PVC vs. Flexible Tubing

[fernalfer]

Ok guys i'm almost at the stage of plumbing my sump. I have a dual Overflow 120 gallon Tank. I like the clean look of PVC but like the ease of Flexible Tubing.

Below i have posted a video of Flexible Tubing Setup. Please go to 4:30 of the video to see the design.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XgGamcu5C7g&list=PL4ECFAE0142FF5BA5&index=41

Now i like how easy and simple that is. Is their any reason why i should use hard PVC instead? Seems matching the pieces, glueing, and with possibly having to use T- pieces or 90's will reduce flow seems like more of a hassle.

Please chime in with comments for or against either. Need help making my decision.

 

[Sisu]

I'm assuming you mean flexible vinyl tubing, so my answers are based on that:

- You loose much more flow with vinyl tubing primarily because of the barbed fittings it requires.
- vinyl tubing is generally clear, allowing for algae growth in the lumen, further reducing flow.
- With time vinyl tubing hardens and is no longer flexible, so you don't have the advantage you started with.
- can be prone to kinking unless you get the reinforced tubing which is much less flexible.
- ? more prone to failure at the joints

PVC
- a bit harder to work with;
- better flow for a given size
- ? more expensive. Depends on your fittings, etc.
- Is available in flexible forms (spa flex, ultra flex) that give the flexibility while maintaining the advantages of PVC
- has more options

IME PVC is the superior option. I wouldn't let the cost dissuade you; it's a nominal increase for PVC

 

[RayAllen3422]

Much less chance of failure with PVC. I have heard stories or flex tubing coming off or cracking. A friend of mines dog actually pulled the tubing off and flooded his living room. I rare case but wouldn't have happened with PVC.

 

[fernalfer]

I like PVC but if you watch the you tube video above and see his setup just looks so easy and simple.

 

[kmbyrnes]

OK so I checked out the video. The flex tubing used there is not going to be as sturdy as PVC. In addition you will LOSE flow if you use the tubing shown in the video. There are no Tee's or 90's, but the ribbed construction will cause turbulence, reducing flow.
PVC can be intimidating if you have never used it, but it is actually very simple.
I suggest dropping $10 on some tube and fittings, and practice gluing and fitting. The stuff is so cheap, you can toss your first effort, Then when you do your final plumbing it will end up looking nice and clean.

 

[gone fishin]

If your interested in some flexible tubing look at using some spa flex hose. I used some on my plumbing to avoid using so many 90's. It is not as flexible as the vinyl tubing but it can be glued directly to pvc fittings. I got mine at either home depot or lowes, Good luck.

 

[fernalfer]

I believe i'm going to go with the ULTRA Flex PVC from Marinedepot. I have heard nothing but good reviews about it and people are saying it is even more flexible then Regular Flex PVC. The vinyl Tubing choice is out for me.

 

[JMorris271]

https://flexpvc.com/TechArticles/PipeVsHose.shtml

You can get flex pvc pipe and use regular pvc fitting with no barb fittings needed. I have used it before for 15 yrs and its great.

 

[fernalfer]

https://flexpvc.com/TechArticles/PipeVsHose.shtml

You can get flex pvc pipe and use regular pvc fitting with no barb fittings needed. I have used it before for 15 yrs and its great.

Hey you have the same tank, return pump and protein skimmer as me.

this is the pipe i'll be getting: http://www.marinedepot.com/Ultra_Fl...Tubing-Plumbing_Parts-FT1383-FIFTTUFP-vi.html

How does your protein skimmer work for your 120? I'm just doing dual dorso overflows. Keeping it simple.

 

[JMorris271]

So far it is doing just fine. It takes the gunk out.
That few Marine Depot sells looks great