Need help with plumbing!

[elbereth]

I'd like to add a hydroponics setup above my tank similar to the one pictured here (www.monsterfishkeepers.com/forums/threads/diy-overhead-filter.663937/) but I'm a noob when it comes to plumbing so I need help choosing fittings.

1. Completely newbie question first: are threaded bulkheads removable? (Yes I tried googling it but couldn't find a straight answer.) I'd like to be able to swap planters if I ever need to without having to buy new bulkheads.

2. Initially I thought of using vinyl hosing for the inflow and outflow but I don't know where to get a bulkhead that I could attach vinyl to directly. Something like this: www.industrialspec.com/shop/manifolds-panel-mount-bulkheads/panel-mount-bulkhead-plastic/pbh-series-multi-barbed-acetal-panel-mount-bulkhead.html
None of the hardware or aquarium stores I know sell anything like it though. Can I just use something like this instead and attach it to the plastic planter box using silicone? I know it won't be as secure as a bulkhead but would it do? (Yes I know this won't be removable then but considering it'd be much cheaper than a bulkhead + adaptor I don't mind.)
www.jlaquatics.com/bulkhead-barb-adapter-1-inch.html
Or would it be worth it to spend on a bulkhead + hose adaptor?

3. My second option would be to use PVC instead of hosing. If I want to be to remove the pipes, I'd need double-threaded bulkheads yes?

Thanks in advance!

 

[jjohnwm]

1. Threaded bulkheads are easily removeable, but if they have been in use for any length of time you might need to replace the gaskets when you re-use them. Be certain that when you install them the gasket side is on the inside of the tank, and then tighten or loosen only the threaded collar on the outside while holding the body of the bulkhead motionless so the gasket is not damaged. You can usually get away with just using silicone to replace the gasket if it is necessary.

2. You can get bulkheads that have barbed hose fittings on one side, or you can use double-threaded ones and then just screw in the hose adaptors, which you can buy very cheaply at Home Depot or similar stores. I usually do that, and use teflon tape on the threads of the adaptor before screwing it in to ease installation and insure waterproofness.

3. I don't use PVC so can't answer this one. Flexible hosing is so much easier to work with, both during and after installation, that I just don't see the point of rigid PVC. Lots of folks like it, but it is way more work to put the system together and then you have no give or flexibility if you need to make changes (unless you buy and use unions, which take up space and increase costs).

 

[BIG-G]

Use pvc build the planters identical with the bulkhead placement and use unions to disconnect.
You can add ball valves anywhere you need to prevent water from leaking if have to disconnect a union.
You can also use flex pvc if needed.

 

[dr exum]

you can get supplies at home depot or bulk reef supply / marine depot if you want nicer plumbing -

they even have colored pvc -

i’d maybe suggest buying some smaller 1” or so pieces 90’s straight pipe and test glue / play with it to get comfortable

pvc is harder but looker nicer IMO -

also the glue -

there’s a variety - primer / no primer

i put a pic of some madness i recently completed

 

[elbereth]

Thank you all.
jjohnwm , thank you so much for answering all my questions in such detail. That was incredibly helpful! I'll try visiting my local Home Depot and see what they have in store. I looked on their website but maybe they don't list all those small parts.

 

[duanes]

As stated above, use Unions between all connections, this allows for easy disconnection , and re-connection without twisting bulkheads.

I usually use at least two between pipe length ends, one near the bulkhead, and one near the opposite end (such as near the pump).
Pumps need regular maintenance and so need to be detached more often.

If a pump outflow is threaded, a union is usually my first option.
Double threaded bulkheads offer options, which is always a good thing.

 

[elbereth]

Thanks duanes . I'm still leaning towards vinyl hosing for this project but this will certainly be useful when I plumb my sump.

I've been looking at pipe sizes here: www.monsterfishkeepers.com/forums/threads/pipe-sizing-charts-and-flow-rates.205645/
The powerhead I'll be using has a GPH of 158 so I'll need at least a 3/4" bulkhead according to the chart on that page. Is there any benefit in going up to 1" for the outflow "just in case"?

 

[elbereth]

Hmm... actually after looking into recommended flow rates for hydroponics, I think 158 GPH would be way too high. Guess I'll have to get a new powerhead.
My question above still stands though: any advantages to a bigger outflow pipe? Would it be more silent for example?

 

[elbereth]

Bump. Anyone know if a bigger outflow would be more silent?

 

[BIG-G]

Bump. Anyone know if a bigger outflow would be more silent?

The trick to quite plumbing it to keep air out of the drain line and then have it smoothly flow into the sump.
Using a Herbie or bean animal style drain (so that the main drain is a full siphon with no air being sucked in with the water)and having the out flow into the sump at or below water level so there is no splashing in the sump.
Edit: For an overhead sump this will still be the case only the tank and sump are reversed. The overflow design would be coming from the sump and returning to the tank.