What size plumbing?

[parkinsn]

if you go bigger you can always upgrade flow later if you have to. just my 2 cents.

[xtreme]

Chances are you will need a couple different size hole saws and bulkheads as return lines are generally smaller than your drains. Your return line will depend on the size of your return pump outlet. I would think 2 - 1" drains should be enough as you shouldn't need to have more than a few hundred GPH flowing through your sump, based on a 45 gallon display. Any upgrades to flow within the display tank won't effect your overflows.

[loveless]

I agree. I have a 1.5" drain and a 1" return line on my 180gal. I use a mag 12 with around 8-900 gph through the sump.

[sphelps]

The bigger the better for both lines, more flow and will allow for future upgrades. If you got the ability to run 1.5" for both, go for it.

[Myka]

The return size depends on the pump, you should find a reccommended size for your particular pump in the user manual. Many manufacturers recommend a pipe size twice the diameter of the in/outputs on the pump. For drains I would use 1". Are you doing Herbie drains?

[mark]

A single 1" drain is good for ~600gph and a 1.5" for around 1200gph (remembering if planning a Herbie, the second drain is normally dry and only flows in the emergency situation).

If doing a Herbie, me, I'd go 1" return and considering it's a 45g, probably just 2x1" drains if not planning on your return pump contributing significantly to the displays flow. 2x1.5" if you don't mind a bit of flow through your sump.

[Parker]

Quick question, do herbies flow faster then typical drains due to them operating at full syphon?

Does the 600 / 1200 gph hold true?