn't getting enough water to pump back into the tank. It only cycles properly when my tank water is filled max. But after 2-3 days I guess water precipitates and I end up having to put the pump sump to min pump settings. What I did was hooked up a pump with 1/4" line into the back of my tank so it helps fill the sump faster. Did I set something up wrong? Sumps cannot be this complicated. My concern is not enough water getting into the sump and burning out the pump.

 

[soupa2]

If you don’t cover the sump the water will evaporates very quickly. When you fill it to max and stop the pump how much water does the sump filled? Your drain hole might be too high if your sump are not getting enough water from your tank above.

 

[twentyleagues]

Need some info.
What kind of overflow do you have?
Line size to and from tank?
Distance from sump to tank?
Pump? And if known head pressure and max gph at distance from tank to sump?
Pics?

 

[esoxlucius]

Sounds like a basic drain diameter/return diameter descrepancy with a bit of inadequate overflow thrown in for good measure. That'll squiff your balance of flow.

Whatever it is it will be easily solved. As you said, "sumps cannot be this complicated". A few pictures may help us identify any issues you have.

 

[Ulu]

The drain is too small IMO

Maybe just add another drain to the system?

If I can't crank my pump up all the way with the drains halfway clogged I don't have enough drainage.