Number of overflows? Circulation config. question

[Reef Developer]

Been searching the forums but can't find anything (maybe I'm not looking too hard). Basically, is there anything saying you can't have 1 large bulkhead/overflow?

I have a 50gal., and want to minimize the number of holes that I'm going to drill in the back. I know the risk is if it gets clogged, you'd have an issue. Not sure how likely this is though. Here's what I'm thinking for a configuration:

For the sump- 1- 2" overflow, 2- 3/4" returns
Closed loop- 1- 2" intake, 3-3/4" returns

Note that my throughput from the sump will be throttled down since I'll have a closed loop.

Thoughts?

TIA, Kevin

 

[jag1979]

i think you should do a smaller overflow for the sump and only 1 return for the sump

 

[Reef Developer]

So maybe 1- 1-1/2" overflow and a 1/2" return for the sump....thinking the overflow should be larger to minimize gurgling. Still planning to use a durso.

Anyone else with thoughts on my configuration and how "dangerous" it is to have only 1 overflow. BTW, when I say overflow, I mean a bulkhead with the screen and nothing else (don't want to take the extra space).


TIA,
Kevin