Will this sump work?

[dhmx220]

I was planning on using a 15 gallon long for a sump for my 29 gallon. However I found out the 15 gallon wont fit under my stand. I have a spare 10 gallon and was considering using it. Would a 10 gallon sump work efficiently? Is it going to be enough filtration? How bad will the evaporation be?
Thanks

 

[kzoo]

10 gall should be fine, as long as it will fit your skimmer. The evap rate would be the same if it is 10 or 15 gall.

 

[j_b_]

Yes, you should be able to use a 10-gal for your sump. Using on-line calculators, and worst case scenario (water level 2" above overflow)</em>, you'll need your sump to hold 3.1 gallons, which will drain from your display tank into your sump during a power failure of the pump.

• Tank Length = 30 inches
• Tank Width = 12 inches
• Height of Water above Overflow = 2 inches
• Flow through sump = 290 gph (10x turnover...QuietOne 1200 is perfect for this BTW)</em>

• Sump Volume need to handle tank overflow = 3.1 Gallons
• Recommended Minimum Volume for sump = 6 Gallons

I poured a little over 3-gals into my 10-gal tank and measured from the top to the water level, which was about 7 inches. Knowing this, I'd play it safe and plan your baffles for a maximum height of 6 inches. You'll likely only have room for a return area, bubble trap and an area for your skimmer.

I've only built one DIY sump, so someone please correct me if this is wrong.