Water Circulation Question

[quietreef]

Hi there:

I'm in the process of setting up my first reef tank. I've read everything I can find on the subject, but I still have some questions. I've never posted here before, but I've read many of the articles, so perhaps someone here can make some suggestions.

I plan on approx. 100G display with 2 upstream refugiums of 30G each. For the sake of discussion, let's say I turn over the Ref water 3x/h. So X 2 that's about 200G. Now if I understand correctly, the display is supposed to have 15 or 20X water turnover at least? That's between 1500 and 2000G. Let's say 1500/h. My question is, can I run that much through my sump?, through the skimmer(s), baffles, other parts, and return, and do all my movement in the tank from the return outlet which will be T'd off with other gadgets? Or should I be running some of that through the sump, and some of it in a circle around and back into the display (not going through the sump)? Is there a right or wrong answer to this or is it a question of taste. $$ is not a concern, although I don't typically throw it away. I also have 2 DIY gurus who will build whatever I want, provided I can *decide* what I want.

I'd also like to know if there is someone experienced here who I could email off the forum so I don't have to clutter your board with a lot of stupid questions.

Thanks to anyone who replies,
QuietReef in Calgary

 

[Anonymous]

Hi quitereef, and :welcome:

It sounds like you are doing a good job of reading up and planning out your first reef.

I like the two up stream refugiums.

One thing to consider is that all of your flow does not have to go through your sump. Powerheads mounted in the tank count just as much as the flow through the sump. You need to present your water to the skimmer, which is located in the sump. 5X turnover though the sump is probably enough to facilitate ample protein skimming.

Now I am not saying that it is bad to put 15 or 20 X though your sump. It's just that it is not necessary.

I would look into a Tunze Stream pump to put in your tank for flow.

Louey

 

[ChrisRD]

I agree with Louey, you can put as much flow through your sump as you want, but it's not necessary and may not always be the best option with all things considered (noise, microbubbles, energy efficiency, etc.). Keep in mind, if it's a predrilled tank, you'll be limited as to how much flow you can get through the sump by the overflow/drain capacity.

 

[quietreef]

Thank you for answering the question. I read the link you suggest and I agree. There is a lot of conflicting information out there. I have visited other reef forums, but I have the impression that this one is more serious than others I have seen.

Thanks, and now I'll return to my pencil and paper and eraser.