What type of Plumbing?

[fernalfer]

Ok so i'm in the process of building a custom stand for my 120 dual overflow tank. The stand it comes with is only 28 inches high. I have a Trigger Systems sump which leave virtually no space for Skimmer or plumbing. The stand i'm building will be around 36". Question is what are the pros and cons to PVC vs Tubing or hose for plumbing? Not quite sure which way to go.

If they both serve the same purpose is one easier then the other. Just need some input on which way i should go with the plumbing.

 

[Diesel]

Good question!
In all these years I never ask myself that same question.
IMO you should ask your self not what's easier, but what's durable long turn.
I guess that will give you a answer right here.
Btw, good move on the taller stand.

 

[fernalfer]

any other opinions?

 

[TreyC2010]

PVC takes a little more effort but it is my choice. I just got done plumbing mine with pvc from BRS. I can break it down (with unions) and clean or move whatever and put it right back. It also looks great. Hoses look like you have a fish tank but pvc makes it an aquarium. That's how I see it. If that makes sense.

 

[fernalfer]

PVC takes a little more effort but it is my choice. I just got done plumbing mine with pvc from BRS. I can break it down (with unions) and clean or move whatever and put it right back. It also looks great. Hoses look like you have a fish tank but pvc makes it an aquarium. That's how I see it. If that makes sense.

Thanks PVC is the way i will go. Next question is tho most have 1 inch PVC on the drain side and 3/4 on the return. But some say you should go 1 inch on the return aswell all the way to bulkhead then reduce down to 3/4. Not sure which route i should take?

 

[Isaac Alves]

Good question.

 

[jetmaker]

If you reduce to 3/4 you might as well go all the way 3/4 it will be the same flow.

 

[redfishbluefish]

For your return, go with the fattest pipe you can fit....and reduce right before going into the tank. Friction is the killer in flow calculations.....and without getting technical, smaller diameter pipe causes for greater frictional losses.

 

[mfinn]

Ok so i'm in the process of building a custom stand for my 120 dual overflow tank. The stand it comes with is only 28 inches high. I have a Trigger Systems sump which leave virtually no space for Skimmer or plumbing. The stand i'm building will be around 36". Question is what are the pros and cons to PVC vs Tubing or hose for plumbing? Not quite sure which way to go.

If they both serve the same purpose is one easier then the other. Just need some input on which way i should go with the plumbing.

As long as you are spending the money for a nice sump, making the effort to build a new stand, why not make the effort to do a nice plumbing job with pvc?
I think this is a area some don't think it's worth it to try and make it look nice.
You can really make it look classy with straight plumbing lines.
If you really want to make it shine, consider colored pvc.

 

[TreyC2010]

Thanks PVC is the way i will go. Next question is tho most have 1 inch PVC on the drain side and 3/4 on the return. But some say you should go 1 inch on the return aswell all the way to bulkhead then reduce down to 3/4. Not sure which route i should take?

I'd go with the fattest pipe also. I'm using 1" and reducing to 3/4" sea swirl.