I just got a new 40b tank with a sump but I can't fit my Red Sea Berlin skimmer in the sump. I was using it as a HOB skimmer on my last tank...so should I just make it a HOB on the sump and stick the pump in either the drain section or return section?
There is a bubble tower section and I think that if I remove that I can stick the skimmer in the return section (where the bubble tower is).
I am also looking for suggestions for a return pump for this setup just going straight from the sump to the top of the display, but have never had to figure out what pump I should get.
Second issue is lighting. I am still debating on T5 or MH light, budget is a factor. I have read that some people go for a 24-30" T5 4-5bulb setup instead of a 36" fixture. Doesn't this create dark spots on the sides, and would one MH bulb do the same thing? I am looking to keep mainly softies and LPS but will have a couple pieces of SPS at the top.
Final question is if I have sand in my refugium area in my sump, should I have the whole system going when the tank goes through its cycle, or would I be ok not having a return pump for a while and just have both tanks cycle separately, and connect when I get a pump?
There is a bubble tower section and I think that if I remove that I can stick the skimmer in the return section (where the bubble tower is).
I am also looking for suggestions for a return pump for this setup just going straight from the sump to the top of the display, but have never had to figure out what pump I should get.
Second issue is lighting. I am still debating on T5 or MH light, budget is a factor. I have read that some people go for a 24-30" T5 4-5bulb setup instead of a 36" fixture. Doesn't this create dark spots on the sides, and would one MH bulb do the same thing? I am looking to keep mainly softies and LPS but will have a couple pieces of SPS at the top.
Final question is if I have sand in my refugium area in my sump, should I have the whole system going when the tank goes through its cycle, or would I be ok not having a return pump for a while and just have both tanks cycle separately, and connect when I get a pump?