Return line size

[jaws7777]

View attachment 1243459

I'm thinking for a setup like mine in the picture above. I didn't glue any of the internal joints. If I ever wanted to pop the whole assembly off and change it, which I've done numorous times, I would have to drain the tank down below the bulkhead level. However, with my ball valves, I simply turn the pump off, close the ball valve and pop it off.

I see what your saying about your return/bulkhead Didnt know Lukemitchell return was set up the same way.

If his return isnt then the ball valve really wouldnt serve a purpose that i could think of thats why i thought the siphon break and check valves would be a better choice

 

[DN328]

I would also think removing fittings above the water would be easier. Hence, Id want it to drain as much as possible to the sump.

Also, you'd want your return set-up in such a way to handle when the return pump is off.

 

[Fish Tank Travis]

I would also think removing fittings above the water would be easier. Hence, Id want it to drain as much as possible to the sump.

Also, you'd want your return set-up in such a way to handle when the return pump is off.

I agree, but with the design I pictured above, that's not really possible. You're not supposed to drill a tank within 4" of any edge, so I had to have my bulkhead lower and then come up toward the surface for the siphon break holes. YOu would need to drain about 40-50 gallons to take it off while the pump is off. Or, you could just close the valve and take it off whenever you want. I have my returns coming through the back because I keep fire eels and want the whole tank sealed.

 

[DN328]

I agree, but with the design I pictured above, that's not really possible. You're not supposed to drill a tank within 4" of any edge, so I had to have my bulkhead lower and then come up toward the surface for the siphon break holes. YOu would need to drain about 40-50 gallons to take it off while the pump is off. Or, you could just close the valve and take it off whenever you want. I have my returns coming through the back because I keep fire eels and want the whole tank sealed.

Roger that, and that makes sense Travis for your situation. Just wanted to make a PSA - public service announcement for "sump safety" lol

 

[Fish Tank Travis]

Roger that, and that makes sense Travis for your situation. Just wanted to make a PSA - public service announcement for "sump safety" lol

Yeah, I have my setup exactly how you explained. During water changes, or if I lose power, my sump can handle all of the extra volume that drains down from the tank. I always leave my return and emergency overflow valves fully open, unless I have a reason to do some work on the overflows/returns outside of a water change.