installing vectra m1

[mrtian97]

upgtading my retun pump to vectra m1. Currently I have small pumps that each run for uv and another running media gfo/gac reactor. 120 gallon total volume.
Can I use the m1 for all 3 purposes using manifolds, return, UV and reactor?

Thanks in advance

 

[mfinn]

I suppose it's possible since uv's ( depending on size)and some reactors don't require a lot of flow.
The Vectras aren't pressure rated pumps, so the head loss might be higher than other pumps.
But you have 2000gph ( at 0 head) to work with.

 

[dbrewsky]

Sure you can! it doesn't have to be super complex manifold or anythin,g but you will benefit from only having one, efficient pump running your system instead of 3. If in doubt that the Vectra M1 will handle your flow needs, pay the extra 100 dollars for the L1. It is an investment worth doing in my opinion. The beauty of DC is you can turn the pump down and reduce the flow and electricity usage to meet YOUR needs!

I did this with a L1 and a manifold on my build:

https://www.reef2reef.com/threads/dbrewskys-120-gallon-build.229666/page-4#post-2754992

 

[mrtian97]

Thanks dbrewsky. I enjoy your build. One quick question, my plan is to Tee off from Return to DT and then others. Then from Others, I will have ball valve to control the flow. From that manifold, I plan to Tee again to 2 places, the UV and the reactor. Do I need to place ball valve on one of this drop, or just direct from the tee. I would like to simplify the # of fitting, and currently I am running similarly sized small pump (200 gph with no head loss) for each of the UV and the reactor, I figure I don't have to put ball valve on this junction.

 

[dbrewsky]

If I understand your plan, it sounds like a solid return plumbing design. To clarify, you will want to put some sort of flow contricting valve on each outlet of your manifold so you can control and fine tune the flow going to each reactor or device. I would design a valve into each manifold outlet and also each return line so you have the control you need to ensure water is going where you want and at what velocity.

I hope this helps, my experiences over the years has gone from flexible tubing to pvc to pvc with lots of valves and unions for a reason. If possible utilize these tools where you can