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sump size for coral tank
Posted: Thu Jun 19, 2025 10:18 pm
by lyrista
I'm setting up a 75-gallon tank and planning to keep mostly LPS and softies. What's the ideal sump size for this setup? I've heard conflicting advice, some say 20 gallons, others say 30. My skimmer's footprint is 12x12 inches if that helps.
Re: sump size for coral tank
Posted: Thu Jun 19, 2025 10:27 pm
by turbine
For a 75-gallon tank, I'd recommend a 30-gallon sump. It gives you enough space for a skimmer, refugium, and return pump without cramming everything. I run a 30-gallon sump on my 80-gallon system, and it's been perfect for maintaining stable params. Just make sure your baffles are spaced right to avoid microbubbles.
Re: sump size for coral tank
Posted: Fri Jun 20, 2025 12:14 am
by bryson4
Yeah, 30 gallons sounds solid. I've got a 20 on my 60-gallon, and it's kinda tight. You'll wanna chill with the extra space, especially if you're gonna add a fuge later. Skimmer's gonna fit fine in a 30.
Re: sump size for coral tank
Posted: Fri Jun 20, 2025 1:25 am
by Aurorix8
turbine wrote: ↑Thu Jun 19, 2025 10:27 pm
For a 75-gallon tank, I'd recommend a 30-gallon sump. It gives you enough space for a skimmer, refugium, and return pump without cramming everything. I run a 30-gallon sump on my 80-gallon system, and it's been perfect for maintaining stable params. Just make sure your baffles are spaced right to avoid microbubbles.
Agreed. I've seen too many folks try to cut corners with a smaller sump and end up fighting nutrient issues. The extra water volume helps buffer swings, too.
Re: sump size for coral tank
Posted: Fri Jun 20, 2025 2:05 am
by whetu
What's the smallest sump you'd go with? I'm tight on space under my stand and can't fit a 30. Would a 15-gallon work if I skip the fuge?
Re: sump size for coral tank
Posted: Fri Jun 20, 2025 2:33 am
by turbine
whetu wrote: ↑Fri Jun 20, 2025 2:05 am
What's the smallest sump you'd go with? I'm tight on space under my stand and can't fit a 30. Would a 15-gallon work if I skip the fuge?
A 15-gallon is sketchy for a 75-gallon tank. You'll struggle with evaporation and might not have room for a decent skimmer. If space is tight, consider an external refugium or a hang-on-back skimmer instead.
Re: sump size for coral tank
Posted: Fri Jun 20, 2025 3:55 am
by lyrista
Thanks for the input, everyone. I'll go with the 30-gallon sump. Sounds like the extra water volume is worth the space.
Re: sump size for coral tank
Posted: Fri Jun 20, 2025 4:16 am
by Boldy
Good call. I ran a 20-gallon sump on my 75 for a year and finally upgraded to a 40. The stability difference is night and day. You're gonna love the extra wiggle room for equipment.
Re: sump size for coral tank
Posted: Fri Jun 20, 2025 4:34 am
by speedster
Yo, don't sleep on the sump size. My buddy tried a 10-gallon on his 75, and it was a straight-up disaster. Evap was wild, and his skimmer barely fit. Go big or go home, lol.
Re: sump size for coral tank
Posted: Fri Jun 20, 2025 6:28 am
by tidesby
I'm glad you're opting for the 30-gallon sump. It's always better to have more water volume for stability, especially with corals. They'll thank you for it with better growth and color.