Dual Sumps

[coralfragger101]

OK - I did it the easy way this time (DUH).

To change the flow I only messed with one valve so it was easy to get back to where I was originally.

CONCLUSION: Common sense does dictates that kcress was correct. I must have mixed up the pictures.

Since my dart was running wide open I simply marked the water level in the sumps. I choked the dart back which restricted flow to the entire system (ran LESS water through the 3" pipe). The water level in the sumps rose higher and came closer together - as expected. Setting it back was easy enough - I just opened the dart wide open again and we are back to normal.

 

[dave_gray2077]

I have a split design RENA tank and am thinking of making a similar setup. Im currently seeing if i have the money to go marine.

I went though some possible solutions such a 2 sumps (both connected and totally solo with separate overflow and returns).

Iv came to the conclusion that it will be far easier to just block the gap with some frosted glass/wood and leave it at that. Then just add a single conventional sump.

Pro's

Minimises plumbing that can leak/go wrong.

Dual unconnected sumps require 2 pumps (cost/power usage)
Less power consumption in single sump mode

2 solo tanks don't have much room for baffles if you are using a skimmer in one. That less area to get rid of micro bubbles etc.

 

[coralfragger101]

WOAH - You wouldn't want 2 solo sumps with their own return pumps anyway. Not if they return to the same display tank. There is no way in heck that they would drain in the exact proportions that each pump is putting into the display tank. End result - A FLOOD.

BTW: I "think" I have figured out a way to actually measure how much flow is going through my 3" connecting pipe. Update later today.

 

[kcress]

coralfragger101; Thanks for restoring physics. LOL

 

[Kannin]

If you elevate sump A... you'll need to ensure that there is adequate space in sump B for tank runoff, should there be a power failure.

Also...make sure your return chamber is of good size. This is where your evap will show up. In my first home made sump... my chamber would not accomodate more than 12 hours of operation without blowing bubbles.

 

[coralfragger101]

Use an ATO and you can get away with a smaller return pump section as it will keep the water level constant. An ATO is also a good idea in order to keep the SG constant as well.