advice on sump

Discussion in 'Anything DIY related' started by Pleco102, Jul 5, 2011.

  1. Pleco102

    Pleco102

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    Hi there

    I used 40mm pvc pipe for my overflow to sump and drops about a meter maybe just over a meter to the sump. I have 1800l/h return pump. The pump pumps to fast for the flow into the sump. So is there anything i can do to boost the overflow? Or should i use wider pvc?

    Thanks
     
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  3. wsteene

    wsteene

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    Install a power head to the over flow pipe to increase the flow rate or as stated go bigger on the over flow as to increase to volume size that over flows.
     
  4. Ko7Ad

    Ko7Ad the newbie

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    Im no expert but if you add a powerhead to the overflow you increase the risk of a flood maybe only slightly. yes both pumps will turn off when there is a power failure,but to get the flow rates between the powerhead and the sump pump to "sync" is going to be the issue. I would rather increase PVC pipe diameter or add a valve on your return line to throttle the sump pump.

    Just had a look at your other thread, are you using 50mm PVC? you shouldn't be having issues... I would personally try decrease the length of the clear pipe or increase the length of outside pipe for the outside loop, this to make the intake shorter than the outside loop and assist the suction of the overflow.

    but as i said im no expert and im still to build my own overflow in the next few days, but i have done a ton of reading.

    here is a proven design that i base my assumptions on http://www.aquariumlife.net/projects/diy-overflow/120.asp
     
  5. Arrow Boy

    Arrow Boy

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    Ko7Ad has a valid point about trying to sync the 2 flow rates, you might end up with more problems if not done correctly.

    As for the solution thou I am not sure as I am also still planning my stuff and have not built my overflow or sump yet...
     
  6. OP
    Pleco102

    Pleco102

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    Thanks @Ko7Ad for input. I have added a ballvalve to my return line, but flow is not good to slow wil cycle tank like 3 times an hour. So yeah thank i am then going for wider pvc.
     
    Last edited by a moderator: Oct 2, 2016
  7. Ko7Ad

    Ko7Ad the newbie

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    @Pleco102 its a pleasure, let us know how it turns out after diameter change.. I have 1500lph pump with 1.9m max head and was thinking of using 25mm PVC :( seems im going to have the same issue. But will test once i get my new tank next month :)
     

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