Converting a return to drain???

[BONDO]

I just picked up a mag drive 24 and I'm wondering if i went to big for the overflows. I'm thinking to compensate that i could turn the return pipe into a drain, then plumb a spray bar for the return. Is this possible or just a pipe dream??? Thoughts?
Sent from my DROID4 using MonsterAquariaNetwork App

 

[BONDO]

The tank is a 210 with two 1" drains and 3/4 returns. My friend came up with the idea to convert the return into a drain. I was thinking of adding a hang on overflow to compensate that kind of flow, but the idea of not having to do that would be nice.

Sent from my DROID4 using MonsterAquariaNetwork App

 

[imusuallyuseless]

Possible but might run into issues depending on how current returns are set up. Have you considered adding a t to your return line which can redirect some excess flow straight back to your sump?

 

[aldiaz33]

Turning your 3/4 returns into drains will definitely help; you may still need to valve it back or return some excess flow to your sump via a T off the return line.

If I were you I would return the Mag Drive (it's a horribly inefficient pump) and get a Laguna Max Flo 2400. The Mag drive draws 265 watts whereas the Laguna will give you essentially the same flow on only 82 watts. The pump will pay for itself in energy savings pretty quickly.

 

[guano]

Turning your 3/4 returns into drains will definitely help; you may still need to valve it back or return some excess flow to your sump via a T off the return line.

If I were you I would return the Mag Drive (it's a horribly inefficient pump) and get a Laguna Max Flo 2400. The Mag drive draws 265 watts whereas the Laguna will give you essentially the same flow on only 82 watts. The pump will pay for itself in energy savings pretty quickly.

+1

I got a 125 gal with a Laguna max flo 2000 and love it. Look up herbie overflows, theyre super easy to setup and very quite. If your avatar is the tank in question, my setup is very similiar, just smaller. I have two overflows with each one having a 1" and a 3/4" holes that are both used as drains. The 1" is my main drain for each overflow and has a ball valve to adjust/restrict the flow. The 3/4" is used as my emergency drain. The idea is to restrict the flow enough where it does not suck in air and creates a full siphon. Here's a link with great info and pictures about it http://gmacreef.com/herbie-overflow-reef-tank-plumbing-method-basics/

 

[BONDO]

Yep my avatar is my tank. And i will check out that site. Thanks.

Sent from my DROID4 using MonsterAquariaNetwork App

 

[BONDO]

That link is awesome. Definitely gunna herbie my tank this weekend.

Sent from my DROID4 using MonsterAquariaNetwork App

 

[BONDO]

I am going to be adding a return to the sump for just that reason. I want to be able to control the flow just in case the system can't handle what I'm throwing at it.

Sent from my DROID4 using MonsterAquariaNetwork App

 

[BONDO]

Turning your 3/4 returns into drains will definitely help; you may still need to valve it back or return some excess flow to your sump via a T off the return line.

If I were you I would return the Mag Drive (it's a horribly inefficient pump) and get a Laguna Max Flo 2400. The Mag drive draws 265 watts whereas the Laguna will give you essentially the same flow on only 82 watts. The pump will pay for itself in energy savings pretty quickly.

Laguna would be nice now that i see the energy savings. Gunns have to see if i can return it.

Sent from my DROID4 using MonsterAquariaNetwork App

 

[BONDO]

Well they said i could ship it back. The customer rep also said something about a aqueon quietflow?? Have you heard of these, are they good??

Sent from my DROID4 using MonsterAquariaNetwork App