How do u feel about spray bars??

I have a 48" tank and I was thinking DIY a spray bar with black PVC from savko.com
The spray bar the length of the tank with holes facing forward and downward for a more even flow.... Over the locline return on one end of the tank.

Any do's or do nots

Suggestions?

Size of holes, locations??
Thanks for all help!

 

Ive heard good things about spray bars, however I just bought a sea swirl. You might ant to take a look into them. That combined with my vortech my tank has great flow. I know they are expensive but just shop around for a used one. I got mine for $60.

 

I would love to have a vortec but it's a little out if my price range.

 

I have a spray bar made out of PVC and it is great the water comes from sump and gets sprayed in different directions throughout the tank it really makes sure that the water flow is that extra amount and nothings settling around.
I have about 12 different holes arouund thoughout it, just get a good pump and it should be good.

I just tried to find a picture of someone elses http://www.reef-geeks.com/forums/diy-geeks/2625-do-yourself-spray-bar.html

ill take some pictures of my spray bar tomorrow for you if your still interested

 

I have used them, the smaller bore type that come with cannister filters
they are good IMO for creating surface movement and spreading the flow about

they do require some maintenance after a while, in that coraline tends to grow over the holes and can easily clog them leaving the water exiting more strongly from the unclogged ones

I found a toothpick was required every few weeks or so to clear the coraline once the tank had started to really mature

not a major drawback IMO, but something to be aware of and watch out for

Steve

 

Thanks for all the help guys.... Keep it coming I want to build in a few days.