diy inline modules

[kruegs35]

I was wondering if anyone has made their own modular filter system, similiar to the lifegard filter system. I want to get all of my equipment off the back of my tank, but I don't have a lot of room for a sump. I was thinking building a couple modules, a mechanical filter, thermometer, and a skimmer. I drew up a rough sketch and it doesn't seem all that difficult. Although I already have a idea of what to do, I would like to compare with someone that has already done it and maybe can offer some advice.

 

[shelburn61]

Planning to use RO filter canisters?

 

[Alarmguy66]

I use a very simple one made of 4"PVC. Water comes in at the top, goes through some eggcrate that has filter floss sitting on it, then comes out the bottom and into the sump. It also has a very simple overflow in case the floss clogs and water cant flow down. It also has a second, lower chamber that I can put carbon in if I need to.

 

[kruegs35]

I was going to make it out of PVC. For the mechanical filter, I was going to use the same setup as the lifegard. The water would flow into the bottom through a some sort of sponge or pleaded filter covering a smaller pipe running up the middle of the inside. (does that make any sense?). Any recommendations on a pump size. The pump would have to pump up to the tank, maybe 4 ft max.