overflows

i have a 90 gallon and have a design question. will i run into any problems using both holes for overflow and use pvc for returns? i wana run a closed loop for carbon,phos and more flow and other for fuge.

 

Should not as long as you use adjustable valves so you can regulate flow to get the pumps to match... I dont see any major issue going this route

 

Also consider the use of a one-way valve. If your return line is under the water line in your DT, and say the power goes out, it will siphon water from your DT to your sump and possibly overflow onto your floor.

 

I agree, or you could put a small hole in the pipe just above your water line to break any siphon due to a power cut.

 

Wouldn't you drill the hole just below the waterline on the return pipe? I would imagine that the little hole will spew water out with the return pump running.

 

Hmm... so this is what that hole is for.. mine was taped up due to noise of the water when the return was on...
Watching this thread for an answer..

 

lol never knew what that hole was for

 

lol, yup thats what that hole is for I wouldn't tap it unless you have a one way valve somewhere else on that pipe.

You can put it just under the water line if you want but it will siphon a small amount of water out of your tank in a power cut. I just put one on the back of the pipe, the hole is very small and the water coming out of the hole is very minimal and sprays directly onto the glass at the back of my tank (the pipe with hole is almost touching the glass).

 

Careful with the check valves (one-way) they're notorious for getting clogged with algae/calcium precipitate and getting stuck open anyways when your power goes out.

 

Check valves do not work long term in reef tanks, unless you are cleaning them out on a weekly, maybe even daily basis. Even if they do not stick wide open they will slowly leak when you need them to be sealed.

Use the siphon break hole just below the operating water level to stop the system from back siphoning.

On using both holes for drains that is fine, but I am a bit confused, what exactly are you planning on doing with both drains. Having one a closed loop for reactors and stuff, while the other is for the sump/fuge?

Kim