Plumbing question

mattstanks2016 · Nov 1, 2016

I am planning on plumbing my tank this weekend and I am not wanting to cement it. Would I be able to use black silicon and put that around the rims of the pvc or even inside? (Fish safe silicon) that way if I needed to undo the plumbing I would be able to.

Reeferdood · Nov 1, 2016

Not advisable whatsoever...
If you don't want to cement anything I would use Tygon and hose clamps....
Another option would be to use bulkhead fittings (above)
They make them so you can glue everything and take apart if necessary....

mattstanks2016 · Nov 1, 2016

Reeferdood said:
Not advisable whatsoever...
If you don't want to cement anything I would use Tygon and hose clamps....
Another option would be to use bulkhead fittings (above)

That's what I was thinking, but had to make sure.

cracker · Nov 1, 2016

Matt, Can we assume Your using pvc ? Also I think You want to test it 1st before committing ?

mattstanks2016 · Nov 1, 2016

cracker said:
Matt, Can we assume Your using pvc ? Also I think You want to test it 1st before committing ?

Yes PVC I can't do the tubing. Drives me crazy

mattstanks2016 · Nov 1, 2016

One other thing, what is the plastic part that stops other organisms from going into pipe?

dbl · Nov 1, 2016

If you're using PVC, you will either need to glue (using PVC cement) it or use threaded fittings for your connections. The PVC cement actually melts/disolves the PVC effectively welding the two pieces. Silicone will not work as a substitute...please do not attempt as I truly feel you will be disappointed with the results.

The use of union fittings like pictured above, if placed properly, will allow you to disassemble sections of your plumbing when needed. They can be purchased with slip or threaded connections.

cracker · Nov 1, 2016

Matt, . pvc isn't too pricey and You can always cut out a section and use couplings. So get it as right as You think best. Consider any future changes and glue it up ! We got faith in Your work !

chet31 · Nov 2, 2016

Do not attempt...! I can promise you that's a disaster waiting to happen.... 1 month or 1 year down the lane. Please use tried and proven methodology.

iLLwiLL · Nov 2, 2016

Why are you against gluing the pvc again?

mattstanks2016 · Nov 2, 2016

chet31 said:
Do not attempt...! I can promise you that's a disaster waiting to happen.... 1 month or 1 year down the lane. Please use tried and proven methodology.

I am going to. Just wanted to see if this was a option

mattstanks2016 · Nov 2, 2016

iLLwiLL said:
Why are you against gluing the pvc again?

PVC glue makes a permanent bond and I do not like the idea of this since something could clog the pipes.

iLLwiLL · Nov 2, 2016

If your worried about something clogging the pipes, install unions. Also if you go with something like a bean animal setup you have 3 drains. 1 full siphon, 1 partial and a back up emergency. Ontop of it being redundant and fail safe it's extremely quiet.

Reeferdood · Nov 2, 2016

Depending on what type of overflows (drains) you have, a Durso standpipe will prevent anything from clogging up...
In all of the years I have been keeping glass boxes of water, I have never even heard of clogging the plumbing as long as it was set up right to begin with...

mattstanks2016 · Nov 2, 2016

Reeferdood said:
Depending on what type of overflows (drains) you have, a Durso standpipe will prevent anything from clogging up...
In all of the years I have been keeping glass boxes of water, I have never even heard of clogging the plumbing as long as it was set up right to begin with...

I am planning to do a Herbie overflow.

Reeferdood · Nov 2, 2016

As long as you keep your strainer cleared off your emergency drain should never see water.. Have you looked at other options?
Dursos are very quiet and you will have less holes and bulkheads to deal with.
Either way, both are proven drains.

LParker480 · Nov 2, 2016

Unions will allow you to separate the pipes as needed. They make it possible to disassemble for maintenance and put it all back together. Basically, they're two fitting that screw together and join the pipes. A helpful hack in this hobby.

ReeferBob · Nov 2, 2016

Either glue using PVC glue or it will leak and you will wish you had used glue. Listen to those with more experience!

cracker · Nov 2, 2016

I suppose You could use silicone tape ( not teflon tape!) on the fittings. for a very short period to see how it's working. I got this tape at the Home depot . It's clear and stretchy. sticks to itself and seals pretty good.