Anyone attempt this with their tank returns.....

[jnc914]

I have an AGA 180 Gallon with corner overflows. It was manufactured in 11/05 and the overflows are like the Mega-flow. I am plumbing it with 1"PVC into my sum, I would like to plumb it with 1" or 1 1/4" PVC for the returns. However, instead of using the 3/4" returns, I was going to plug the return bulkheads and instead build a return almost like a closed loop with the plumbing over the back of the tank w/ multiple outlets into the tanks, thus increasing flow. Has anyone attempted this type of return set up? Pictures would be appreciated if possible. I am weighing my options on the flow of the tank.....should I increase flow with this set up and a Pan-World pressure rated pump, or spend $800.00+ for a tunze 6100 setup with controller? Thanks in advance.

Jason

 

[Spuds725]

I don't think you could replicate what a tunze with wave controllers could accomplish---of course for alot more money.

I'm of the opinion of keeping sump/tank exchange as low as possible-- helps you avoid the problems associated (noise, micobubbles, extra power consumption for a pump)-- if your budget allows I would get the tunze setup--they are supposed to be great.

 

[chrisguy]

IMO I would not do it. The sump should not have a lot of flow through it so for your plan to work you would need a lot of flow to have a manifold (multiple outlets at the top of the tank) provide the flow needed.

Excess flow in the sump can cause lots of noise and/or bubbles.

Either add a closed loop or get the Tunze.

 

[Alarmguy66]

The other problem I see is that this would send the pollutants that the overflow skims right back into the tank, instead of out to the sump to be removed.

 

[jnc914]

Thanks for the input. I will look more closely at the Tunze set up, although I may have to sell my first born to afford it

 

[Crusty Old Shellback]

I'm doing something similar except I'm using a manifold around the preimiter of teh tank w/ 8 outlets currently. I've got 2 return pumps and each one flows into it's own manifold.

I originally had this setup running rotating sprinkler heads but the cost to run a high pressure pump at this time was a bit much so I took the sprinklers off until I can find a good high pressure/low amp draw pump.

I'm currently looking for a pair of baracudda pumps to run my returns as they are low amp draw. I run about 4000 GPH thru a 30 & 90 sump on a 400 G tank.