[GreatBrothaReef]

Hello all, I have a 14 biocube and I want to add a sump to my biocube so I can add a protein skimmer. I know people have said that a skimmer is not needed but after months and months of trying to lower my nitrates I really want to add something to help with nutrient export. I have tried everything to get my nitrates under 5 ppm but they are always high (15-20ppm average) and that with a very light bioload (2 clown fish) and very minimal feeding. I use a turkey baster to blow off the rocks and around the back compartment area as well.

Im running purigen, chempure elite with intank media basket. I have Steve's led SPS extreme led lighting.

I have a mixed reef and some of my SPS are doing well others are not.

My plan is to buy a 2nd biocube, drill it, then transfer over my hood over to the new biocube and add a sump with a skimmer.

I have seen videos on how to drill the back...but I have never plumbed and am totally clueless about how to go about the plumbing, where to drill the holes, how the compartment will play into the plumbing, etc.

Does anyone have a link to a video on where to drill the holes and best way to plumb the system or any helpful tips?

 

[weimers75]

Clowns are not a super light bioload...they are basically poop factories. So if fed like they should be, you'll need too do regular water changes to keep nitrates down. How frequent and how large are your water changes?

I know this isn't your original question, but I've never drilled a nano. I had a 24 running for years with 2 clowns and 2 gobies and never used a skimmer on that tank. Purigen should take the place of a skimmer, so the fact that you're using that suggests something is off...

 

[Family Tank]

I agree, still running a 14. And a 2nd octogon tank about the same size. Water changes water changes water changes until u get where you want your tank to be. I split a 5gl bucket between the 2 every wkend. Maybe do 5gl every wkend til u get there. I use Purigen and Boyds frequently.