Need opinions on this sump set up Please

[Doug]

Marcie,
As Brad mentioned, if your comfortable with the sump you mentioned, then go for it. It would not be for many of us, but that does not make it no good. That looks like a Coralife skimmer which many of have used. Not high end but still work. I would still watch what hang on overflow I purchased. Many threads on RC about problems with some of them. Others, like the Lifereef or similar have a good reputation.

Having no experience with that type of sump set up, its hard to comment on how well its designed and will work.

However, I do like the idea of dealing local, in case of problems. Albert may be a good one to get a hold of. Drilling is easily done, if thats the route you chose. Have to check for tempered glass though. I see your $400 budget plan. Its hard to get a decent skimmer for to much less than that, unless you can find a good used one on here.

Many of us use Rubbermaid sumps, which are cheap. Lots of threads here on drilling & overflows & piping. Have a look in the library or put them in a search.