SUMP Problems

[figdish]

I am fairly new to this hobby and recently added a sump to my 60gal. i have an overflow box and a 9.5mag return pump. i put valves on both and have the return turned down real low as the return side of sump keeps drying up. I have to add water at least once every 24 hours so it doesn't dry out and burn my motor. Can anyone advise what I am doing wrong, would appreciate all the help I can get, cheers

[hfp75]

I have a 55 and a 10g sump. Both have an open top and I need to add about a gallon every day - its the evaporation. Enjoy, you could get an ATO / osmolator.

We all have the same problem.

On a bright note, you have a good source of humidity for your house!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[kien]

Originally Posted by hfp75

I have a 55 and a 10g sump. Both have an open top and I need to add about a gallon every day - its the evaporation. Enjoy, you could get an ATO / osmolator.

We all have the same problem.

On a bright note, you have a good source of humidity for your house!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

+1. The smaller your return section is in your sump the quicker it will dry up as a result of whole tank evaporation. Definitely get an auto top off system in place or you will go mad trying to keep up with evaporation.

[lockrookie]

This is why I set my sump return to hold enough water for 5-6 days


Sent from my porcelain aquarium

[ktsalt]

Also, it could be that your sump doesn't hold enough water for more than 1 day of evaporation. I have a 90g tank and my sump is a 50g, I go about 2 to 3 days before topping 2g of water. But it keeps me involved with my tank, cleaniing the glass and adding chemicals. All part of the fun!

[subman]

I think an ato (auto top off) system is one of the most valuable components for a reef aquarium. It keeps the salinity stable.
Ohh and I add about 2.5gal a day to my 225

[Caine]

Have you considered covers for the sump and tank or is this even with covers?

[subman]

I hate covers lol but they do help with evaporation but also reduce o2 content.

[Caine]

I don't like covers either :P They just aren't as sexy as topless, but they do help a lot with evap.

[jagermaier]

Yes, an ATO is a great investment. It not only keeps your salinity stable but also keeps your protein skimmer functioning at the proper levels.