Just a quick question before I head to the store tomorrow. Is a 10 gallon sump good enough for a 55 gallon tank?

Happy new year everyone.

It will do but the bigger you can make your sump the better off you will be. Squeeze as much sump in as you can, you will always be wanting to add something to it.

I think if I was you and had the room I would go bigger. You are only going to have it filled about 1/2 -2/3 of the way when the tank is running in order to avoid overflowing. A 10 gallon tank will give you the room needed in order to hide your return and heater and, depending on the footprint, your skimmer.

BadOleRoss,

:welcome: to TR. Thanks for jumping right in.

BadOleRoss, Welcome.. :)

and i agree with both, you want to make sure you go as big as you can..

the important thing noted by Carmie is that in a 10 gallon tank you will likely only get to use 3-7 gallons (depending on your return catch amount)

I tried to use a 10gal for a sump on my 55 the only problem is it wouldn’t fit under the stand! You have to add 1/4” for the black plastic supports. Just check the return policy before buying it.

The only thing keeping me from getting the 20 gallon is the space issue. My 55 gallon stand is only about 11" wide. I should probably just build something and let it overhang...

Keep in mind you don't have to use another tank.... you could find some other type of container that holds more gallons but is shaped to fit in the space you have. Just make sure it's durable... test it out first. Someone on here uses an old recycling container for part of his sump.

Keep in mind you don't have to use another tank.... you could find some other type of container that holds more gallons but is shaped to fit in the space you have. Just make sure it's durable... test it out first. Someone on here uses an old recycling container for part of his sump.
great point..
menu people have used rubbermaid tubs, or storage bins as a sump, as long as you get the right one, they are food safe and waterproof.. :)

as far as different containers goes what about an old reptile cage? pretty sure it's waterproof. also, the sump doesn't go in the actual tank does it. Finally got a tank today, 55 gal. for around $58. on sale at superpetz

The sump doesn't go in the tank but the tank water goes into the sump. IDK if some reptile disease, etc could affect your fish or not.

Most critter type glass cages are not built with the same glass and such as a true fish tank. I'd be concerned with thinner, or possibly blemished (weak) glass and questionable silicone jobs (also what kind of silicone was used?)

Dave

thanks, i didn't think that would work, but why not ask.

thanks, i didn't think that would work, but why not ask.

Agreed. Our hobby wouldn't be where it is today if a few, well educated/experienced people didn't push the limits once in a while.

Dave