Ardo's 150 Gallon Cube

Yes, There is a 1" Gate valve.

 

in regards to your main pumps union and shut off valve, the union is above the valve.




it looks as if there is enough space between the output side of the pump and valve to put a union, also, inserting a valve on the input side of the pump prior to the union that is already there. doing this will allow you to take the pump out for maintenance with minimal water loss. basically have both unions next to the pump on the input and output.


in regards to the main tanks drain the flow is being restricted by having the line point upwards at the T above the sump



placing a double female connection between the T and the bulkhead will allow the line to straighten out to provide better flow and lessen the strain of the bulkhead.

call it constructive criticism to limit future problems

 

I decided not to put a valve prior to the pump so I didn't restrict anymore water to the pump. When I need to change pump I just drain the water out of the pump side of the sump. which pulls all the water out of the pump since I have it a little higher than the intake in the sump.

The T on the drain side it tilted so the main pressure form the drain is forced to the skimmer pump. Than anything the skimmer cannot handle will flow to the 1.5 drain to the sump drain. It's hard to tell but the flex PVC was actually curved that way so the is no pressure on the bulkhead. Since my return pump is just for flow to the skimmer and sump the 1.5" drain is actually overkill.

My response is not to argue your constructive criticism, but to explain more about my reason for the design. Thanks for the input.

Ardo

 

I absolutely love cubes. It make for a much better aquascape IMO

 

Here are some updated photos of my tank. They were with my phone, but it seems to take the exact colors. Also I'm on my third week of dosing Brightwells MB7.

 

what kind of sand did you use? and where did you get it from?

 

It's a bare bottom so there is no sand. Only in the sump.

 

Had the camera out and caught this picture of my mandarin

 

SUCH A GORGEOUS FISH!!!! Awesome pic

 

Tank has been up almost a year. Here are some updated photos