canister filter vs. sump & skimmer

[mcgilacoty]

is there a supplier that carries a sump or refugium kit for a 55 gallon tank? it sure would make it easier to just plug it in and go instead of buying individual components.

another thought... does anyone have any experience with the lifegard customflo plumbing apparatus? i'm contemplating using that along with a wave box or powerhead for in tank flow. suggestions?

[stoneroller]

Check with the LFSs in Austin. See our sponsor list. They usually have sump kits; you'll need an overflow unless your tank is drilled. PS. I made my own sump using a 15 gallon aquarium and siliconed acrylic plates for baffles.

Personally I wouldn't use something as complicated as the customflow. I'd go with loc-line on the return pump. For current you should depend on dedicated current pumps like the Koralias, Seio and Tunze$. I'd be surprised if a 55 would handle a wavebox. My $0.02

[longhorna95]

I use to do the filter pads and bio balls, they work good and are cheap at first but the natural way is a lot better, I think going to the LFS and seeing everything put togther will help with any anxiety you might have with putting your system together, I wish I would have gone to my LFS a lot more when I was at your stage, it can save you a lot of hassel and problems you might face.