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So the time to set up my tank is getting closer and closer and ive debated the idea of using two canister filters(1 just doesnt seem enough no matter how big imo) or using a sump.

I know nothing about sumps other than the water cycles through the main tank and the sump. I like the idea of being able to hide the equipment such as heaters in the sump tank. But my main concern has always been the overflows. I know theyre used to siphon the water and circulate it but other than that im pretty much lost. I never liked the idea of the overflow box, but while searching other forums i found the diy pipe overflow made from pvc pipping which looked fairly easy to make and cost effective.

I guess my question is, what do you guys think? Im hoping some people can expand my knowledge of the sump and if anyone has experience with the pipe overflow. I also need information on the pump(what size, good brands, best place to buy). Also was reading that with a big tank and a big pump that it might be best to use two overflows, is this correct?

Added questions: What size sump is recomended, would rather make my own then buy an overpriced one. What type of media?

So its the easy setup pita to clean cannister VS. the pita to setup, easy to clean sump. Lets hear your thoughts.

You can run a 125 gallon tank with either canister filters or a sump. It is a matter of personal choice. Supreme mag pumps are the best for sumps. If you decide to go that route, I have many sizes available at good prices. Will ship. Size of pump depends on flow rate desired in relationship to overflow.

All the tanks I have connected to sumps use 1 overflow,2 use boxes(megaflow) and 2 are just drilled.you want to size your pump to return water at about 1/2-3/4 the rate your overflows are rated for,for safety.
plastic sink scrubbies from the dollar store(6-10 in a bag) are one of the most commonly used media.
http://thumb7.shutterstock.com.edgesuit ... 189490.jpg
I have 1 sump with them and one with chunks of pad that are waste from a local factory that die cuts industrial floor polisher pads.
Both work fine.Sump should be about 1/4 the volume of the tank.Remember when designing the overflow and sump to be sure if the power goes out,theres enough extra volume in the sump to prevent a flood.

Don't forget about HOB filters. They are more than adequate to run a 125. IMHO

True that,my 3rd 125g has 2 emperor 400s and an aquaclear 110 and its plenty.

I would go with sump as bio ,canister as mech and HOB for polishing but thats me

I dont care what size tank. I run sponges. Never had issues.

haha thanks for all the replies.

I think ive decided to build my own pvc overflows. Like here http://www.aquariumlife.net/projects/di ... ow/120.asp

I wanted something easy to fit behind my background and i think this will work good. I bought 3/4" pvc and im going to make 2 overflows on each side.

The sump will come later, ill look for a tank but i might just got for a storage bin.

for my 29 gall i will be making http://www.monsterfishkeepers.com/forum ... hp?t=15733