How to slow pump flow question.

[mginani]

Hi, I am a newbie so sorry for the basic question. I just set-up a 90 gallon saltwater tank (48"x18"). Have added the rock and sand and RODI water. Plumbing is complete with a sump below. I have turned on the pump and it appears to pump faster than the 1" durso drain can keep up with. My return line is flexible tubing. The distance from the pump to the tank pump exit is 4.5 ft. The line is 3/4" and goes from my pump through the bulkhead, makes 1 90 degree turn through the PVC and out two exits. Maximum flow is 700 GPH. I bought the set-up used, so I assume there is a way to make the system work. What is recommended to slow the flow down? Should I install some sort of valve and just adjust? Am I better off just getting a slower pump?

Thanks!

 

[chamjack]

You have the right idea. Put a valve on the exit side of your pump. You can then turn it to limit the flow as you desire. Never restrict the intake side of the pump because you can damage the pump by doing so. Unless your current pump is grossly oversized for your return, the valve will solve your issue.

 

[gone fishin]

I would just add that a gate valve is the proper valve for throttling flow. good luck

 

[skykingcory]

Gate valve on the exit side is definately the way to go. I had one on my used tank with bigger pump. It was closed so much that I bought a smaller pump when the first bigger one went out and it was much quieter. What size of a pump is it?

 

[sleepydoc]

You can also put a 'T' with a valve in the return line from the pump and have some water recirculate in the sump this is also useful if you're planning on running some media reactors now or in the future.

As mentioned above, you may want to consider a smaller pump too - a larger pump means wasted watts which you not only have to pay the electric company for, but can also add extra heat to your tank that you have to dissipate somehow.

 

[EllieSuz]

A simple ball valve was recommended to me when I set up my tank and it allows me to adjust the flow as needed. It was simple to install. If I could do it, believe me, anyone can. They are available at Home Depot, etc.

 

[rerr001]

Ball Valve is the way to go

 

[mginani]

Thanks everyone. By exit side I assume you above the bulkhead?

 

[blanden.adam]

By exit we just mean the output side of your pump, so you can just cut the flex tubing after it leaves the pump and before it attaches to your bulkhead, and use a gate valve with hose barb fittings (they sell these, it's 1 piece and really useful).

Also note, be careful with how much flow you put through your tank with a 1" standpipe. The maximum flow it can take is 600gph, and you want to be sure to leave yourself some headroom in case a snail, some algae, or really anything cuts down on your maximum flow. I guess my point is, turn your flow down until your standpipe can keep up, then turn it down some more.