Manifold or independent pump for accessories

[roostertech]

I'm torn between doing a manifold off the return pump or use independent pumps for reactors.

Manifold reduces number of electrical wires, but adds a bunch of pipe, gate valve etc. One pump to run them all.

Independent pumps give more constant flow rate to the reactors and if I have to adjust flow rate on main pump it won't affect reactors.

Thoughts?

 

[thegrun]

I prefer the manifold for my tanks with quality gate valves. Less equipment to maintain, less energy used. I set up the main tanks flow once and have never felt compelled to change it.

 

[CStrickland]

I didn't use the manifold that came with my used tank. But I'm not a big fan of reactors. I think a big factor is how many things you plan to run. Like, the guy that sold me the tank had uv, and biopellets, and a planted fuge; all stuff I'll not likely ever use.

 

[James77]

You listed the pros and cons already....comes down to choice. Both work, both have their problems.

My personal preference is towards the main pump running it all. It is almost never that you need to adjust flow on the main pump. The added pipe and valves are really not all that much more than you would have if there were an independent pump.

Edit: As thegrun said...use quality valves. It makes all the difference. Ball valves from Lowes will drive you nuts.

 

[roostertech]

You listed the pros and cons already....comes down to choice. Both work, both have their problems.

My personal preference is towards the main pump running it all. It is almost never that you need to adjust flow on the main pump. The added pipe and valves are really not all that much more than you would have if there were an independent pump.

Edit: As thegrun said...use quality valves. It makes all the difference. Ball valves from Lowes will drive you nuts.

Are Spears gate valve any good?

http://www.pvcfittingsonline.com/valves/pvc-gate-valves.html

 

[WaReefer458]

On my next tank I'll be running a manifold off a separate pump. I plan on running multiple reactors and a denitrator that will all be low flow but I want to segregate it from my main return. It'll more than likely be 3-5 3/8" barbs so I can just run flex hose to whatever I need

 

[Breadman03]

Spears are good. I run both ball and gate valves on my manifold. The ball valves are for on/off, and the gates allow me to not need to readjust the flow after maintenance.