Help me star out right!!!!!!!

[The Gent]

I am starting out a 55 gallon reef.  I currently have nothing but the tank and stand.  It is not predrilled "Reef Ready", therefore I am interested in these priducts.  I think I am getting a 19 gallon sump, will know for sure in a coupe days, and want to know how to set it up from there.  I am thinking the 700 kit with a 500-600 gph pump in the sump.  No idea on powerheads in display etc.  And not sure if i should drill for a return?  Only thing I am for sure on is what lights I want. Help...

[superbuzz]

Welcome aboard.  As far as overflow and flow rates go, you are right at what I would suggest.  I would keep the flow toward the lower end, to control bubbles and excess turbulence in the sump.  A lower flow rate is quieter everywhere as well.  A single 3/4" return is sufficient, if you go through the glass keep it near the surface, to avoid excess drainback when the power goes out.  I actually prefer over the top for returns, as you can move them around easier.  Powerheads or closed loop is up to you, and depend on what you intend to keep.  If you will be keeping corals, especially sps, you will want a lot (>1000gph) total circulation in your tank.

[The Gent]

Well, I ended up with a 28 gallon sump that allegedly handles up to a 600 gph flow.  I will be pumping with a Mag Drive 7 with a ball valve on the return in case it needs to be dialed in.  I still think I am ok with the 700 kit overflow box, and will be ordering it shortly.  Aquaticlife 4 bulb with lunars will be my lighting set up (as well as JPJ light on refugium).  I am hoping too maintain coral at some point.  This is my first set up with a sump, and first set up period in over 15 years.  Trying to do my research and get it done right the first time.  I DO NOT LIKE LOSING FISH!

[The Gent]

Well i just picked up a 75 gallon with oak stand at a great price.  Hope my 28 gallon sump and 700 kit will be adequate for this aquarium instead of the 55 gallon.  Any thoughts?  The sump is rated at 600 gph.  Not sure how that works, because if you are drawing water out and back into the display tank, will it not fill up the sump at the same rate you are taking it out?  As long as the overflow can handle it? 

[superbuzz]

The 700 with a mag 7 will be fine.  The overflow, and therefore the tank and sump, will flow whatever the pump is delivering, up to the maximum flow rate of the overflow box.  You want your overflow to be rated at more than the return pump.  A low sump flow is preferable.  You will probably want additional flow in the tank from powerheads or a closed loop.

[The Gent]

OK, interesting.  I was going to get a pump right at or higher than the overflow (hence the mag 7).  My thinking that with the use of a ball valve in the return line I could dial it in to just the right return flow to maximize the overflow.  Im new, these things I need to know.  And now i am having a debate on lighting.  I want to get  a 8 bulb T5 Nova from Current and my friend at work says it will be too much for my 20" high tank, yet my research says it is preferred for corals and specifically refers to my tank size.  UGHH!  Didnt know you could have TOO much light, within reason.

[superbuzz]

Your overflow should be rated well above your pump, to avoid mopping the floor.  Ideally, for the sake of redundancy, your overflow should have double the capacity of your pump.  You can throttle back the flow on the discharge end of the pump without any problems.

[The Gent]

Well I just placed my order for the overflow box.  Now I am in the market for the right pump.  I was hooked on the mag 7 but I hear they may have heating issues.  Cant wait to get my box and get this build started.

[superbuzz]

eheim 1260

[The Gent]

TY.  Any and all suggestions will be appreciated and looked into.

[The Gent]

My refugium/sump arrived today and it is filled up in the laundry room checking for leaks...

[The Gent]

OK no leaks in the sump/refugium!  I see you shipped my overflow today, thank you.  I was just about to hit send on the purchase of a return kit, but I thought I would ask you first.  I was going to get the 3/4" with flare tip, do you see a problem with that?  I will be running either the epheim 1260 or mag 7 for a return pump.

[superbuzz]

a single 3/4 return would be fine for either of those pumps

[The Gent]

Great, placing order now.  Wish I would of made up my mind so you could of shipped them together.  My apologies.

Great just my luck, you are closed for a week and a half starting tomorrow.  I hope you can get it out tomorrow, this build has been delayed enough.

[The Gent]

Received the 700 kit today.  Just got back from Lowe's where I bought the plumbing.  Now sitting down for a break and eating my fun dip and sour licorice.