harryggumb
Aquarium Advice Freak
I know that it is recommended to have a sump on SW tank but is it necessary? and if so what is the minimum tank size where it is absolutely necessary to have one?
I have a canister and HOB protein skimmer not to mention heater in the tank. In my situation a sump is not an option but really wish I could have one. Looking into another setup in the future there is no other choice than having a sump.
Can you do it without? Sure can.
Is it the best option. Absolutely!!
I was looking into a canister. I think that might be my best option
This could be like a ford vs. Chevy discussion. I have eheim's on my freshwater and a fluval on saltwater and both do what they are supposed to. Many others out there including Sun-Sun that might be a less expensive option. I did find that the fluval with media baskets is easier to service than the eheim's 2215 that do not have baskets
My water is crystal clear with both brands. Much depends on tank size and your bio load.
The answer is the biggest you can have. The more water added to the system helps dilute any possible issues. Along with that, it gives you room to add any equipment to your system without it being in the display tank...skimmer, algae turf scrubber, reactors, heater...you get the idea.
They only go down in the third section, which would be where you would put an automatic top off if you were to add one.