Skimmer question

Defect · Mar 3, 2014

So I have the Reef Octopus Recirculating skimmer DNWB 110. Found out I need another pump because its recirculating but I am wondering If I can use a T from my overflow and hard plumb it right into the water inlet? I only have one overflow hole in my tank and it is 3/4 inch. Is this going to work or will I have to buy another pump?

Thanks,

Aaron

Edit : Doesn't sound like it will work but thought I read this somewhere.

Defect · Mar 3, 2014

Bump. Anyone?

Eric B · Mar 3, 2014

I looked at a photo of it on the web and I would try to "T" the drain line. The only way to safely do it this way is to have the straight through part so water doesn't have to make the 90 degree turn in the "T" going from tank drain directly to skimmer and the side part of the "T" going to the sump. I would then put in a gate or ball valve in the line going to skimmer between the "T" and the skimmer so that you can control the flow into skimmer and any extra will just build up until it reaches the side exit of the "T" and flow into sump unrestricted bypass through the side "T" plumbing and just drain into sump. I think this will be the only way to do it and it no room to do it this way then you can possibly "T" your return line and feed with return pump or feed with a separate pump. Hope I explained it so that you understand!

Reefing Madness · Mar 3, 2014

Yup, I think your good with the way you want to go about it.
Then again, with the above statement, you could better control the flow into the skimmer.

Defect · Mar 3, 2014

Thank you so much. I was planning on doing a T with a ball valve on it but I didnt think about putting the T directly to the skimmer and the rest into the sump. I was thinking reverse but thinking about it now the way you are saying make much more sense.

Thanks again,

Aaron

Eric B · Mar 3, 2014

No problem hope it works for you and I explained it well enough!

Defect · Mar 5, 2014

Alright.....Need some help here again. Tested my skimmer in the bath tub and I am not so sure its working correctly. I am not getting that swirling vortex of bubble doom that I see all other skimmers doing. Now is this because the water is fresh water or did I do something wrong? Here is a picture that might be of some help. Its a recirc skimmer just to say it again....maybe that makes a difference.

Thanks

TheSaint216 · Mar 5, 2014

Because its Freshwater

Defect · Mar 5, 2014

Thanks, about to start doing my plumbing and just needed to know if this thing was doing whats right.

Defect · Mar 5, 2014

Is this going to work? Gravity feed from the overflow with a ball valve to control flow into skimmer. The rest goes to the right of the "T" into the sump. The other goes from my return pump straight up. Sorry for all the questions but this is my first time plumbing anything in my life and don't want to have to tear it all down.

Thanks,

Aaron