Check Valve on Return Line

[dvybiral]

Hello Reefers,
I have just started my plans on plumbing my new 120gal. My tank has a single 1" return and I was debating on do I really need a check valve for that return line. I have a 1" bulkhead with 1" loc-line and a NPT adaptor with knuckle segments which I will keep 1/2" below the water line inside the tank. Is that enough to keep back siphoning at a minimum? I have a 1" wye check valve, but it seems it would reduce the return flow even more by it's design. The sump is 46 gallons so I think it will handle the amount of back flow.
Thanks for your response.
DV

 

[Waters]

I used to use them all the time but the last two builds I have left them out. They require maintenance to keep them clean and working properly, otherwise they will fail. Making sure your sump can handle the back flow is a much better alternative, which you have done.

 

[miPapareef]

I don’t use check valves. Instead, I make sure that the amount of water that the return line siphons back will not overflow the sump. I know there is a chance the lock line could be pushed lower lower (back siphon more) but that is easily detectable and corrected. The check valve is much more likely to to fail and be harder to detect and correct when it does. I would never rely only on the check valve to prevent the flood. Also like you said the flow will be less in the return.

 

[DivingTheWorld]

I'd skip it. I added one and it's failed from day 1. As said, just make sure your sump can take the extra volume.

 

[Idoc]

Measure the open space in your sump and calculate how much water that space holds. Then calculate the soace/ amount if water that will back siphon frim the DT before the siphon breaks. If your sump can handle this amount siphoning back into it, then no check valve required.

 

[dvybiral]

Thanks for the responses, I think I will leave the wye check valve out and not use it, which I can return and save me $59.99