Need Advice On EVERYTHING!

I have ordered a new custom acrylic 20gal tall, It should be here this week.
This will be a nano reef.
I do not want any mechanicals in the tank.
I am going to set up the skimmer, heater, etc. in a 10gal sump under the tank. I don't want any powerheads, overflows in the tank. I plan on drilling the tank and using adjustable bulkhead fittings.
(Seen Here:http://www.aquaart.com/gfx/Jet w cover.jpg)

My questions involve pipe diameter, placement, etc.
I want two bulkhead fitting just below the water line, for the return to the sump, but need advice on pump size, pipe size, and placement.
I was thinking of doing a "T" or "Y" to connect the two returns, so I have one return pipe. Do I need a standpipe to control noise?
How much current?
Return pump size?
Number of jets?
More questions later....Count on it

 

Im currently setting up the exact same setup as you. 20 gal tank + 10 gal sump / fuge.

3/4" pipes will be just fine. As for the pump between 400 and 500 gals per hour is plenty. If you want to split the return around 500 gals per hour would do the job. I tried it with a Mag 7 and even at 30" of head it was way to strong.

As for the overflow you will need to figure out something for the noise. That is the only question mark left in my head, the darn overflow. Still not sure how to make it. So if you have a plan let me know .

For the placement of you returns. Since you using adjustable bulkheads I would put 1 on each side on the back and adjust them so you dont get any dead spots.

 

I found a website last night where the guy had tried what I was thinking.
Several problems he ran into, the main problem was that the 1" pipe will
flow a lot of water, IF you have head pressure. The way I wanted it and
the way he tried it, it has none. His tank had over-flowed several times
while he was testing. After he modified a few things, he got it not to over-
flow, but it was buttugly,(Large, White PCV Pipe running across his tank.)
and only flowed about 150gph. So I gave in and did a little search and here
is my solution...:-/


I know, I know, Not very DIY of me. But I want to get this thing up and running.

 

I would go with a standpipe for noise reduction!!! Look up Durso standpipe online...It should help ya. I got the info in my reef Aquarium book(vol.3)!

 

How would I incorporate a Durso into the Weir?