Return line / First Sump

[dougsfishandreptiles]

I attached some photos to try to make my question more clear. Are both of these pipes and holes just for draining? There are no other holes drilled in the tank so was the previous owner most likely doing a HOB return line?

 

[Utubereefer]

You can extend the smaller pipe over the overflow wall and make that your return line

 

[Utubereefer]

I’d raise the drain pipe too. It would be noisy with the water falling that far

 

[dougsfishandreptiles]

I’d raise the drain pipe too. It would be noisy with the water falling that far

Will do. How far from the top of the overflow would you recommend for the drain pipe?

 

[Utubereefer]

You want the top of the hook like an inch under the overflow wall. I’ll take a picture as soon as I get my daughter to sleep…. She battling me tonight

 

[dougsfishandreptiles]

You want the top of the hook like an inch under the overflow wall. I’ll take a picture as soon as I get my daughter to sleep…. She battling me tonight

Thank you, appreciate the help!

 

[Utubereefer]

How big is the tank?

 

[JumboShrimp]

@Utubereefer has you in good hands. Can't wait to see more progress photos.

 

[dougsfishandreptiles]

How big is the tank?

It’s 24x24x29. Weird dimensions

 

[Utubereefer]

Red is drain and yellow is return

 

[dougsfishandreptiles]

Red is drain and yellow is return

Perfect, I will snag some new pipes. I guess I could try one of those pvc extender attachments but not sure if that’s worth it

 

[Utubereefer]

Perfect, I will snag some new pipes. I guess I could try one of those pvc extender attachments but not sure if that’s worth it

Couplings would work great

 

[dougsfishandreptiles]

Couplings would work great

I’ll go for that! This is my first sump system so I’m going in blind lol. Have large freshwater tanks but I just run multiple canisters

 

[JumboShrimp]

If you want to be extra cautious, add a strainer/guard to the underwater drain, to keep a giant-snail-critter (or your favorite Wrasse or Shrimp) from getting in there.