Here are the items that you guys need to DIY a refugium that can be placed above the sump tank.
IKEA SAMLA BOX
IKEA SAMLA LID
TANK CONNECTORS
SPARE WATER PUMP controllable would be ideal
SPARE LIGHT FIXTURE THAT CAN FIT ONTO THE LID
SPARE TUBING
Bought a SAMLA IKEA box + lid at $4+$2, as I've got some height constrains the 11L box was picked for this project
Here is the link for those who have the luxury of space to pick the ideal box for your sump. http://www.ikea.com/sg/en/catalog/products/60180885#/10180939/
The current online picture is opaque but they have a new colour which is black. Good for reducing light escaping into sump tank which will discourage unnecessary algae growth in sump and in skimmer body, which many of us don't really want
The size of the opening depends on the light fixtures that you are going to use. For me an opening was cut at the lid to fit in a 1 feet aquazonic fixture, but if you guys have spare lights lying around collecting dust pls do reuse them. E.g clip on lamp or LED fixture or spare 2ft fixture.
Got 2 PVC tank connectors from the hardware shop near petmart, if you know any other place that sells something similar please do go where its most convenient for you. This tank connector comes with rubber gasket which is fantastic. Bought the smallest that they have, which is about 19mm
Drill holes anywhere on the SAMLA box that you would like the water to enter and to be drained, for me i placed both on the same side.
Final result of my mini DIY refugium placed on top of my sump tank, not really fantastic but still need to fine tune this DIY refugium. Especially the gurgling sound and the loose cheato that will some how get into your sump tank
This DIY refugium is open for improvements. Feel free to pass your comments and will post bi-monthly results. Hope this will help and benefit the reefing community.