The return is the last thing I need to figure out. I had really wanted to do two 45s here but there just isn’t enough room (I might be able to do it if the union was moved higher but then it’s difficult to use as intended). I could gain a little space removing one of the unions but not ideal (not sure if I’d gain enough space to use the 45s anyway). I can do two 90s. That just seems a bit scary on a return, and one that is right after a fuge. Is this a terrible idea? Other ideas? I really didn’t want to do flex tubing except inside the sump itself. Other ideas? I could try custom bending pipe but that seems like it would be difficult to do given the limited size.
Need help with return plumbing
- Thread starter hllb
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DannyTanks
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The only thing to worry about with the (2) 90's is losing head pressure on your return pump. If you have an oversized return pump, I wouldn't stress about this too much. I understand the trouble you're going through - went through it on my own build. I got all of the way to where the return lines plumbed back into the back of my tank before realizing I didn't have enough space for (2) 45's... had to go with 90's. Don't regret it cause I get fine pressure on the return.
JoshH
Tank Status: Wet...ish, growing things....
If you aren't worried about pressure issues, well then there's nothing to worry about. In a return, head pressure and pump size is the only real concern. FWIW you don't NEED two unions there. One to disconnect the sump is all you need. I don't see a bulkhead you are tying into on the sump end so removing the plumbing from the sump after you disconnect it shouldn't be an issue
OP
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hllb
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I may or may not have a bulkhead there. The one that came with sump seemed flawed as there was a lip about 1/8 or 1/16 into it that stopped the pipe. I ordered a new one to see if it works, but not sure if I truly need one there. I'd like the extra sturdiness to hold the return in place but unsure if that's a big deal. I may play with it without the second union and see how if I could then use the 45s.If you aren't worried about pressure issues, well then there's nothing to worry about. In a return, head pressure and pump size is the only real concern. FWIW you don't NEED two unions there. One to disconnect the sump is all you need. I don't see a bulkhead you are tying into on the sump end so removing the plumbing from the sump after you disconnect it shouldn't be an issue
As for clogs, my only concern was about chaeto accidentally getting drawn in, though I've never had that issue so far in my current tank.
