Plumbing - flexible pvc vs regular pvc?

Pro/con of each?

I would think running the flexible pvc would minimize having to use elbows and help keep the gph up right?

First time plumbing a tank so any input is appreciated.

Thanks


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I like the flexable pvc "pex pipe". I just plumbed my tank and used regular pvc. Dont think pex would have bent the way I wanted in the tight quarters. I think unless your overflow pipes come straight out of the bottom of the tank and the sump is directly below it you would eventually have to use a 90 or 45.

 

If you are talking about using "spa flex" I say go for it. That's what I used to plumb my tank

 

I used Spa-Flex PVC extensively in my 185g build; it helped to reduce noise caused by pump vibration and water flow by smoothing the flow. I used the heavy duty PVC glue with all the Spa-Flex connections, but the HD glue is not necessary, but good, sound plumbing fabrication is.

My only negative comment would be it takes longer for the joints to dry and cure, other than that, it is good stuff!

 

Other than having a more "professional" appearance, I can't think of any real pros to using rigid pvc pipe.

Cons: Must be cut to fit and glued together. Can't be disassembled for cleaning, moving, etc without more cutting and gluing. Elbows create resistance, thus lowering flow.

Pros for flex tubing: Flexibility- can be routed/installed without fittings and glue. Can be moved or removed without disassembly. No elbows.

Cons: None that I can think of.

 

Wow that looks more flexible that I thought!

 

I'm usinga 10ft piece of SpaFlex hose on my return now.

But as Gavinson has said, if the space is tight, like under a cabinet and in close quarters, you may also need some rigid 90's as well.

Ya know the make 2 shapes of a 90 PVC? ONe is real tight, and one is a smooter arc.

 

Flex pipe is quite a bit more expensive than rigid PVC, but it definitely makes water run with less resistance, and noise can be reduced.

 

So can you fairly easily get the bends you need with flex or do I need a Heat gun?

 

Here's an idea of what I have to plumb. That's a 6ft 210 and a 75gal sump down below.

Fowl - skimmer on the left return pump in the middle and fuge on the right. Should be minimal plumbing I hope