Large DIY sump/refugium

[JoeW]

Any suggestions for an inexpensive tub or other container, preferably rectangular, that can be drilled and used as a large (150-200 gal) sump/refugium?

[trmiv]

Rubbermaid stock tanks seem to be the way to go.

[Achilles1882]

By far I agree with trmiv, the rubbermaid stock tanks are great, relatively inexpensive and already ready to be plumbed. I got a 100 gallon one from the area tractor supply depot for less than $75.

[billpa]

ditto...wish they made a smaller version that I could fit under my stand...but last time I checked, there wasn't a demand for miniature cattle feeders

[bergzy]

if you are really, really lucky...

you can find used acrylic tanks in scratched up condition for a pretty good price.

i picked up a 100g tank that i drilled for a sump for $100...i think


and a 40g used tank with baffle in place already for a perfect refugium set up that utilizes high flow in an alternating and turbulent current. bulk heads included...all for $50 or so.

of course, i could have used a huge part of the unused sump for a refugium...but i was too lazy to do it. sometimes, the cost benefit ratio just isnt there!

actually, i use the empty part of the sump to store unused live rock and a bubble barrier. my sump doesnt have any baffles...too lazy to put those in too!

[bergzy]

yeah, it's a little messy!

BUT...

i dont have to worry about flooding the place let alone spilling anything. i mix my kalk etc with basic wreckless abandon...spilling powder on the garage floor etc. because it's...the garage! it holds cars and your junk you hardly use!

those perfect set ups are nice to look at, but man, to keep everything tidy etc. i had a room mate like that...our apt had to be immaculate! two college guys going to grad school and he wants the place to look like a magazine cover! it drove me up the wall!!!!!!

no thanks, i'd rather be lookin' at my reef and/or reading up on rc!