Plumbing FX5 Return Line?

  • We are currently upgrading MFK. thanks! -neo

Steveo McNello

Plecostomus
MFK Member
Dec 30, 2010
2,009
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53
SW Burbs of Chicago
Hey everyone. With the help of countless people on here I believe I'm ready to begin constructing my reactor. My LAST question is that I was wondering if after the reactor if I could just continue using PVC pipe to get the water back to the tank instead of hose? Hopefully my pictures will help out the explanation...

I drew pictures for my plans so hopefully they're understandable. I am running PVC tubing from the FX5 output valve to the reactor. Then water goes down through the reactor, where two 90 degree elbows will turn the water around and point it back up the top. I will then put a reducer to 1" to run a 1" PVC pipe to the top of the tank, then two more 90 degree elbows to point down into the tank. Then, I was wondering if a vertical spray bar would work? Just drill holes so the water can escape?

Hope I'm not forgetting any key details. My Pbass are ready for some plants. Ask any questions you might need for a response!

Thanks guys! :headbang2

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I've seen it done before, just not on an FX5. It should work just fine as long as you don't restrict the flow too much.
 
Pharaoh;4968709; said:
I've seen it done before, just not on an FX5. It should work just fine as long as you don't restrict the flow too much.

Shouldn't be too bad because the FX5 hose is 1" and the PVC will be 1" as well. So I'm thinking it won't be a problem but with my luck, we'll see haha
 
Steveo McNello;4968903; said:
Shouldn't be too bad because the FX5 hose is 1" and the PVC will be 1" as well. So I'm thinking it won't be a problem but with my luck, we'll see haha

You might want to make the reactor a bit bigger, or be very cautious about the type of fittings that you use. When going from 1" diameter hose to PVC, you can have some restrictions in the adapter sections.
 
Agree, upsize that reactor.
 
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