build sump for 180g

[fleckster]

I'm looking for some ideas for using a old 55g glass tank for a sump that will fit under the 180g. would like to have a refugium inside too.

[spsick]

http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p245/benandgi/DSCN04930095.jpg
that's what i did w/ mine, tried having refugium bigger, but that made the topoff area smaller, which isn't a problem if you have auto topoff.
not bad for a free 55 and a $8 diy stand

[spsick]

but for the sake of not having two tanks, you would just have the second part of the return go to the refugium directly
Also, that is a standard 75 next to it and you can see the height difference, anything short of a custom stand, and there will be access issues

[David Grigor]

It really depends on how tall your 180g tank stand is. A 55g is pretty tall for a sump and makes it hard to get equipment ( like skimmers ) in and out of it if your stand is not extra tall........With a typical stock stand it doesn't leave alot of clearance above the sump to get things in/out. It's doable but not ideal IMO. Now if you stand is 36+ clearance then is a non-issue.

[fleckster]

looks good! I will have to drill hole in the glass for my return water. did you buy cut glass and used silicone to keep in place?

[fleckster]

my main tank is 36" high and run my skimmer outside the rubbermaid sump that I'm not real happy with but was cheap. just looking for better performance..

[zryder]

I have turned a 55 into a sump, and it really isnt too hard to do.
I could take a dozen pictures, but it would be really hard to get the idea without seeing it. you are more than welcome to stop over at any time to see it.

[storrisch]

http://www.melevsreef.com/acrylics/sumps/58/58sump.html

this is one of the more basic ones but he has tons of ideas and photos on his site