Sump input & stupid question

So I have two questions, kind of three.

First, I am doing my first sump (DIY) and built evertyhing, bought everything except plumbing. My question is, the tube coming in the sump from my over flow. Do I put the tube under the waterline in the sump or above probably causing noise? I wasn't sure about this part since some people like to splash the input water on bio balls but I won't be using those.

Second question and probably extremely stupid. I have a shelf unit that was in my cabinet but obviously the sump is now taking that space. It fits almost perfectly above the sump as a cover. It's a wood material so I guess my question is will I need to coat it with something so it doesn't erode from the moisture?

And kind of third, if I don't cover my sump with a canopy, should I worry about the wood in the cabinet getting moisture and degrading causing it to collapse in any time?

I originally wanted to build a glass cover just to reduce the evaporation but thinking if I don't have a cover will I doom my cabinet?

Any suggestions would be awesome! I am about three days away from getting my sump in effect so if I need to do something different, now is the time!

 

This might help...

http://www.3reef.com/forums/reef-aquarium-articles-how-tos/all-about-sumps-filters-fuges-79852.html

 

Doesn't really answer the part about my cabinet and my make-shift cover I plan on using. Any ideas on that?

 

There are far more experienced people help here to answer these questions, but from what I know/read/understand its probably a better idea to not cover your sump to allow for increased gas exchange. Its a good idea to let your sump breathe and many people even have fans inside their cabinets to circulate the air and prevent water temps from increasing.

Anything wood inside the cabinet (including the cabinet) should definitely have a sealant coating to reduce wood rotting.

As for the water noise from the incoming water, mine is just above the water line and doesn't make much noise. The skimmer pump is louder than the water crashing.

 

Thanks for the input! So before getting this sump installed I should put a sealant around the entire inside of my cabinet?

Now that you mentioned it, I do remember reading about covering sumps and why it's not a good idea. Thanks!

 

Yes, I would seal the cabinet before you start placing any equipment in there. Search some threads to find out what everyone uses. Also, remember to take into consideration applying more than one coat and allowing ample dry time, as well as working in a ventilaed room.

Cheers

 

I would seal the cabinet to prevent any issues with water, I didnt and am seriously regretting it. As far as the plumbing in the sump what I and some people have done is to make an upside down "candy cane" shaped pipe that is larger diameter pipe than what you have coming from the over flow. Put this upside down candy cane at the bottom of the tank and that way the water will splash inside the larger pipe and then will be returned underwater and towards the surface.. This gets rid of little bubbles and noise altogether. As far as covering your sump, I would not do it, you really want as much gas exhange as you can get.. Let me see if I can find any pictures of my upside down candy cane I am speaking of..

 

If you didn't chime in I would probably have a fish floor in the next 9 months haha. Thank you sir!!

 

most people actually put the overflow just under the water, this prevents the salt creep caused by the splash at the surface.

 

Anytime.. I took some pictures of my return for you, now I just need to find my upload cable.. Check back here soon for the pics..