PVC or Flex tubing

  • We are currently upgrading MFK. thanks! -neo

BMUR

Feeder Fish
MFK Member
Jan 4, 2011
84
1
8
Canada
going to starting buying some stuff for my sump i will be building,just seeing what people perfer. the sump will be directly behind the stand in a walk behind room. any advice would be great:tropicalf
 
The only thing I like about pvc is that it is rigid and can look very professional.
Tubing, I use the braided so it doesn't kink, has better flow and no turbulence at the fittings. I think it is quieter also. Its also easier to move around and work on. I prefer tubing. You won't know until you try both for awhile. Have fun.
 
I like spa-flex.
 
i personally love using the flex because its sooo much easier to work with, but i like the look of pvc like posted above it looks more pro,
 
flex tubing obvious is great. It helps water flow better, quieter, easier to work with and move around BUT .... MUCH MUCH MORE EXPENSIVE compared to PVC especially AT BIG SIZE !!!
 
Spa-flex is good, but not very flexible...

Right now I am using tubing that was designed for washing machines. Nothing has died yet, the stuff is sturdy, and more flexible than spa-flex.

Some spa-flex you can use PVC glue on, and I did just that with the first go at building my sump...then switched to this stuff.
 
in my experience a good mix of both is probably a good solution. I use spa flex for the return because it doesnt restrict as much water with less joints, which means less work on the pump. Id use PVC for the drain to prevent noise. The more angles you have the better control you have over noise. its a good idea to think about the distance the water has to travel as well. Keep gravity on your side, but tame it enough so you dont have a water fall in your back room. good luck !
 
MonsterFishKeepers.com