It is often recommended that a freshwater sump be at least as big as the aquarium it is servicing. However, there are a number of factors to consider when determining the appropriate size for your sump. The following are some important considerations:
-The volume of water in your aquarium. A larger aquarium will require a correspondingly larger sump in order to maintain proper water volume and turnover rates.
-The type and number of filter media you plan on using. More filter media will require more space in order to function properly.
-The specific gravity of your aquarium water. This will affect the overall density of your setup and must be taken into account when sizing your sump.
-Your desired flow rate through the sump. A higher flow rate will require a larger sump in order to avoid potential issues with turbulence and clogging.