Sump baffles

[dlemisch]

Can anyone explain how to install baffles in a 30 gal sump? I need the over/under effect to eliminate bubbles. I'm currently using a large foam sponge which works perfectly but I'm sure I'm filtering out some beneficial creatures along with the bubbles. Is there anything standard available over the net?

[Rick O]

Hi Dlemisch,

The baffles will have to be made to fit your sump. The easiest thing to use is acrylic sheets. You can get 1/4" acrylic from Home Depot. If you don't have a saw they can cut it for you. Then just secure them in place with silicone sealant. The sump will have to be clean and dry to use silicone so if it's already in use you will have to take it out for this procedure. Also be sure to use silicone made for aquariums. The other kinds may contain addatives that would be harmful to your inhabitants. I found some at Ace Hardware made by DAP. I would wait at least 24 hours for the silicone to cure before re-using the sump.

Rick

[Minnreefer]

A note on that idea, I got my acrylic from a plastic shop, they had leftover peices that were really cheap like $0.28 a lb so you might want to call a plastic shop and ask them.

[dlemisch]

Thanks for the response. Any suggestions for placement? How many baffles does it take? How far apart? Does the first one allow the water to go over or under? Again, many thanks.

[Doug1]

Mine goes over then under than over the top into the return section

[Blake]

Here is the picture of my sump. It is made from a used 55gal that I got for free (yay!)



Here's the baffle side; it has 1 gal of water in it.