Return line size

[Lukemitchell]

Hi
Im running 2 jebao dcp5000 pumps for a 180 gallon setup (tank and sump) and I need to know what size adapter to use on the pump and what size return line to use ?
I'm planning to turn the tank over 6 times so that's 1100gallons (5000litres).
So if anyone could help that would be great.
Thanks

 

[Fish Tank Travis]

I use the largest adapter mine came with an 1" vinyl tube for the return lines with my two DCP 8000's. I would think the same would work well for you.

 

[Lukemitchell]

O

I use the largest adapter mine came with an 1" vinyl tube for the return lines with my two DCP 8000's. I would think the same would work well for you.

ok thanks
So I could turn the pumps down aswell as there will be enough flow through it ?

 

[Fish Tank Travis]

O
ok thanks
So I could turn the pumps down aswell as there will be enough flow through it ?

Yes, the DCP pumps are adjustable. Also, when you turn them down they actually use less power.

 

[Lukemitchell]

Yes, the DCP pumps are adjustable. Also, when you turn them down they actually use less power.

Should I put 2 ball valves on each return pipe to adjust flow aswell or is there any need ?

 

[Fish Tank Travis]

There is no need for a ball valve to control flow, because the controller will do that for you. However, I do recommend putting a ball valve on each pump so that you can close it off for maintenance if you ever need to. For instance, if you are going to do work on the internal part of the return line, you can valve it off and not worry about excess water coming back down the return line and overflowing the sump.

 

[Lukemitchell]

There is no need for a ball valve to control flow, because the controller will do that for you. However, I do recommend putting a ball valve on each pump so that you can close it off for maintenance if you ever need to. For instance, if you are going to do work on the internal part of the return line, you can valve it off and not worry about excess water coming back down the return line and overflowing the sump.

Ye good point and another question I've got a over flow box that has 3 3/4 inch bulk heads that drop 3ft to the sump, would I need ball valves for that as if I need to stop flow I can just let it over flow till it stops or lift the box up ?

 

[Fish Tank Travis]

Ye good point and another question I've got a over flow box that has 3 3/4 inch bulk heads that drop 3ft to the sump, would I need ball valves for that as if I need to stop flow I can just let it over flow till it stops or lift the box up ?

I recommend putting a valve on all overflow and return lines as a just in case option. You may never need them, but if you do, they are there.

 

[jaws7777]

I recommend putting a valve on all overflow and return lines as a just in case option. You may never need them, but if you do, they are there.

Why would he need a ball valve on the return lines ? Once he shuts the pumps off the lines will drain..id think a siphon break would be best

 

[Fish Tank Travis]

Why would he need a ball valve on the return lines ? Once he shuts the pumps off the lines will drain..id think a siphon break would be best

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.