Reef tank 55Gal upgrade from HOB to sump

[Vinny123]

I have recently started up my first saltwater tank, its about 7 months old with livestock and corals. Currently (since i went the cheapest route possible for start up) all i have for filtration is a HOB filter. All equipment is in the tank, and im considering 2 options... #1 is to setup a HOB refugium and protein skimmer, in hopes that this will help me make the tank more stable and reduce nitrate climbs... #2 is to lower the tank water and drill the tank/ add a sump... my question is which route should or shouldnt i take? i feel like a sump would give me more options down the road and increase my water volume, but its also riskier. Thoughts? Thanks in advanced!

 

[kylgrave9]

Personally I would definitely not attempt to drill a tank that has livestock, even if you knew the glass was able to be drilled it’s risky. Another option to be able to have a sump would be a hang on overflow box

 

[Uncle99]

This is a 55g with no sump, just filter, skimmer and wavemaker.
The hobby doesnt have to be expensive.

 

[Vinny123]

That is beautiful!!! What filter and skimmer ar you running?

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Might as well show mine... it's nothing like yours though lol