1st time plumbing tank and sump.

[Scallywags]

Starting a 40b with a 20l sump. I have a eshopps M overflow with a VARIOS-2 . I want the overflow in the middle with a return on both sides, but definitely not set in stone. I have read a bunch of peoples setups but still am questioning what I should get. Is 1 inch returns ok, or since I am splitting it should it be smaller? Is there a good link to show Plumbing guidelines?also I havent actually built the sump yet so that is also something I could use help with. Are there things I need to be aware of while setting up a sump to keep in mind for plumbing? Thank you for the help!

 

[Marc88]

For my return setup I wanted returns on both ends also. My advice would be to use more unions than you think you need . I have a Varios 8 and decided to leave the piping at 1 1/4" until the very last second, where its reduced to 3/4" at the return site it works out perfectly. Dont have a tester but I dont believe I've put unnecessary head pressure on the pump. I did oversize my pump for this possibility.

I wouldn't call it a "professional job" but its functional and doesn't leak so it's a win in my book. Just test fit before you glue everything thether. And take your time.

And did I mention using more unions than you think you need? Lol seriously. I've taken it apart a few times and I'm glad i placed them where i did.

Woth opposing returns I also had an issue where the sand was blowing out in the middle. I thought it was my opposing gyre pumps. FINIALLY figured out my returns were pointed right at each other so keep that in mind.

 

[Marc88]

Added note. I was running my VarioS at 60% until yesterday, I dialed it back to 30%. My cheato has been coming apart so I'm hopeing reduced flow, among other changes, can fix that problem. All of that to say, I dont believe from my personal experience that splitting the return is going to hurt anything all. Just a matter of choice.