Sump Filtration buyer guide. Auxiliary tank below the display housing skimmer + media + heaters - the reef-tank standard.
Sump Filtration TL;DR
Price range: $200-$1,500.
Auxiliary tank below the display housing skimmer + media + heaters - the reef-tank standard.
How sump filtrations work
Auxiliary tank below the display housing skimmer + media + heaters - the reef-tank standard. Mechanical filtration captures particulates, biological filtration hosts nitrifying bacteria, and chemical filtration uses media (carbon, GFO, resins) to remove dissolved compounds.
Sizing for your tank
Rule of thumb: pick a filter rated for 4-6x your tank volume in gallons-per-hour turnover. Oversizing is safer than undersizing - cleaner water, more nitrifying surface area, more headroom for stocking growth.
Setup and maintenance
Rinse mechanical media in old tank water (NEVER tap water - chlorine kills bio-bacteria) every 2-4 weeks. Replace chemical media (carbon) monthly. Bio-media is permanent - never replace unless physically degraded.
Common sump filtration mistakes
Replacing all media at once - destroys the bio-filter. Rinsing in tap water - same result. Skipping pre-filter sponges - shortens main media life. Buying undersized for the tank - leads to ammonia spikes.
Cost expectations
Sump Filtration runs $200-$1,500 new. Used units in working condition: 40-60% off. Replacement media adds $30-$150 per year.
Sump Filtration FAQ
Is a sump filtration good for a beginner?
Yes - sized appropriately, all major filter types work for beginners.
How long does a sump filtration last?
5-15 years with normal use; impellers and seals are wear items.
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