Can return lines from sump be the same size as drains?

[ReefWithCare]

I have 1” drains from my overflow. Can my return lines to my tank be 1” as well? I’m using a DC pump.

 

[reefertank]

I have 1” drains from my overflow. Can my return lines to my tank be 1” as well? I’m using a DC pump.

I would go with 2 inch drain 1 inch return.

 

[Smo]

Sure, but some would say larger than necessary. How much flow are you planning?
I have two systems with 1” drains (both BeanAnimal) and 3/4” returns are adequate.

 

[ReefWithCare]

It’s just a FOWLR for now but will eventually be a mostly LPS tank and zoa tank (I love zoas). 125G is the size.

 

[User]

Your return pipe size is dictated by the outlet of your pump.

If it’s eg 1.5” outlet, and you throw a 3/4” pipe on it, you are going to seriously inhibit the performance of the pump.

Use either a gate valve or, in the case of dc pumps with controller box, dial it back electronically to match the return flow to your overflow drain.

 

[ihavecrabs]

Just keep in mind your drains are gravity fed and the returns are under pressure. I would always oversize the drains compared to the returns.

For example: Mine are dual 3/4" returns with three 1.5" drains (one is used full siphon, the second is a trickle, the third is dry and there in case of emergency).

 

[User]

If you use a gate valve on your drain to tune it, that factor is already compensated for. The gate valve essentially turns your drain into a 0.92” or a 0.84” pipe, depending on where you set it. It’ll then very closely match your pump, and extra capacity is provided by another drain (#2 in a herbie, 2 and 3 in a beananimal)

 

[mfinn]

I have 1” drains from my overflow. Can my return lines to my tank be 1” as well? I’m using a DC pump.

Yes you can use the same size pvc pipe for drains and returns.
But you have to make sure the drain lines can handle the return flow from the pump.
It's just that simple.

On my 233 gallon tank I use 1" pvc for both the drains and the return.