Refugium help

[inedukated]

I've had my 55gal tank for two years now, but I still don't seem to know too much about how everything works... I'm learning slowly!

 

I've had a Hair Algae problem for almost a year now. I keep scrubbing rocks, cleaning out the tank, doing water changes... I can clean it DOWN for a few days/weeks, but it keeps coming back. Using RO/DI for water changes, nitrate is 0, phosphate is under .1 (don't have anything that measures less than that). I've decided it's time to build a refugium. I hear it is an excellent way to combat nuisance algae in the main tank by suffocating it.

 

I'm a college student... so money is an issue. Here's my question:

I have a 20Gal sump that just has a protein skimmer, heater, and return pump. I recently got an 2x18w PC light that is 13" and fits beautifully over the sump tank to make a refugium. What other supplies am I going to need? just some sand/mud and live rock? Should I try to get some critters for this tank? Are there any precautions I should take before setting this up?

 

Thanks

Ben

[Steve G]

I have a 20Gal sump that just has a protein skimmer, heater, and return pump. I recently got an 2x18w PC light that is 13" and fits beautifully over the sump tank to make a refugium. What other supplies am I going to need? just some sand/mud and live rock? Should I try to get some critters for this tank? Are there any precautions I should take before setting this up?

 

Thanks

Ben

 

Ben,

Sounds like you're on the right track. Generally people separate the sump tank into sections using glass or acrylic baffles, with one section dedicated to refugium. That allows your tank water to drain into one compartment that is not filled with sand, the water is skimmed and flows over another compartment that houses the fuge (has sand), and finaly into a separate compartment that houses the return pump, so the return pump doesn't have to sit in the fuge.

 

I used glass that I got bought at Lowe's. I just measured very carefully and got them to cut it for me. Use silicone to attach the baffles to the sump. You can use multiple baffles between compartments if you want a bubble trap (to keep bubbles from going back into your display). Good luck.

[YBeNormal]

Ben,

 

Take a look at this site. It covers everything from a basic description of a sump to DIY plans for building one. Post back here if you still have questions.

 

Bob