Question on filtering a 260

[Angler]

I know that a sump would be the best option because of their capacity for bio and they are apparently easy to build and use.

If I don't want to deal with a sump, could I have just as effective filtration with something like 2 FX5s and an XP3 as I would have with a 55 or so gallon sump?

Do any of you have tanks this big or bigger without a sump and have success keeping your water clear and your parameters in check?

 

[DMasker]

IMO I would use a sump plus a FX5 or two.

 

[JK47]

I think you would be more than fine with two FX5's. I am planning a small sump and two FX5's on my 300. The sump is basically only there for the drip system and so I can do filter cleaning more often..

 

[HULON]

Hey angler i did not know anything about sump until i asked nutcase to help me build one they are so simple once everything comes together in your mind at least for me now i would always do sump and canister to supliment.You really ought to give a sump or wet dry a try...

 

[Angler]

IMO I would use a sump plus a FX5 or two.

Yeah, most people will say they would use a sump, but, as I said, the question I am asking is will the canisters be sufficient filtration for keeping my water crystal and my parameters healthy.

I think you would be more than fine with two FX5's. I am planning a small sump and two FX5's on my 300. The sump is basically only there for the drip system and so I can do filter cleaning more often..

Thanks for the input man. I am trying to decide whether I would regret ordering a tank this big without overflows and holes drilled. I'd rather not have overflows taking up space and holes to seal up if I decide on just using canisters.

 

[DMasker]

I would say yes then efficient, however if you don't want to drill the tank why not just DIY PVC overflow? You can always add one as an afterthought.

 

[ccebr]

Tunze 1074/2 overflow. Recently bought this for a grow out tank under the 150, works great. Its rated for a flow rate of 1000 litres per hour but you can upgrade the pipe to make it higher. Have a look into it, it doesn't take up much space in the tank at all. But maybe a tank of this size would require 2 overflows.

Regarding the initial question, I haven't had a tank as large as yours, but I'm very overstocked (note signature) and am currently running an FX5 alongside Eheim Pro 3. No problems at all with water quality and the water is very clear.

 

[JK47]

Thanks for the input man. I am trying to decide whether I would regret ordering a tank this big without overflows and holes drilled. I'd rather not have overflows taking up space and holes to seal up if I decide on just using canisters.

If it where my tank (depending on acrylic or glass) if it were acrylic, I would not have the overflows installed. Drilling tanks is so easy you can do it yourself if you decide to down the road. Sumps are very easy once you get the concept too. I have a "man-crush" on FX5's though. Love those filters.

 

[Angler]

Hey angler i did not know anything about sump until i asked nutcase to help me build one they are so simple once everything comes together in your mind at least for me now i would always do sump and canister to supliment.You really ought to give a sump or wet dry a try...

Yeah. I have been looking at some designs, and they do look pretty simple. I just hate the idea of something leaking or the sump overflowing because I made some stupid mistake.

I would say yes then efficient, however if you don't want to drill the tank why not just DIY PVC overflow? You can always add one as an afterthought.

Tunze 1074/2 overflow. Recently bought this for a grow out tank under the 150, works great. Its rated for a flow rate of 1000 litres per hour but you can upgrade the pipe to make it higher. Have a look into it, it doesn't take up much space in the tank at all. But maybe a tank of this size would require 2 overflows.

Regarding the initial question, I haven't had a tank as large as yours, but I'm very overstocked (note signature) and am currently running an FX5 alongside Eheim Pro 3. No problems at all with water quality and the water is very clear.

Thanks for the input guys.

If it where my tank (depending on acrylic or glass) if it were acrylic, I would not have the overflows installed. Drilling tanks is so easy you can do it yourself if you decide to down the road. Sumps are very easy once you get the concept too. I have a "man-crush" on FX5's though. Love those filters.

It is going to be acrylic. I don't want to not have the overflows, and then decide down the road after it is all set up that I want to empty everything and drill holes.

If you guys think the canisters will filter it fine, then I guess it just comes down to how much I want to spend, and whether I want to DIY or not. I do have a friend on here who has made a sump and will help me.

 

[CA-Delta]

Do any of you have tanks this big or bigger without a sump and have success keeping your water clear and your parameters in check?

Sure do,
I have a 240 with a Hybrid UGF and two Whole house filters that has been up and running for 30 + years.
In the interest of fair reporting I am about to reverse the flow to reduce gravel vacs.