DIY Sump/Refigium Plans. Comments and advise?

[dpeterd]

Hi all. pre-newbie reefkeeper here.
I am converting a SWFO 55g into a reef and need to build an acrylic DIY sump/refugium. I need something long and skinny because of the space restrictions. The tank will have a modified DSB (aragonite only) with plenum and 60-80lb of live rock. The return pump will be Mag 9.5. Haven't decided on a skimmer yet. The link below has pics of my plans. I would appreciate any comments or advise.


http://home.comcast.net/~dpeterd/diy_sump.htm

Note: I have already decided to remove the sponge filter leading into the sump area. Do I have enough baffles to get rid of bubbles?

Many tanks!

 

[OrionGirl]

Just to clarify from the drawing--it looks like the water flow goes in to the top of the skimmer? Because this won't work--the top portion of the skimmer is where the dry foam is forced into from below, and into the collection cup. Also, where is the filter bag? Actually inside the skimmer? Like I said, just for clarification!

Otherwise, I would probably add a few more baffles. You'll want to do some testing to make sure the fuge stays warm enough, since the cooler water from the tank will be going in there without going through the heater.

 

[dpeterd]

Thanks Onion Girl. Sorry the drawing isn't clear. The water comes in to the sump in a chmber next to the skimmer and into a filter bag.

Good point about the heaters. I'll have to give that some thought. Perhaps switch the baffles and the heaters.