Bulkhead leak Help!

[TracyLynn]

#reefsquad
During water change & maintenance I Noticed I had a leak on the return bulkhead trying to fix 1 the other side started leaking. I think I have it stopped, used Aquarium sealant. Problem is it needs to dry says 24 hours!
I have 75 gal mixed reef. I put an air stone in the display to at least have some movement.
How long will my fish & corals be ok without all the filtration turned on??
Would it be better to have the icecap pump on moving the water & air-stone overnight?
meaning no water being recycled thru the sump overnight??
I was afraid to use bathroom caulk on the pvc as it said it’s not safe. #reefsquad
Panicking thanks!!!

 

[W1ngz]

With the power heads running, an airstone and move the heaters into the display, your only problem is it'll be a bit cluttered until tomorrow

 

[Retro Reefer]

You should be fine but your going to want as much flow as possible in the tank, point powerheads towards surface to help,with oxygen levels.. air stone also won’t hurt.

 

[DivingTheWorld]

You used Aquarium Sealant, as in silicone? The problem with silicone is it’s essentially permanent.

Did you try just tightening the bulkheads a little? I had one loosen a little after a few years and I noticed salt leaking. I just tightened it a little and it’s been fine since.

 

[TracyLynn]

Oh thank God! And thank you for replying so quickly. I’ll do that and let this cure or redo it with help tomorrow.
THANKS SO MUCH!!!!

 

[TracyLynn]

You used Aquarium Sealant, as in silicone? The problem with silicone is it’s essentially permanent.

Did you try just tightening the bulkheads a little? I had one loosen a little after a few years and I noticed salt leaking. I just tightened it a little and it’s been fine since.

Yes I did bad idea I guess, but it’s done now. I did try tightening the bulkheads & I still had leakage. It was hard to tell if it was at the bulkhead or pvc. My son will help me tomorrow, he’s smarter & stronger than me. Hopefully I don’t have to buy a new return, because of what I’ve done.
Thanks everyone!! My panic attack has subsided. ;Nailbiting

 

[Greg P]

Your son is stronger than you, so don't over-tighten the bulkhead nuts kid !!
Hand tight, and then just a 1/4 turn more should be enough.
Bulkheads over-tightened can crack glass faster than you would imagine, and the nuts can split just as easily.
Go slow, check for leaks

 

[TracyLynn]

Your son is stronger than you, so don't over-tighten the bulkhead nuts kid !!
Hand tight, and then just a 1/4 turn more should be enough.
Bulkheads over-tightened can crack glass faster than you would imagine, and the nuts can split just as easily.
Go slow, check for leaks

Thanks for the heads up. I’ll be sure & tell him.