Rubbermaid Refugium Input Request

[droth335]

I am contemplating adding a DIY refugium under my 180 display. The tank is built into a wall with a 7'x10' "wet room" behind it so space is not too big of an obstacle. I am looking to put it under the display tank and have a DSB with macro algae with 7X24 pc lighting and some additional liverock. I was planning to return the water from the refugium into the sump (after the skimmer compartment) for return to the display tank. I am intrigued with the idea of building one out of a rubbermaid tub but have a couple of questions I haven't been able to resolve by searching previous posts:

1) Given you can't attach baffles in the rubbermaid, how do you partion off the return pump so it isn't in the DSB or get clogged with the macro algae?

2) What is the suggested flow through the refugium - I've heard relatively slow but seems to be some discussion around that (I currently have 1200gph through my sump with an additional 800gph via powerheads in the display for a total of ~2000gph).

Any input around this concept and/or questions would be appreciated.

Thanks!

[Geoff]

you can add baffles to those rubbermaid tubs if you want to. it takes some skill, but can be done. if you use 3M adhesive spray 90 you can cement polyethylene to polyethylene, which is what those tubs are made of. you can then use those polyethylene cutting boards to make the baffles.

i will start by saying i am not a big fan of refugiums.

why do you want a refugium? is there a certain task you think that it will preform for you?

G~

[droth335]

Geoff: Thanks for the input. I was looking to a regium to increase water volume, export nitrates via the algae as well as a source for pods etc to grow. Why are you not a fan of refugiums? I haven't seen much negative press on them...?

[Geoff]

i just think that they are just another area to clean on a regular basis. leaving it completely empty and just using it for added volume is great, much easier to clean something if it does not have anything else in it. in this case it will act like a settling tank and collect detritus so siphoning could be an easier chore.

it is easier to grow pods i a 20g tank with some LR and a load of phytoplankton than it is in an area connected to the displays water column. pods and clean water do not go hand in hand.

as for algae, if there is enough nutrients for algae to grow in a refugium, than why would it not grow in the display? they are both using the same water column. if you are unable to grow algae in the water column than that is a good thing.

G~

[russbriscoe]

I just built a 300gal sump and a 100gal water change station based off a local guys acrylic sump. It takes me 10 min to do a 100gal water change.

Here is the link: http://thereeftank.com/forums/showthread.php?t=71214

[koko]

Aside from the methods of glueing, one method would be to seat a bucket bottom inside the refugium and extend it up a couple of inches over the height of your sand bed. That should keep sand out and still be under your normal water level. Quick and sleazy compartment!

Peace,
koko


ps. oh...then put the pump in the bucket!