"Right Sizing" Return Lines for 800gph Marine Modular Overflow

[FirstTimer101]

Hey Reefers,

I'll be using a Marine Modular 800gph Overflow (already purchased) on my 40G Breeder Reef Tank which will flow into a 20L sump.

The Overflow will be plumbed in a bean animal format...all leveraging 1/2 in drains. I have a Varios 2 Pump that I'll be using for my return.

Should I simply use a 1/2 return line and keep all plumbing uniform? As 1/2 is already small...there's no room to scale it down for the return line plumbing (as I understand is common to do). Is there any benefit of scaling up on my return line diameter?

Thanks in advance for your help. Its my first tank...and got a lot to learn.

 

[blaxsun]

You'll be fine with 1/2" plumbing on your return lines, although if you can go larger on your overflow (3/4") that would be better.