Help with sump setup

[MBVette]

Im working on setting up a 225g reef tank. So far this is what I think I want

225g (72x24x30)
MSX 250 skimmer

Now I need to figure out what size sump to get and what pump to use for the return. Any help with this would be really appreciated. I really do not know where to start for figuring this out.

I do not think I want to go with a refugium, I think just a sump would work fine. But if you think otherwise, I am open to listening.

 

[ZoaFan08]

Only thing I put in my sump is live rock and chaeto, sand gets too messy.

 

[rguyler]

Well, you will also see other equipment in a typical sump, such as denitrator, calcium reactor, etc. Filter socks are also a good idea to keep detritus out of the sump. You might have need to put probes of whatever variety, such as pH, temp or ORP. Don't forget baffles, which work very well to reduce/eliminate bubbles being pumped back up to the tank.

It also matters if you are planning on an under-stand sump or if this will be a remote unit. If you are packing it under the stand then that will generally be your limiting factor. If it's remote and space is no problem then consider using anywhere from 25-50% tank volume. I have a 150G display tank with a 75G sump. I also prefer things to be external, such as the skimmer but many like to keep them in the sump in case of leaks.

As for pumps, again start with where the sump will be and how much water you need to push. I have an external pump but many prefer submersible pumps.

As you can see, there are a lot of things going on in a well designed sump. Step one for you is to decide what you want to accomplish.

 

[MBVette]

the sump is going to have to be placed under the tank; as I have no more space for it.

I probably have from the floor to about 3' up before I start the stand for the tank itself. Give or take a little as I have not decided how low I will sit the tank (it will be in a day care center)

How do I figure out what size sump to put it and how much water will need to move?