Do i need a sump?

[sumpfinfishe]

DBD wrote:

1.do i need one (if its not broke dont fix it)
2.cost can you make /buy one for low cost
3.will it help keep the tank cooler in the hotter months
4.can you just add one to a set up tank with no risk
5.what should i put in it algae,ls,nothing
thanks for ansering any of these questions.
5 1/2.any idea of the cost involved.

1. A sump is an addition, it will help clean up unwanted equipment from your main tank, gives you options to cool water and add additives or perform less stressful water changes.
2. You can build or buy a low cost hang-on overflow which will allow you to upgrade to a sump with minimal risk/cost-no drilling of your main tank.
3.If heat is a problem now, then yes it could help lower the temperature although you will need to top-up more often due to the evaporation from using a fan to cool the surface of the water in the sump.
4.see #2
5.A heater, skimmer, probes and pumps is all I would put in the sump, a sump is a sump and not a refugium
5 1/2.Cost I'm guessing would run at about a $100-$150 total or less if you buy a good return pump such as a mag 3-5, as for the overflow box and plumbing, I'm sure Jack at Ocean Aquatics could slap something together out of some plexi. The sump you could pay $10 bucks for a food safe rubbermaid tub or a 5-10gl glass tank.