Ive got a new 120 gal(4x2x2) with 2 O's that I just upgraded to. Im running two aquaclear 100s. Im thinking i might need to upgrade filters soon because my fish arent full grown yet. My work schedule keeps me away for days at a time sometimes, so excellent filtration is a must. Any recommendations? How about a website with easy DIY sump instructions. My tank isnt drilled and im not going to drill it. Is a sump still possible then?

Sump is still possible but probably not worth it - you need an overflow box.

The problem is that they are generally expensive to buy (large ones anyway which you will need), are bulky and unsightly. They are also reasonably difficult to make, especially as there is a risk that, if not done correctly and there is a power outage, your sump may overflow (or your display if it doesnt self-start syphon).

For a sump you really want your tank drilled...well worth it though...

a drilled tank is definetly not required to have a sump filter. overflows are easy to make and quite inexpensive. all that is required for an overflow is some pvc pipping and some glue. there is a design for diy overflows in the diy section of the forum and the system works flawlessly. i have been using it for over 2 years now and have yet to have any problems with it.

the only question would be is it worth it to make a sump for a 120 gallon tank. there are many different types of cannister filter that are available for mid size tanks for a reasonable price but if you are set on a sump filter like i said there are plan for both a sump and overflow i the diy section of the forum.


did some digging around and found the link to the overflow for you


www.oscarfishlover.com/oscar-fish-advice.../11687-diy-overflows


hope this helps

Thats a great looking design. Thanks for the link. It does away with skimmers and overflow boxes hanging all over the place right? Just mount the intake high enough so that if power goes out, it will start sucking air soon through the intake right? And leave enough room in the sump to accomodate that minute or two of siphoning while the pump was out right?

Im gonna have to upgrade filters soon anyway to accomodate 2 growing oscars in a 120 gal. Currently running 2 aquaclear 100s. Works pretty good. Just have lots of water changes to keep up with. I was looking at the fx5, but i can build a sump and overflow for nothing. Would you go with a sump and aquaclears, or fx5 and aquaclears?

personally i use both the setups you have mentioned. and fx5 and an aquaclear 110 on my 180 and a sump and ac 110 on my 220. both do the job fabulously and i have no complaints with either. ultimetly the decision is your on which way to go. but if you have the parts necessary to build the sump and the motivation to do it i would go with a sump. they are by far the best for biological fitration and if you use a 110 for mechanical then you will have all your bases covered.

Rock on man!! Now what about pvc glue in the tank? Just let it cure and it will be fine, or is there another pvc fastener out there?

since pvc pipping is used for potable water for human consuption i think the glue will dry and pose no threats to your fish. as i mentioned i have used it for a couple of years and have had no problems at all.

so ive been experimenting with a scaled down version of your overflow. What a cool concept. learned alot by playing with the position of the tee and the length and height of the overflow. air check valve is not necessary though. cant wait to get started on new sump. Got some really good ideas.