sump question

ny rangers

New member
I have a question concerning my 50 gallon aquarium. My pump pushes 700 g.p.h. My plumbing including my bulkheads are all 1". The problem I am having is that it seems as though my overflow is not draining enough water to keep up with my pump even with my ball valve completely open. Do I need a second overflow to drain more water in order that I can keep my out flow ball valve completely open? I do not want to ruin my new pump by not having the ball valve all the way open. Thanks
 
I am no expert on bulkheads and plumbing like this but I may have an idea.You have a 1'' bulkhead that I am guessing is rated at 600 gph.Try a 1'' double bulkhead or maybe a 1 1/2" single.Maybe get a bigger ball valve?Just thoughts.Steven
 
If you don't have it already. Install a ball valve on the return line for your return pump. You don't need that much volume through your sump. It is recommended that you run about 3 to 5X tank volume through your sump. For your 50 gal that would be 150 to 250 gph. Use the ball valve to restrict your flow from the return pump. Your problem will most likely be solved.
Don't forget to factor in Headloss into your pump volume calculations. Use the headloss calculator on the main page to see how much volume your pump will lose for your individual circumstances.

If you find that you need additional circulation in the display tank then use powerheads or a closed loop system to achieve the additional circulation.
 
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