Question on sump design

[bergie33]

I am putting together the sump for my 55g tank. I am using a 20g tank as the sump. It will house the skimmer, dual 150w heaters and an Eheim 1260 return pump. Below is a diagram that I drew for what I was planning on doing, and wanted to get your feedback. My skimmer is the Coralife 125g Super Skimmer, the thing is rather large, and will only fit as an in-sump setup. It will take up a bit of room.

One question I have is how high should the two end baffles be? I calculated it out, and if my 55g tank is full, and the return pump shuts off, it will provide 3.5" of water to the depth of the sump, so I know the working water level in the sump should be 3.5" below the top of the tank. Is that the level that those baffles should be at as well, or should they be a little bit lower?

Also, is it necessary to have "teeth" cut into the tops of the two outer baffles, or should I just leave them straight?

[bosscrab]

I had teeth on the return side baffle but don't think its necessary.
As far as water line its no set height, like you say allow for back fill and you should be good.
Make sure that its enough for you skimmer to run in too. You can always lift it up if need be.

[bergie33]

DUH! Now that I think about it, the backfill shouldn't be an issue. I am installing a check valve on the return line.