Anyone know a lot about Sumps?

[HiItsValerie]

I think I know what one looks like, but could you guys post a few pics so I know what it is for sure? Is it the clear plastic box thing with the bio balls??? Those come with protein skimmers sometimes, is that a good idea?

[ajx22]

Do a search on sumps and you will find a TON of info about them.

The search button is located at the top right of the page.

You can also click here:
http://www.aquariumpros.ca/forums/search.php?s=&action=showresults&searchid=19376&sortby=lastpost&sortorder=descending

[afss]

Basically it boils down to a sump being a container (usually a tank) under the main display tank. A sump has a few purposes. One is that with a sump the water level in the main tank will not fluctuate up and down with evaporation etc. all that will happen in the sump while the main tanks level stays the same.

Second it is a place to add additives and other things

Third it is a place to put you heater, your skimmer and any other equipment that you don't want cluttering up the main tank.

HTH

Scott