Hard-Plumbed Siphon Python

[Jrapa86]

I currently plumbed a brand new saltwater tank. The plumbing connects the sump (under the tank) to the basement by 3/4" --> 1" PVC Schedule 40. One idea I had was to connect my python water changer to the downstairs sink, and hard-plumb the line to a garden hose (3/4") quick-disconnect. The total length is ~ 25-30ft. The rise is ~15ft.

The problem I am facing is there is a near-full loss of siphon-suction pressure by the time it reaches the quick-disconnect.

My question: is there a principle of siphon/fluid dynamics I am missing that would account for the suction pressure loss?

My Other Question: If there is a principle that I am missing which prevents this distant siphon from creating adequate sucking power, is there a pump that I can use as an alternative? (tolerant to sediment being in the fluid)

 

[vetteguy53081]

I currently plumbed a brand new saltwater tank. The plumbing connects the sump (under the tank) to the basement by 3/4" --> 1" PVC Schedule 40. One idea I had was to connect my python water changer to the downstairs sink, and hard-plumb the line to a garden hose (3/4") quick-disconnect. The total length is ~ 25-30ft. The rise is ~15ft.

The problem I am facing is there is a near-full loss of siphon-suction pressure by the time it reaches the quick-disconnect.

My question: is there a principle of siphon/fluid dynamics I am missing that would account for the suction pressure loss?

My Other Question: If there is a principle that I am missing which prevents this distant siphon from creating adequate sucking power, is there a pump that I can use as an alternative? (tolerant to sediment being in the fluid)

No garden hose- couplings rust and hose molds in time
Clear vinyl tubing is best- Menards or Home Depot

 

[Rundmc2016]

If you're just having problems starting the syphon you can stick the vacuum tube end into the nozzle for the return water from your sump. Once the syphon starts, use your controls to turn off the return. That should get the syphon going and you won't be having to run from the sink downstairs to the tank.

 

[Rundmc2016]

My Other Question: If there is a principle that I am missing which prevents this distant siphon from creating adequate sucking power, is there a pump that I can use as an alternative? (tolerant to sediment being in the fluid)

The faucet may not be flowing fast enough to draw the air from the tubing to start the syphon.

 

[Duncan62]

No garden hose- couplings rust and hose molds in time
Clear vinyl tubing is best- Menards or Home Depot

I use a food grade vinyl hose with a carbon prefilter for my rodi occasionally. I never thought about the fittings. They are brass. Food grade for humans isn't the same for coral. Thanks. Good catch.

 

[rwb500]

it seems like you are trying to use the venturi effect of the Python to start a very long and relatively large diameter siphon? It is very unlikely to create enough negative pressure to do that. Obviously there are a lot of variables. You can just put a small pump like a maxijet in the sump and have it pump water out of the tank if thats what youre trying to do. It will need to be removed or have a valve on it to stop the siphon when you are done.

 

[mfinn]

I currently plumbed a brand new saltwater tank. The plumbing connects the sump (under the tank) to the basement by 3/4" --> 1" PVC Schedule 40. One idea I had was to connect my python water changer to the downstairs sink, and hard-plumb the line to a garden hose (3/4") quick-disconnect. The total length is ~ 25-30ft. The rise is ~15ft.

The problem I am facing is there is a near-full loss of siphon-suction pressure by the time it reaches the quick-disconnect.

My question: is there a principle of siphon/fluid dynamics I am missing that would account for the suction pressure loss?

My Other Question: If there is a principle that I am missing which prevents this distant siphon from creating adequate sucking power, is there a pump that I can use as an alternative? (tolerant to sediment being in the fluid)

If the suction on the python water change hose is all down hill there shouldn't be any suction loss, unless there is a air leak? Maybe at the quick disconnect?