AIO or SUMP? When every inch counts, what to choose?

fr3n0z · Mar 1, 2024

Hi guys, i want to upgrade my small 16g with 12g sump system. Space is only 80x50Cm available. BUT i am a DIYer that like to add "automations" so i need lot's of space in the cabinet area (2x 25lt AWC container, 1x 25 liter rodi reservoir). At the moment AWC container are out of the aquarium and i don't like it.

I want to take a 35g and the choice is making it a AIO or keep going with the sump.

- AIO scares me since i have all the probes, hoses, etc coming out of it and i'm scared i will be needing a sump.

- Sump scares me since i will keep having not a lot of space in the tank.

What you guys would do?

ATM her's the sistuation in the sump cabinet:

Here is how i tought about a AIO: In the tank there will be automatico filter, skimmer, heater and return pump. In the cabinet i will have all the containers and electronics.

I tought about putting a couple of 20mm holes in the side of the internal sump in order to have a couple of hoses going down to connect them to a chaeto reactor. So that i don't have the 20mm hoses in view.

TX_REEF · Mar 1, 2024

I'd never forgo a sump when it's an option. Just way easier to keep equipment organized and hidden, and adds extra total water volume to system.

slythy · Mar 1, 2024

I would rather just do HOB over AIO. Sump 100% of the time.

JoJosReef · Mar 1, 2024

In my case, an AIO is safer than plumbing a sump. I can't afford any flooding in my office, so I have my system set up to handle all but the worst catastrophe (seam break, glass break, earthquake). AIO has an emergency overflow, so even if filtration gets clogged, the water just goes over the AIO wall back into return pump chamber. If the ATO goes nuts, I have the tank over a galvanized steel pan that can hold 4 gallons of water before it overflows onto the carpet (my ATO container usually has 3-4 gallons in it).

In this case, the AIO is a better choice. But if not, I think a sump has more advantages.