Sump/Refugium opinions needed

[reepks]

A couple years ago I decided that I needed to update my filtration systems on both of my saltwater tanks. I was using tetra tec power filters. Being somewhat new to the hobby at the time, I wanted a system that was pretty simple and all inclusive. My children were rather young at the time and I wanted to make sure whatever system I went with was covered so that I did not find matchbox cars or Barbie's in my filter. :lol: They are now old enough to realize that messing with Mom's tanks is a VERY bad idea!

Like a dummy, I chose to go with the Tom Pro PS4's. I bought 3 of them. If I had only known then what I know now!

Now, a couple years and many headaches later, I am thinking that It is time for a change!!!!! I would like to put in a sump/refugium system. What I am wondering is....would it be best to modify the Tom Pro systems and incorporate them into the sump/refugium or just buy a complete sump system?

I think for me to modify my current filtration I would need to buy a tank, cut one of the sides out of the Tom Pro, move the return pump, install baffles, buy a new skimmer, and possibly get a new pre-filter.

The Tom Pro's use a aqua lifter on the pre-filter...I know I have heard several people that say they love this thing.....but I have had more problems with them getting clogged or not starting back up after a power failure. I have even purchased a pre-filter for the aqua lifter. It did help but they still have issues. Is there a way around using them or are they pretty standard for pre-filters? (sorry for the dumb questions but I really haven't had any exposure to any other wet/dry's other than the Tom pro's)

The Tom Pro's uses built in, air driven protein skimmers. These things are hardly effective. They only seem to work when they feel like it. I would much rather go with venturi.

I would hate to spend a ton of time and money modifying these only to find out that I'm still stuck with a piece of crap filter. (either way it looks like I will be spending a few hundred dollars to upgrade each filter)

Any thoughts, better ideas, or words of wisdom????

 

[pimpinitup6969]

I would start fresh

 

[reepks]

I posted this question in the main forum as well...I apologize if you end up reading this twice.


Pimpinitup6969....what about the aqua lifter....is that something that most pre-filters use or are their other options?
not long after I posted the original question I went and did water changes on my tanks...and once again, one of the aqua lifters will not start back up. I'm getting tired of tearing these things apart all the time.

 

[nwrogers]

Well the best thing is to have a reef ready tank and to use an old tank as a sump. The next best thing is to drill the tank and use one of these...

http://www.glassoverflow.com

Either way you can use an old tank or acrylic sump to put the skimmer, heaters, and other things in. I am not a big fan of refugiums but some people like them. Anyway sell the Tom Pro PS4's on ebay or wherever and put the past behind you. There is no point in busting them up when you can sell them for what you can get and use the cash to buy a new skimmer and a used tank. Good luck!