Replacing Sump Bulkhead

[emp111]

I need to replace my bulkhead that is installed in sump that my return pump is attached to. I would assume I need to drain that section of sump. My question is would I just leave the power heads in my display tank on for oxygen until repair is done? and what about the sump?





Thanks

 

[ClownMan727]

I would suggest you make sure you everything you need before starting the project. Yes, drain the water in the sump to below the bulkhead and replace. How long do you think that would take you? The power heads in the display should be good for a few hours.

 

[emp111]

Thanks for your reply Clown Man 727 actually all my fittings to the external return pump have all been glued and ready I just need time for the pvc pipe from the return pump to tie into the bulkhead with the pvc primer and glue to dry. I would say a few hours. what are your thoughts?


Thanks

 

[ClownMan727]

No problem. PVC cement cures really fast to PVC. It takes a little longer to cure to the bulkhead. Make sure you hold the PVC in the bulk head until you can't move it then hold for for a bit longer just to be sure. Have you used PVC cement before?

 

[emp111]

Thanks for your reply Clown Man 727 actually all my fittings to the external return pump have all been glued and ready I just need time for the pvc pipe from the return pump to tie into the bulkhead with the pvc primer and glue to dry. I would say a few hours. what are your thoughts?

 

[Sk8r]

I wouldn't glue the bulkhead connector itself, with gasket and all, simply because it might not be the only time you have to replace this connector. A new bulkhead connector can weep over a grain of sand or muck that's gotten into the gasket: be clean; and if you do get a little-little-little weeping, just wrap a towel around the connector until it stops: it often will, on its own, as the gasket settles. Good luck. Should go fast. TIghten on gasket as much as a fairly athletic woman can do bare-handed. No wrench.

 

[emp111]

I have used pvc glue many times without having leaks. The way my sump is built that last return section can be drained without having the first to sections (my overflow and refugium section) drain at all. Do I keep those areas circulating as well with a power head?


Thanks

 

[ClownMan727]

No, you don't need to keep your sump circulating while you make the fix. If you install the bulk head correctly your won't have any weep. This is a very simple job so don't over think it to much.

 

[ClownMan727]

I wouldn't glue the bulkhead connector itself, with gasket and all,


What are you talking about? Gluing the bulkhead nut?

 

[emp111]

No I do know not to glue that portion. I am just gluing the pvc pipe that has a union from my return pipe to the female portion of the bulkhead that's it.

 

[ClownMan727]

I would wipe as much excess glue as possible and run some carbon for a few days too. Just to be safe.