Pump size for sump

[JK47]

Ok, so I'll take a look at the jebao and laguna line of pumps. Any recommendations on plumbing size, or should 1/2" pipes be enough?

I would not use 1/2" lines for anything above a planted tank. I would suggest you go with 3/4" or 1" for returns from the pump. The overflows depends on if you have dual lines or not. If you have two exit lines they will need to be minimum 1" & 1.5" if running open channel (wide open, gravity fed).

 

[Fish Tank Travis]

And, you just answered my question on the returns as I was typing

Lol, yeah, I have both pumps in my sump and each is separately hooked up to its own bulkhead drilled into the back of my tank.

 

[DN328]

Also, how many actual returns will you want in the tank? Let's say you wanted four; I would just keep the outlet diameter of the pump you plan to use. I would then T it to two smaller diameter returns like 3/4" loclines.

This assumes you went with two pumps.