A couple of newbie questions.....

[meteors16]

I have two questions for all of you veterans.

1. Is there a good way to add live sand to a running established tank? It will be new sand.

2. Are baffles separating an in-sump protein skimmer and the return pump a necessity? It is a 10 gallon sump with a mag-7 as the return. Should I install some baffles?

Thanks!!
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[jimsflies]

1. Does your tank already have sand?

2. I would say baffles are not a necessity, however you are more likely to have issues with microbubbles in your return line from the skimmer without them.

[XSiVE]

I think no matter if you use baffles or not, you will have bubble problems with a 10g sump and that strong of a return pump.

[AZDesertRat]

You can place the sand in zip loc bags, lower them to the bottom and slowly open and pour the contents out. Another way is to use a piece of 2" PVC and a funnel to pour the sand on the bottom where you want it.

Baffles are almost a must if you have an in sump skimmer. Microbubbles will be a major PITA without them. A Mag 7 is a monster of a pump with a 10G sump even with baffles. You want some detention time in the sump to dissipate bubbles, you will be recirculating in a matter of seconds with no bubble relief. I don't think you wil be very happy with the results.

[igot2gats]

1. Does your tank have sand already?

2. How much sand are you adding?

3. What livestock do you have in your tank?