Sump build with or without baffles

[jimmysix]

So I'm upgrading to a 80g with 40g breeder for sump and wondering
If anyone elso doesn't use baffles in their sump! I'm debating on not
Using baffles in my new build but I will have it in order left to right
Sock-skimmer-fuge-return might just put eggcrate between fuge and
Return! I have an ATO so water lever won't fluctuate much at all
Any input would help let me know what you guys think!
Thanks

 

[foreveralone]

Even though you have an ATO keeping your water level good you will have a more consistent level by having a bubble trap separating your skimmer from the rest of the sump. The egg crate wall between the fuge and return may work depending on what you plan on keeping in your fuge.

 

[jimmysix]

I'm planning on only a few rocks and some macro

 

[ca1ore]

With baffles is preferred, for lots of reasons. Without baffles, each 'fill' from your
ATO will be about 3 times larger than with them. Salinity swings therefore bigger. Micro bubbles will be more of a problem also. It can be done. I run a 30 gallon QT as a full reef tank with a baffle-less 10 gal sump, but it is not ideal.

 

[mkj]

+1 Ca1ore.

Yes you don't need them but sump will work better with them.

 

[jimmysix]

Thx I have a 14g sump under my 55 right now I have a baffle in it guess ill
Do a little research and see what size baffles I should use

 

[Hodge1995]

I would definatly use baffles

 

[jimmysix]

Anybody have a good design for a 40g breeder?

 

[mkj]

basic sump is a two chamber. One for your aquarium drain, skimmer and heater. a bubble trap as baffle and second chamber for return pump.

If you want more than that then add room for a sock (I hate socks) and a third chamber for refugium.

If you want to be creative, make room for an Algae Scrubber (recommended) and leave out the Sock chamber and Refugium. This way no sock or water changes needed. The Algae Scrubber does that work instead, saves you time.