I have read a few posts that say the flow through a sump with an in-sump skimmer should only be 2-3x tank volume. Why is this? I can see if you have a direct feed into the skimmer that the flow would matter but if the skimmer has its own pump that is properly sized why would it matter? Any insight will be appreciated.
Why does flow though sump affect skimmer function?
- Thread starter ksp75
- Start date
twon8
Formally registered membe
optimally your overflow is skimming the surface and thus the dirtiest water into your sump. if you have this water flowing back to your tank faster than your skimmer can process it.....
your skimmer won't get it all and it gets sent back to your display, thus hindering your skimming.
a return pump of 2000 gph with 6 feet of head will take a lot more energy and heat than a slower one. imo you should use high flow, low energy pumps for in tank flow, such as tunze's, seio's, closed loops, maxijets....
plus the higher gph return will be louder, both in sound of the pump and water falling
your skimmer won't get it all and it gets sent back to your display, thus hindering your skimming.
a return pump of 2000 gph with 6 feet of head will take a lot more energy and heat than a slower one. imo you should use high flow, low energy pumps for in tank flow, such as tunze's, seio's, closed loops, maxijets....
plus the higher gph return will be louder, both in sound of the pump and water falling
I will have about 400gph running when I finish the new setup. 20 gallon display and 20 gallon sump. Pretty much a redo of my exsiting setup but cut tank and added external overflow and drilled for 2 returns. CSS-65 in sump. Quiet One 3000 pump with SCWD. I have not built the sump yet but it will be a 20 as stated above. Will it help if I "T" the drain into the skimmer compartment and use a ball valve to slow the flow at this component? I really want to stay away from added powerheads etc. in the display as realestate is limited and they don't look like they belong in a reef.
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