Plumbing Inventory List

[PlayDoh]

Hello All!!

Does anyone have a rough list of the total number of parts you used for your plumbing for your tank? I am just looking for some basic/rough numbers of how many unions/valves/length of pipe etc. other people have used. Surely someone wrote this down. ;)
Mark

 

[Fish Fan]

Can you let us know more about your setup, like Herbie vs Bean Animal drains, how many returns, etc.? I think that would help other better help you.

 

[PlayDoh]

Can you let us know more about your setup, like Herbie vs Bean Animal drains, how many returns, etc.? I think that would help other better help you.

For sure.
3 BA drains at 1 inch. 2 returns at 1 inch. Want to leave enough room for expansion for dosing and UV.

 

[Fish Fan]

I'm sure the gurus will be along soon to tell you for sure.

But typically it's advised to use a gate valve on your main drain from the Bean Animal overflow. Gate valves are wicked expensive, but highly recommended here. Other drain lines can be open, but it may be useful to have a ball valve on them.

I don't think there's a hard number or rule for unions, people just suggest that you place them pretty much everywhere, which is a bit vague. Maybe someone else has a better idea.

A lot of people say to use two 45 degree elbows instead of one 90 degree elbow to reduce head pressure, but I believe testing has shown that to be a bit overhyped.

Check valves can be either loved or hated, and again, very expensive. Some use them, some don't.

I haven't plumbed a tank in 15 years, but planning one now. I ordered my gate valves from BRS, but I ordered pretty much all my other valves, fittings, unions, etc. cheap from the big orange online bookstore. They had good reviews, and if they all work save me a ton of money comparing to buying it all at BRS or Home Depot.

Here's a good thread some some more info and pics:
https://www.reef2reef.com/threads/show-me-some-diy-sump-plumbing.680593/