Dual returns, completely parallel?

[SteveG_inDC]

I have to two 1" return lines for my 240 gal that I am setting up and thinking about putting two return pumps each plumbed independently to one return.

Is this a good design?

 

[BlennyTime]

That’s what I did, each return path is totally separate. I like it because if one fails, the other would still maintain flow to the sump.

 

[Brew12]

It is what I wished I had done with my system, so I would say yes.

 

[Silent]

Redundency in reefing is as good thing.

 

[KStatefan]

I think it is a good idea. One of the benifits is that it allows you to have each return pump on a different circuit or at least a different GFCI.

 

[Biglew11]

all pros, zero cons. redundancy can be crucial. you can take one pump off line to clean it and still maintain flow.

 

[Gablami]

Just to add to everyone’s point, separate return lines is the best way to set this up. If they were connected at any point, if one pump fails, water will preferentially flow from the working pump back down through the non working pump causing recirculation. So you’d have to install a check valve system to prevent that. All in all, best to keep parallel.

 

[SteveG_inDC]

Wow, thanks, everyone! To compete the plan I'll use identical pumps. I happen to have two Mag12s so I'll go with those.

That means I have to pull one off my mixing station, which is fine because I have a blueline external pump i can use for the mixing station. This creates a new problem because there isn't much space. That's what this hobby is about, I guess, coming up with project after project.

 

[Brew12]

That's what this hobby is about, I guess, coming up with project after project.

This hobby is about spending way too much on equipment you need to replace in 6 months. Using pumps you already have is doing it completely wrong!