I have a quick question regarding the size of a return line from a return pump . I'm going to be using a ecotech vectra m2 which has 1 inch outlet. I picked up my new aquarium(120g) today which is drilled for a 3/4 bulk head . Will this cause me any issues or should i try and get the hole drilled to use a 1 inch bulk head . Thanks
return line size ?
- Thread starter RiceRocket27
- Start date
I don't know why they do that. Imo 3/4" is to restrictive for that size of a tank. Back pressure causes more head height there fore cutting back on efficiency. When I've run I to that I just plumbed the return over the back.
Some pictures would be helpful for a more specific suggestion how I'd run the return. Short of that, and if you're ok with a larger size I'd go with two options. I'm using an ecotech L1 for closed loop circulation btw.
1) drill another hole for 3/4" bulkhead if it can look symmetrical. Split your return with a T to two separate 3/4" locline returns.
Or
2) make the existing 3/4" bulkead into 1.25" or 1.5". Keep single return or split if you want. Most DC pumps Im seeing have more 1.25" ouput including the second generation ecotech.
Both options are good future proof imo.
Think i am going to run the return over the back like you said , have to trim one of my lids but the alternative is cutting the hole bigger and reworking my sump because the hole for the return would allow to much water to siphon back. The tank was not suppose to have a hole drilled for the return as i was going to run the piping over the back from the start.