Output Size question

[ExoticEctotherms]

Ok....I bought a Laguna 2000 submersible pump (http://www.amazon.com/Laguna-Max-Fl...F8&qid=1364950989&sr=8-1&keywords=laguna+2000) for my 250 gallon pond. I plan on making the wet/dry out of a 40 gallon Rubbermaid container seen here.....(http://www.amazon.com/Rubbermaid-FG353600-Gallon-Container-without/dp/B00282E8O2/ref=pd_sbs_indust_1). I am putting 20 gallons of bio-balls in it with filter pad on top. I am putting this filter above the water level and letting gravity return the water to the pond. The question is, how large of an output will I need to keep up with that pump? I was thinking a 2" output with a ball valve so I can slow down the flow if necessary. Good plan?

 

[guanl23]

I would do 3 x 1" outputs so I could aim the return flow better.

 

[ExoticEctotherms]

That's a pretty good idea. I imagine 3 x 1" outputs would definitely handle the flow.

 

[ExoticEctotherms]

ANyone else have any opinions?

 

[joe jaskot]

1 1/2" output would be plenty.

 

[ExoticEctotherms]

One 1 1/2" output? I'm not doubting you, but that sounds a little light. I tried to apply the info in this thread http://www.monsterfishkeepers.com/forums/showthread.php?205645-Pipe-Sizing-Charts-and-Flow-Rates to my situation, but it is very confusing. If I am reading it right, a single 1 1/2" output would have a flow rate of 1350 GPH...which isn't enough. Three 1" outputs would be 1800 GPH, which is pretty close since a 2000 GPH pump isn't going to actually pump 2000 GPH once you factor in feet of head. Where is CHOMPERS when I need him?!?! Lol...

 

[ExoticEctotherms]

I think I may have answered my own question. Here is a terrifically helpful calculator....http://reefcentral.com/index.php/drainoverflow-size-calc