Return lines

[sarimus]

Hi
Our tanks sump inlet is up top, do we just plumb the return lines to shoot the water across the surface and rely on wave makers to circulate the tank water.

 

[ENDUexe]

Sounds about right.
If the return nozzles are below the surface, you are all good. Otherwise, use some loc-line so the inlets are submerged or they will splutter and splash everywhere.
You'll struggle getting proper flow with just your returns without the addition of a bunch of noise. Wave makers are the way to go.

 

[mfinn]

Hi
Our tanks sump inlet is up top, do we just plumb the return lines to shoot the water across the surface and rely on wave makers to circulate the tank water.

Yes, the return lines are just for returning the water from the sump. Use wave makers/powerheads for flow in the tank.
But I would submerge the outlets a little to cut down on spray.
When you do this you have to balance the depth, with space in the sump for back flow when the power goes out or turning the return pump off for maintenance. Plus you have to allow enough water in the sump for normal operation.

 

[SantaMonica Verified Sponsor]

Yes keep in mind that with the return pump off, the display water level will fall down to the level of the return line outlets.