Flow question

[dadof4]

Hey all! I'm buying one of the Diablo DC 5500 pumps for a return pump. I contacted Reef Octopus to find out what size plumbing their head loss curve was tested with because my dual returns are 3/4 inch. They replied that they test with 1" but since I have two 3/4 inch returns the drop in flow would be negligible if I run 1" from the pump to the "T" and 3/4" to the returns. I have a flexible vinyl tubing under the tank. I know its not ideal but I'm not going to tear it out and hard plumb it on a stable very well established tank. So, the question I have is do I use a "T" connector to branch off to the returns or would it be better to use a "Y" type connector? Which is going to give better flow? With they "T" the water have a 90 degree elbow to negotiate but the tubing could be tacked to the stand. With a "Y" type connector there would be less resistance but I would be afraid the tubing would fold a little from the weight. Besides changing the plumbing type, any opinions?

 

[Mike J.]

A "Y" would be better for two reasons: 1. Like you stated, less resistance. 2. Equal flow is better. With a "T" you'll have more flow to the pipe with less head resistance.

 

[dadof4]

Thank you! That is the route I thought best but I'm a little nervous about doing this and needed a second opinion. My current sump cracked on a seam, I used bone wax to seal the crack and needs to be replaced. I really would like to hard plumb this one but I don't want to have the sump/refugium down for that long.