DIY: Salt Water Aquarium Sump

When it comes to saltwater aquariums, the more water a tank has circulating the better. Instead of buying a larger tank, aquarium hobbyists can add a sump under their aquarium to hold extra water that can be circulated into the tank. While sumps are sold at pet stores, you can opt to build your own. These box designs don't need to be fancy; they just need to be the right size to fit under your aquarium or in its stand.

Things You'll Need

  • Acrylic sheet
  • Acrylic cement
  • Table saw
  • Acrylic saw blade
  • Clamps
  • Measuring tape
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Instructions

  1. Instructions

    • 1

      Observe the area around the aquarium where your sump will be placed. Check for any obstructions, such as door hinges or the aquarium stand's bracing, that will get in the way of the sump.

    • 2

      Measure the interior dimensions of the aquarium stand where the sump will be placed. When measuring, remember to give your future sump a little wiggle room so it's not flush against the sides of the stand and that you have space to access it.

    • 3

      Calculate what size pieces of acrylic you will need for the construction of the sump. You will need four side pieces and a bottom piece. Remember that when accounting for the size of the sump's pieces to factor in the width of the material they will be connected to. For example, if your sump is going to be 15 inches tall and your material is 1/4 inch thick, your side pieces will need to be 14.75 inches tall.

    • 4

      Cut the acrylic pieces needed for your sump. Most plastic shops are able to cut the material for you, for a fee. If that option is not available, cut the pieces on a table saw using a saw blade made to cut acrylic.

    • 5

      Attach the cut acrylic pieces using acrylic cement, which is a specialized adhesive. Use clamps to help hold each piece in place while applying and drying. Wait for the glue to cure. Follow the directions of the acrylic cement you used. Most require at least 24 hours of wait time before the bond is waterproof.

    • 6

      Test the sump to see if it leaks by filling it with water. If the sump successfully holds water, empty it out before placing it under the aquarium. Don't move the sump while it's full of water. If it does spring a leak, empty the sump and reapply the acrylic cement to the area that leaked.

    • 7

      Put the sump under your tank and fill it with saltwater. Attach the return and overflow equipment from your aquarium.