Pumps (return and skimmer) for new tank setup

[Jahjehwa]

I recently bought a used setup with some dry rock and sump, (sealife pro wet/dry with skimmer). However the setup did not come with any pumps. I have been looking at the rio pumps. What size of venturi pump do I need for the skimmer in the sump? and how many gph for my return pump? The tank is a 55 gallon oceanic drilled with an overflow box with 1 inch tube down to the sump. I was going to install a 400gph powerhead for circulation on the opposite side of return flow pointing down at reef for current. I just want to set things up correctly and get water cycling started. My sister in law is giving me a piece of live rock to start bacteria. Any advice would help tons.

 

[banthonyb71]

How large is the sump? Need to know your total system volume. multiply it by the turnover rate you want +gph pump. so if your system was 70 total gallons and you wanted a rate of return of ten then 700gph return pump.

 

[scooter31707]

I like to do 3-5x turnover through the sump and at least 20x turnover inside the tank. Depending on your budget you could get a Gyre or 2 Jebao RW-8s (cheaper) and should be ok.

 

[Jahjehwa]

Sump is acrylic, seems to be about 5 or so gallons. I haven't filled it up yet. Uses bio ball trickle and first area has the skimmer. So if I do 400to 600 gph for return from sump and 2 wave makers with 400gph in tank?

Then that just leaves the pump size for the skimmer.