Sump Question

[PhoenixSun]

I have a Tenecor tank that I want change sumps on so I can add a refugium. The problem I have is the returns are several inches below the water line so I have to have this massive sump that reaches to within 6 inches of the stand to hold the excess water. Does anyone have any suggestions besides checks valves? The returns run though the overflows so there is very limited room to make changes to these and I don't like the idea plumbing the returns above the water line in the tank for aesthetic reasons.

 

[Jawbone]

I dont have a suggestion to change your overflow situation but...
Have ewe considered having the refugium on a shelf above the main tank, then you could just pump water from the main into the refugium and overflow from the refugium back into the main.