Whats a sump, A simple sump

[Mr.Maska]

I want to have a sump for my 55 gallon tank. I already have a protien skimmer for my tank. I dont want to drill any holes for a sump. I just want like 25 more gallons for my tank. Anyone have any ideas or blue print ideas ?
Thanks.

[JamesR]

It can be as simple as an overflow with a rubbermaid container under your tank and a pump to return the water back to the main tank. you could also put the skimmer in there for a "cleaner" look for your main.

[Mr.Maska]

how do i make a equal exchange with the water going up and the water going down to prevent a over flow

[alarmguy66]

Your pump in the sump will return a set amount to the tank every hour.

Your overflow will allow all water over a certain level to return to the sump, but there will always be a maximum amount the size of you piping will allow.

As long as your overflow is capable of returning more to your sump than your pump can return to the tank, you have no worries.

[Mr.Maska]

that was the answer i needed thanks that answers everything for me great!!!!