Setting up a sump on an existing tank

[fishgate]

When setting up a sump for the first time on an established tank that has never had a sump, should you let it run empty for awhile to break it in and get it going before adding new live rock and substrate? What about adding algae and pods?

 

[tkeracer619]

Cure live rock outside the tank and add it when its ready.

It is fine for the sump to go empty. One of my 360g systems has no live rock in the sump. Just a skimmer and ATO.

 

[INCEPTION7]

I would add live rock in small increments as to allow time for each piece to cure. Otherwise cure it outside of the tank. Adding macro and substrate should have little effect on the tank.