Sump filters
are a method of filtration that is housed exterior to the fish tank. Water
passing into the system is oxygenated as the water falls onto the first
layer of the media. The action of this cascading water has earned these
devices the alternate name of 'trickle filters'.
This type of fish filter can be purchased pre made or created yourself.
Both commercial and DIY sumps work on the same principles. The typical parts
required in each are a water pump, container, pipes, hose, and media.
The process starts with a water pump housed in the aquarium itself. The
liquid is pumped down tubes to some spray bars which sit over the media in
the sump container. A spray bar is essentially a piece of pipe with holes in
it that allows water to mix with oxygen as it enters the filter. Enriching
oxygen is considered essential to allow the aerobic filtration bacteria a
steady supply.
A large surface area is typical of most sump filters. This makes them
capable of keeping big aquariums nice and clean. After a period of
maturation the filter will host microorganisms that will perform biological
filtration to remove ammonia and it's derivatives. The top media layers will
also mechanically filter by catching particles. If you choose to use carbon
or similar media then the sump will also offer chemical filtration
The general rule when adding media is to place finer materials such as
polyester wool toward the top. Coarser mediums are kept at the bottom of the
pile. Down there you might place bio balls or ceramic tubes.
The bottom of the sump filter has a reservoir where filtered water collects.
The water travels from here through an outlet pipe back to the aquarium via
the action of gravity.
To make this work the sump must be above the aquarium.
Aquarium Filter Related Pages
Aquarium Filter Information
|
Aquarium
Filters For
Sale
|
Canister
Filter
Internal
Power Filter |
Sponge
Filter |
Under
Gravel Filter |
Box Filter
Hang On Filters
|
Goldfish Bowl Filter
|
Reverse Undergravel Filter
Canister
Filtration
Aquarium Filter Media Related Pages
Fiber Wool |
Filter Carbon |
Bio
Balls |
Filter Cartridge Refill
