I'm overthinking this aren't I? 3/4" or 1" return pipe?

[Elbereth]

I feel like I've been making too many boards about this project but it's my first time plumbing a system and anxiety is a huge issue. Don't want to have to redo this later so looking for some final advice before I start cutting my pipe!

My system:

• 40g tank + 16g sump + possible addition of a second 20-25 display tank later = 81 gallons max
• max 5x turnover, about 400gph
• total head loss ~ 6.5 feet
• Sicce Syncra 3.0 should be capable of about 460gph at that height according to head loss chart (might upgrade to better pump later)

I planned to use 3/4" pipe for the return but then came across some posts to the effect that 1" is better for over 300gph because of friction. Thoughts? Is it worth going up to 1" to be safe?

Thanks in advance!

 

[nuxx Verified Sponsor]

No harm no foul going bigger?

... but I also think 3/4" is just fine.

 

[Elbereth]

No harm no foul going bigger?

... but I also think 3/4" is just fine.

That's what I thought too but my anxious brain is making the choice more difficult than it should be. I guess part of the problem is deciding whether to use 3/4" or 1" for the returns within the tank itself. I think 1" would be too noticeable but reducing a 1" pipe to 3/4" fittings at the end would negate some of the benefits of using the 1" pipe in the first place.

But again, I'm probably overthinking this because I've never dealt with a plumbed system before.

 

[nuxx Verified Sponsor]

That's what I thought too but my anxious brain is making the choice more difficult than it should be. I guess part of the problem is deciding whether to use 3/4" or 1" for the returns within the tank itself. I think 1" would be too noticeable but reducing a 1" pipe to 3/4" fittings at the end would negate some of the benefits of using the 1" pipe in the first place.

But again, I'm probably overthinking this because I've never dealt with a plumbed system before.

I used smaller diameter return plumbing with no issue.

Can see the returns are a lot smaller here. No issues.

 

[Elbereth]

Thanks, good to know. One vote for 3/4" then. Anyone else want to chip in?

 

[Snoopy 67]

https://www.nano-reef.com/forums/topic/222744-flow-rate-chart-for-overflow-bulkhead-sizes/Read this & you will have no worries.

 

[Elbereth]

That's about drain lines. I'm talking return line.

 

[afrokobe]

You should be fine with 3/4.

 

[dwest]

3/4

 

[BZOFIQ]

1",

DC pumps dont like to be choked.

 

[exnisstech]

I have 1" but my return pump is in the basement and pushing water up to the first floor 20 ft away so I think you will be fine with 3/4

 

[Elbereth]

1",

DC pumps dont like to be choked.

Do you mean there's more wear and tear on the pump?

 

[Rmckoy]

I feel like I've been making too many boards about this project but it's my first time plumbing a system and anxiety is a huge issue. Don't want to have to redo this later so looking for some final advice before I start cutting my pipe!

My system:

• 40g tank + 16g sump + possible addition of a second 20-25 display tank later = 81 gallons max
• max 5x turnover, about 400gph
• total head loss ~ 6.5 feet
• Sicce Syncra 3.0 should be capable of about 460gph at that height according to head loss chart (might upgrade to better pump later)

I planned to use 3/4" pipe for the return but then came across some posts to the effect that 1" is better for over 300gph because of friction. Thoughts? Is it worth going up to 1" to be safe?

Thanks in advance!

I think it would depend on the size from the gravity overflow side ?

 

[EgotisticObeseChihuahua]

Thanks, good to know. One vote for 3/4" then. Anyone else want to chip in?

Unless you are using a flow nozzle, I would recommend 1 inch just because it's less of a straight beam blasting whatever is in its way.


But, if it's too much trouble I wouldn't deem it worth it.

 

[Elbereth]

Unless you are using a flow nozzle, I would recommend 1 inch just because it's less of a straight beam blasting whatever is in its way.


But, if it's too much trouble I wouldn't deem it worth it.

I was also concerned about that so I'll be splitting between two elbows.

 

[EgotisticObeseChihuahua]

I was also concerned about that so I'll be splitting between two elbows.

In that case, a 3/4 inch should be fine.

 

[n2585722]

I have a 42 gallon tank and use 3/4" return. It has been in use for 7 years now. Still use the same pump also. It is a Sicce 3.0.

 

[Thor2j]

Considering Innovative marine uses 3/4 return on its 200g INT peninsula, (not good idea for 200 but doable), I think u will be fine.

 

[Elbereth]

I have a 42 gallon tank and use 3/4" return. It has been in use for 7 years now. Still use the same pump also. It is a Sicce 3.0.

That's good to hear especially since you have the same pump as I plan to use. Thanks!

 

[Elbereth]

Considering Innovative marine uses 3/4 return on its 200g INT peninsula, (not good idea for 200 but doable), I think u will be fine.

That does make me more confident about using the 3/4" on my system! Thank you.