Synergy Reef 16 Inch Overflow and 40 Gallon Tank

[Multiham]

Hoping for some help with getting a 40 gallon tank and sump up and running. I just finished drilling the 40G for the install of the Synergy Reef 16 inch overflow. I am going to purchase the matching Synergy Reef CL-22 Sump so that the plumbing for the overflow is basically plug and play.

My return pump is going to be a Ecotech Vectra M1 DC pump. Here are my questions:

1. How many return lines should I use (1 or 2)
2. Should I drill the tank for the return of simply use an over the top return line?
3. What size return line should I use?

Thank you for your help! This is my first try at putting together a more complicated system.

 

[Zwickm]

I would recommend drilling two 1" or 3/4" returns and running the pump at a low flow rate. That overflow and pump and way more than needed for a tank that size so you'll want to keep it running well under 50%.

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[Multiham]

I would recommend drilling two 1" or 3/4" returns and running the pump at a low flow rate. That overflow and pump and way more than needed for a tank that size so you'll want to keep it running well under 50%.

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Thank you for the help! I picked up the pump, tank, and return pump at a yard sale where the owner completely got out of the hobby. He told me that it was overkill for the tank, but that it would work.

Do have a couple more questions:

1. If the output on the M1 pump is 3/4 inch, should I just use 3/4 inch PVC and T it so I can get 2 return lines?
2. For 3/4 inch return, do you know what size drill bit I want to use to drill holes in tank?
3. What size and type of bulk head would I need to connect this return line?

Thank you!

 

[Zwickm]

I would use whatever the output diameter is on the pump for your return line. It'll reduce the head pressure which will preserve the pump so go with 3/4" if that's what the vectra is.

You may need a 5/8" or 1" drill bit. Make sure to measure the outer diameter of the bulkhead you'll use and go just slightly above that. Just use a standard ABS bulkhead.

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[Multiham]

Where do I want to drill the hole for the return line in relationship to the water level in the tank? Do I want to be slightly above the water level or does it not matter?

Thank you!

 

[USCG CWO]

Oh it matters. If you lose power or shut down the pump for whatever reason the tank will back siphon into the sump. You want the returns high enough so they break siphon so you don't drain the main display and overflow the sump.

 

[mcgyvr]

Oh it matters. If you lose power or shut down the pump for whatever reason the tank will back siphon into the sump. You want the returns high enough so they break siphon so you don't drain the main display and overflow the sump.

Yep you need to make sure you won't back siphon..
That why over the top returns are just easier and have them exit right under the water level..
But you can also drill a few "anti-siphon" holes right under the water level too.. Drill a few so a snail,etc.. can't block one at the wrong time..
And make sure you clean them regularly so algae,etc.. doesn't grow in them/clog the hole..