It’s been a very busy week, but I took some time off and was able to make some big progress on this project.
The stand is DONE! Well…I still need to add trim and such, but that’s a project for after the tank setup is done. See below:
Click “Continue Reading” below for details and info on the sump.
The cabinet is on, as well as the new bracing. I still need to add some doors to the front, but I want to get the sump installed and the plumbing all set before I tackle that.
Now, it’s time for plumbing and the sump. This is a fun part of the project. The sump is fantastic and HUGE. It barely fits in the stand. I’m glad I did some measuring beforehand. This is partly plumbing and partly restoring. I wish I could get more of the “gunk” off the sump, but I’d scratch it up if I tried. Fortunately, no one will see it.
I decided to add some “leveling foam” under the aquarium. It’s debatable whether or not this is necessary. Contrary to the name, it does not level the tank. It does help cover any bumps or low spots. They say the aquarium will take several weeks to fully settle into the foam. See below:
The drain line distribution plate that goes over the drip trays is shown below:
Before:
After:
I’m separating the inputs and adding a manifold that will mix and distribute the water. The original 1″ manifold is probably sufficient, but I will move a bit more water in the new setup. You’re supposed to cycle the water in the tank 8 – 10 times an hour. Math: 225 x 10 = 2250 (yes, I did that in my head:)
The previous owners had good luck putting some live/base rock directly under and input in lieu of bio-balls. I’m going to take their advice and do the same. I will also add bio-balls and a Media Block to try and get some anaerobic bacteria going. I’m worried about whether or not I can keep nitrates low w/o it. I’ll put that in the back corner of the sump, where the slowest water flow happens. Fingers crossed…
The sump:
The sump installed:
