Sump filtering system

[kdguam]

Does anyone know how to make a sump filtering system? Or at least ideas of how this is done? I have some plastic drums that I think would make great sump filtering system.

 

[rayman45]

what are the demetions of the drums.... ill try to figure one out for ya

 

[throttle]

I have two 55 gallon plastic drums that I am going to make a sump out of for my multiple tank setup. I don't have any for sure plans, but the basic idea is to have the tank water dump in the top of the first drum over a suspended container holding batting for mechanical filtering. Below that will be pot scrubbers suspended for biological wet/dry filtration. I am going to connect the 2 drums in the middle with pvc pipe. The second drum will be for overflow from the first drum and where the return pump will be connected. I am also thinking putting floating plants like anacharis (spelling) with a plant light hanging above in the second drum to help cut down the nitrates etc. This is just my plan so far I don't have any "blueprints". Hope this will help

 

[rayman45]

im thinking the same as you are

im also thinking stack them like D.W does..

 

[kdguam]

They are standard 30 gallon drums. Roughly 2' diameter and about 3-4 feet tall.

 

[trigger]

drums would be great. if you have overflows simpley let the water flow into the drum. drill the drum, put a bulkhead into it and attach a pump to the bulkhead. From the pump back into the tank. if you dont have overflows they sell overflow boxes that will do the job. you didnt say how large the tank was but make sure if the system stops the drum can handle the overflow untill the water stops flowing. if you are using overflows drill a small hole just below the water in the return line so when the water hits this levil the water flow is broken