zRhino27

I'm starting my first saltwater tank. I'm getting a 46gal arcylic bowfront. I'm pricing the equipment for it and wonder should I be looking at a sump system or a back mount system? and witch one will be more efficent and easier matence.
Oh there will be alot more posts coming as I progress along.
thanks

Hypnox

What type of setup are you going with?
Fish only
Fish only with live rock
Reef
Fish only setups would require a good skimmer and power filter combo. FOWLR would only really require a skimmer as the live rock can act as a filter for you. A reef setup would benefit most from having a full sump/refugium to keep water as clean as possible.

GreenMan13

Basically, a sump would be the best in every respect other then maybe cost and space. Space is the main reason people use a back mount setup. I'm guessing that you mean a hang of back (HOB) system compared to a sump that is just built into the back part of the tank on the inside. A larger out of tank sump would be the best as far as maintenance as its would be most likely under the tank allowing you to reach it easier and larger so you have more room to work. As far as efficient it would be better since you could have more stuff to clean the water and you would have more water to keep it stabler.