how does this sump work

does the overflow(filter thing) bring water back into the sump when you turn the return on?

if so just add more water the sump. most sumps are too high when not on.

 

does the pump have some kind of control valve so u can dial it down also r u getting the filter thing(aka overflow box) started before u turn on the pump and did u add more salt water to the sump because u will have to

 

yea it does. but it but it can be at the very top and still the pump will suck to much water out of the sump.

 

does the pump have some kind of control valve so u can dial it down also r u getting the filter thing(aka overflow box) started before u turn on the pump and did u add more salt water to the sump because u will have to

 

You need a ball valve to attach to the return line. Use it to limit the flow going back to the tank, down to the point where that somewhat cleverly improvised overflow box can handle.

As for the sump itself:


I don't know if I like this configuration. The BioBalls need a decent amount of maintenance, or a filter sock in front of them, to keep from being nitrate factories.

The overflow box needs to be primed with a piece of airline tubing stuck up the U, and suck the air out.

Before you do that, does the overflow box have another box on the inside of the tank? If it doesn't, I would avoid using it until you either make one or get a different overflow box. You'll get flooding otherwise.

 

nope no flow control on the pump.

 

filter sock?

 

It's a fine mesh sock used to capture particulates before it gets into the bioballs.

 

it doesn't over flow/fill the display tank does it.

I assume you understand the overflow works by having the display's tank water level to a certain level so that water flow's down it.

 

A ball valve on the return line is all that you need.