Overflow Plumbing Question - .5" & 1"

[indyjaco]

Hi All,

I bought a new SCA 120G tank from a local here in indy with .5" and 1" drain holes. He had removed the original overflow removed and built a smaller overflow box out of glass which I need to install.

This smaller overflow box has created an issue for me. I cannot fit a durso into the overflow box due to the euro bracing on the tank and size of the overflow itself. I have thought about two stand pipes at .5" and 1", but will that allow me much flow and safety? I assume the .5" would be my main drain and 1" for the emergency.

I would rather not drill the tank due to lack of experience and the fear of cracking. I would be okay running the return over the back. I also don't need a lot of flow in the sump, maybe 250-300 gallons since I'll have QD's in the tank

What would you do and what could a .5" siphon flow? There is about 4' of head on the plumbing.

Thank you.

Jacob

 

[cromag27 Verified Sponsor]

I would never use 1/2" for a drain. I'm guessing it supposed to be for your return? a 1" diameter at full siphon (Herbie) can handle over 1000 gph but you need an open channel emergency drain at least 1.25".

 

[indyjaco]

It was supposed to be the return, but at this point it isn't going to happen.

 

[madweazl]

It was supposed to be the return, but at this point it isn't going to happen.

It isnt gonna happen as a drain line either. On a smaller tank you could get away with it but that is very small for a 120g. For a refugium, 3/4" would be fine for drains vice the 1.25" recommended above. 1" certainly would have been better all the way around vice what is currently there.

 

[indyjaco]

I can't fit 1.25". How much does a .5" herbie flow wide open?

 

[Xclusive Reef]

Don't understand why a local shop would sell a 120 gal with such small holes. Just watch some YouTube on drilling it does not look hard or see if you can have a local shop drill for you. I am going to try to drill my own on a 90 gal in a week or two.