125g display, 55g sump plumbing

[cmartin]

Hi all, I'm new to saltwater and sumps. I'm currently planning a 125g display with a 55g sump and plan on running at 1,000-1200gph with a herbie style overflow. The tank will be drilled on the back and the sum will be 4-5ft directly below. My question is, what sizes should my drain and return lines be to achieve the desired flow?

 

[Flippers4pups]

I'm not a flow guy, let's see what others say.

#reefsquad

 

[dbl]

Welcome to R2R. I think 1" drains will achieve your goal. Your return pump will impact your return line size but 3/4" would work out just fine in my opinion. I have a 120g and my original sump was also a 55g and that's how I achieved right around that same flow.

As you will likely find out, there are many ways to skin the cat and opinions will vary.

 

[dwest]

That’s a lot of flow!

 

[cmartin]

Welcome to R2R. I think 1" drains will achieve your goal. Your return pump will impact your return line size but 3/4" would work out just fine in my opinion. I have a 120g and my original sump was also a 55g and that's how I achieved right around that same flow.

As you will likely find out, there are many ways to skin the cat and opinions will vary.

Thanks, and I agree! My head was spinning with all the different opi

That’s a lot of flow!

From what I've read, it should be 5-10x display volume. Am I wrong?

 

[nereefpat]

I would do closer to 5x. More than a few times an hour is plenty.

I agree that 1" drains with either 1" or 3/4" returns is the way to go.

 

[dwest]

Thanks, and I agree! My head was spinning with all the different opi
From what I've read, it should be 5-10x display volume. Am I wrong?

Certainly not wrong. Theres nothing wrong with 3 or 4 though either. The advantages of less flow through the sump are often a smaller pump, so less energy costs and pump cost. Less flow is often quieter as well. You will still want lots of turnover within the tank with powerheads.