Best Option for 10 x 6 x 4 Tank?

[Motownr]

Considering two approaches to handling the mechanical filtration:

1. 2 bottom bulkheads (4") that connect to a manifold, then to an external pump. Then to canister and return to tank.

2. External pump sitting 1' above tank on rack with large single intake 1" off bottom of (bare bottom) tank. Pump has check valve below water level.

What would be the Pro / Con of each approach? Is there a better option I should consider? Prefer closed loop system over sump.

Also, for calculating pump head for Option #2, is the vertical head calculated from the bottom of the intake...or from the distance above the tank water level?

Thanks.

 

[David R]

Both options have their pros and cons, but for option two the head height would be calculated from the water level, not the end of the pipe. It doesn't matter if you're sucking water from a foot below the surface or the bottom of the ocean (well, maybe some friction loss in extreme cases!), if your pump is one foot above the water that is what the head will be.

 

[Motownr]

Forgot to mention that it's to be a bare bottom tank.

Would bottom intakes give a cleaner bottom than using 'poop sucker' intake(s)? Or wouldn't it make a difference?