Return Pump question?

[AC2020x]

Hey, I have two questions-

Firstly on my overflow should I just using normal tubing on my overflow box to transfer water to my sump? How do I keep the tubing leak free and well attached to the overflow?

2nd- on my return pump do I just use normal tubing that fits my mag 7 pump? Also what are some good ways of keeping the return tube near the surface of the water? If I have a power failure- the water will create a siphon back into my sump correct? What are some good ways of solving this problem?

Thanks alot
-AC

 

[rallysman]

I always use rigid PVC from the overflow to the sump and from the pump to the tank. I just used 3 90 degree fittings to get the water from the outside to the inside, then drill a small hole right below the water surface so the siphon breaks there when the power fails.

 

[dr_sudz]

you want to use PVC for both drain and return pump. Only fill the tank and sump with enough water to prevent water from spilling over when off by filling the tank then the sump via the tank drain. Just use a PVC solvent glue with primer make sure the pieces are well glued and you wont have a problem.

EDIT: drill a syphon break to prevent back syphoning ether just above the water line or just below

 

[AC2020x]

IS PVC expensive? I feel like it would be alot harder to work with than some type of tubing? Would some type of Flex tubing with a clamp work just as well?

 

[rallysman]

PVC is about as cheap as you can get. It's a bit more difficult to install initially but it's more reliable and easier to maintain.

 

[mr.reef24]

use clamps on the ends of all connections to keep tubing snug on all inlets and out lets, use check valve for your mag 7 outflow so if power goes off the check valve stops water from back siphoning. And use flex tubing that screws into your outflow pvc pipe to direct your waters return back into the tank.

mr.reef24

 

[AC2020x]

can you show me an example of what kind of check valve you are talking about or where I could get one?

 

[Myteemouse]

Check valves work good till they get algae or something in them just drill the hole right below the surface of the water in your return line and you will not back siphon..

 

[mr.reef24]

agreed ^ but check valves are reliable if you get them from a good source never had a issue and when power failed the valve stuck in there and worked here it is;

http://www.marinedepot.com/plumbing_parts_fittings_ball_check_gate_valves-ap.html

mr.reef24

 

[rallysman]

I'm afraid of check valves. There is more of a chance of them failing, or even leaking, than there is by using a hole (or 2 if you're paranoid. Plus, they're a hell of a lot more expensive lol.