I NEED HELP!!!

[mattstanks2016]

I have a new tank coming soon and I am confused with the plumbing. I have a 1" bulkhead on the overflow so what size pvc would I use? 1"? Then I am wanting to get a gate valve slip so how big would that be? I am a newbie in plumbing and need all the help I can get. This may be a stupid question...

 

[tomtom2245]

Yep, 1". This is just my personal preference but I prefer threaded connections. You can get a 1" slip to threaded adapter to make the connection and then get a threaded gate valve. It's more work but easier to take apart should the need ever arise. Just make sure to put teflon tape on any threaded connection.

 

[tomtom2245]

Also, I'm guessing you are plumbing in a sump, so don't forget to put a check valve on the return line. It will prevent a back siphon when you turn it off or the power goes out.

 

[mattstanks2016]

Also, I'm guessing you are plumbing in a sump, so don't forget to put a check valve on the return line. It will prevent a back siphon when you turn it off or the power goes out.

Yeah, once I figure this out the return is basically the same so I will be set!

 

[mattstanks2016]

Yep, 1". This is just my personal preference but I prefer threaded connections. You can get a 1" slip to threaded adapter to make the connection and then get a threaded gate valve. It's more work but easier to take apart should the need ever arise. Just make sure to put teflon tape on any threaded connection.

Do I need to get a 1 1/4" valve so that I can put in the pvc pipe or does 1" valve work on 1" pvc

 

[jsker]

I use 1 1/4 braided tubing for my overflow line with 1" fittings. What I would do is source the overflow line that you are going to use and then find the fitting when the tank arrives to make sure you have everything right.

 

[clownfish chris]

A few thoughts some contrary to the above. Your mileage may vary.
1. Avoid 90deg angles if possible. Use spa-flex PVC to make long sweeping turns if you can.
2. Use slip fittings, good glue, and primer on the pressurized return lines.
3. Use unions as often as practical- especially on both sides of the pump.
4. I don't like check valves because they reduce flow and can fail. Instead, I use a siphon break hole and keep my return lines just under the surface of the water. I clean the anti-siphon holes at least once a month.
5. If you have standard overflows, do not glue the risers inside the overflow boxes. I take them out to catch fish and clean.

 

[tomtom2245]

Do I need to get a 1 1/4" valve so that I can put in the pvc pipe or does 1" valve work on 1" pvc

The 1" valve should work. If you are worried, whenever I start a plumbing project, you can always find me in Home Depot piecing parts together to make sure everything fits.

 

[mattstanks2016]

Ok... I went to Lowes to make better since of the plumbing. I now understand and get it. I had a confusing setup of my tank a few years ago and since then it never made since till now.

 

[jsker]

Oh if one is looking for hose try Amazonhose, that is were I found the right sizes and right hose instead of settling for what the big box store has. That was my mistake when I ran my plumbing the first time. Also I used barbed fitting with plastic clamps with no leaks, and I can disassemble my plumbing to make changes instead of cutting and rehaving to purchase.

 

[john.m.cole3]

A few thoughts some contrary to the above. Your mileage may vary.
1. Avoid 90deg angles if possible. Use spa-flex PVC to make long sweeping turns if you can.
2. Use slip fittings, good glue, and primer on the pressurized return lines.
3. Use unions as often as practical- especially on both sides of the pump.
4. I don't like check valves because they reduce flow and can fail. Instead, I use a siphon break hole and keep my return lines just under the surface of the water. I clean the anti-siphon holes at least once a month.
5. If you have standard overflows, do not glue the risers inside the overflow boxes. I take them out to catch fish and clean.

+1 really good advice there. I would add in NEVER use teflon tape on threaded PVC. Use this,
LA-CO Plasto-Joint Stik Plastic Thread Sealant Stick
https://www.amazon.com/Plasto-Joint-Plastic-Thread-Sealant-Temperature/dp/B004MYFP8C