hooking up sump
 

Hi just would like to know what type of piping to use with sump to tank overflow (pvc or flex tube type hose ) should I have some shut offs or one way valves also would a 20 gal be the correct size sump tank for a 72 gal aquarium. still looking for the right type of sump to buy or build.

It's so often system dependant that it's difficult to advise on plumbing design. I use vinyl hose for a return line from my in sump return pump. My overflow feeds the sump via 1.5" rigid PVC. For sump size, I recommend going as big as you can.
Try to visit some local tanks for real life ideas on design.

reply
 

One thing you may want to consider in your over floe pipe is that the larger diameter pipe you use the louder it will be. I use 2" pvc for my 54 corner tank that drains with 3 bends in it to my 15 gallon sump. My sump houses my protien skimmer pump, some live rock and crush coral, as well as my return pump. I keep it about 2/3 to 3/4 full and it seems to be a good size for my system. I've heard about people using 20 gallon sumps on tanks up to 110 gallons, it all depends on how you utlilize the space given.

I personally would use the largest sump that I could physically fit into the area I have. A little more water volume never hurt right?

As for the type of piping, I have worked with both rigid and flexable pvc and I'd have to say the flexible pvc is much easier to work with since you can bend it and whatnot. You might also reduce headloss with flexible pvc since you might not have to use as many PVC elbows and 45's.

I use flex pvc, the smooth not the ribbed stuff and I really like it. It is easy to work, more forgiving to line things up and it seems quieter to me.

reply
 

I didn't know there was such a thing as felv. pvc. Might be worth looking into for the whole noise thing.

It's not that easy to find, I eventually found mine at a store that sells and installs hot tubs. The connections are regular pvc fittings. I went with 1.5",

My take on this is somewhat different. 1st, figure out what your water flow needs to be. A 1" pipe can only drain about 800gph for example, so using a pump larger than 800gph would flood your tank. Once you know your flow rate and therfore your ideal pipe size, you can choose the type of pipe. As danny zubot wrote, larger piping is louder, so be a minimalist at this step.

Flex line is easier to work with but the water does not drain as well as through a rigid pipe. Think of how the water moves through a bending waterslide, it sloshes, you don't want sloshing. I use flex in tight areas (like in my overflow) but rigid everywhere else.

For sump size, go to a store that sells your brand of skimmer, pump, heater ect. and place all of them into the sump for an idea of space consumption. Most of us will add more toys as our tanks mature so leave yourself some extra space. Newguy is right in putting in the largest sump possible. It will make life easier, just think, you won't have to top off water as often!

Hope this helps
Rick