What would you do?

I am piping my new sump and pump in and have a question as to which way to go here. I am coming off of my pump with 4 connections, 2 for the returns, 1 for the skimmer and 1 for a phosban reactor. All will have valves all over the place so I can control flow and the main pump is an Iwaki 100.

I have two ways to get the four outputs from the pump...one way is a 1 to 4 manifold and the other is a Tee and a 4 way Tee.

So my question is this...Which one would you do? I am attaching pictures of each scenario...I am also trying to avoid too many elbows in each connection....max 2...some 0.

 

You know CC, I've always built my own "manifolds" but I'd like to try one redibuilt like the one you have here.
Don't know, but something about one ballvalve controlling 4 lines? Of course I have ballvalves closer to the equipment though(ie. phos reactor, ca reactor, fuge, etc) which I'm sure you plan on to.
If your lift is calculated to your pump specs, I'd do the manifold. Don't forget to factor in your elbows like I always do!!
(where did you get that manifold?)

 

I prefer sending raw or overflow water to my skimmer rather than water that has been through the sumpand ready for return. You catch more organics that way.

 

I have ball valves for every other line and return in the system so I can fine tune everything. Not just a ball valve before the 4 lines...so a ball valve will be after each line also. I just put one there as "in case". I almost have too many ball valves...but I rather have them then not have them.

I got the manifold from Buy flexible pvc pipe at FlexPVC.com PVC pipe, hose, & pvc fittings online @ wholesale discount prices (flexable) They have pretty much anything you need and the prices are great!

 

Anyone else have an opinion on which fittings to go with...I am torn here.

What is the formula for calculating pumps/pipe with elbows for your returns?

 

Anyone?

 

Not that I like recommending other sites but Reef Central has a very good calculator on their home page along the left side.

 

im no expert on plumbing but i would go with the first one... seems like it might have more even flow?
dont know for sure though...?

 

Yea...the first one may distribute it better....the second one looks like the top most one will get a lot of flow and then the others not so much.

I guess the first one it is then....that was my original plan.