More FAQs about Plumbing Closed-Loop Return Manifold Design/Engineering Related Articles: Plumbing Return Manifolds, Plumbing Marine Systems, Refugiums,  Related FAQs: Closed Loop Recirculation 1, Closed Loop Recirculation 2, Closed Loop Recirculation 3, & FAQs on: Rationale, Plumbing, Pumps, Troubleshooting/Repair, &  Marine Plumbing 1, Marine Plumbing 2, Marine Plumbing 3,  Marine Plumbing 4, Marine Plumbing 5, Marine Plumbing 6, Plumbing 7, Plumbing 8, Plumbing 9, Plumbing 11, Plumbing 12, Plumbing 13, Plumbing 14, Plumbing 15, Plumbing 16, Plumbing 17, Plumbing 18, Make Up Water Systems, Pumps, Plumbing, Circulation, Sumps, Refugiums,  Marine Circulation 2, Gear Selection for Circulation, Pump Problems, Fish-Only Marine Set-ups, Fish-Only Marine Systems 2, FOWLR/Fish and Invertebrate Systems, Reef Systems, Coldwater Systems, Small Systems, Large Systems,  Water Changes,  Surge Devices,

Over the top or through the panel/s works for me.

Open Loops & Closed Loops (Flow Rates) 07/23/11
Hello to the Crew,
<<Hiya Daniel>>
I was just struck by a thunderbolt when I realized that the sump flow rate (filtration, open loop) should be vastly different than the in display circulation (closed-loop system).
<<An epiphany, eh>>
Given that I have a display tank thats 175g and a total system volume of 380g (all before displacement), do I have the following correct:
Open Loop (sump filtration): To be 3-5 times display volume. Hence, 525g to 875g should pass through the sump filtration system.
<<This is likely fineas long as there are no issues with noise, excessive bubbles, etc. With ancillary filtration equipment located in the sump, I find the longer dwell time of the slower flow rates to be beneficial>>
Closed-Loop (in display circulation): For reef tanks containing SPS, 20-40 times display volume. Hence, 3,500gph to 7,000gph.
<<This depends largely on the type of flow provided. With the right flow type/method, its hard to provide too much for almost any species. I very much suggest you research gyre type flow>>
If I have the above correct, my Reeflo Dart, acting as the systems main pump, has been pushing water through the open loop way too fast (in theory).
<<Controversial But yes, I would agree here>>
Only reason I care at this point is Im turning my fish-only system into a reef system, and Im striving for optimal filtration and circulation
<<What you propose is beneficial to both systems>>
(now realizing they are not necessarily inter-related, perhaps?).
<<Mmm Related perhaps (and equally important)but different, yes>>
Thank you very much for your time,
Daniel
<<A pleasure to share EricR>>

Closed-LoopA Better Way to Strain? 02/23/10
Bob, Anthony, Andrew, et al,
<<Greetings strangerEricR here today>>
Hope you are all well,
<<Speaking for myself, doing fine thanks>>
has been a long time since my last communication.
<<Indeedconsidering its been about four years since Anthony left our team>>
I have set up several closed-loops in my day and have learned two valuable lessons; one of which I want to bounce off of the team.
<<Okay>>
For those starting a closed-loop system, wherever possible, utilize two drains to avoid noise and air, as well as controlling the flow 'more better'.
<<Ah yes, good advice Whether for this purpose or to drain to a sump, providing an adequate number of properly sized drain lines goes far toward alleviating such problems>>
Secondly, I have yet to figure out how to keep small debris/detritus/particulates from entering the 'loop'.
It drives me mad :). Esthetically, big ole' sponge filters on the drain intakes is just not going to work;
<<Agreedand would also clog/trap detritus/depress flow quite readily>>
but even the smallest sliver of an opening and voila, all my copepods are now in my loop, churned into mush by the impeller.
<<An overrated issue in my opinion. The bulk of the population will avoid thisand even those caught and churned into mush still provide food/benefit to the system>>
Not to mention that it surely would be nice to test/check/clean the loop pump only a couple of times a year.
<<This should still be the case>>
As a test, I did create 2 additional overflow areas just for the drains and used simple filter media over the pipe. This was not ideal but worked
<<Mmmbut adding unnecessarily to the maintenance of the systemagain, in my opinion>>
- I am an advocate of having the closed-loop pulling from lower in the tank, for 'stirring' things up.
<<Indeed>>
However, the draw, after testing, did in fact detract from the primary overflow drain skimming a good portion of the proteins from the surface and popping them back into the water column, shaken and not stirred - primarily since the closed-loop flow is typically several times the filtration flow.
<<I seeso now a matter of gauging the benefit of one over the other>>
The issue is especially problematic on smaller tanks where a closed-loop would be ideal visually but no way to keep the drains or pump free of icky stuff.
<<Maybe sobut is a facet of marine plumbing>>
Are we all going to just buy Vortechs?
<<Hee-hee! Not meto dang expensive for a flow pump you cant even aim! I am a fan of Tunze Stream pumps thoughand prefer these to a closed-loop on larger home tanks as the pumps big enough for a closed-loop are almost always too noisy for use in living areas. And even on small to medium sized tanks, I think the Algae Free Sure Flow upgrade for the Maxi-Jet pumps is a great solution>>
Is there really such a thing as Blue Pom Pom Xenia if you don't use black lights or lots of blue lighting?
<<Mmm, yes I ordered some really blue Acros (based on the photos offered) off the NET a couple weeks agoyoud think after all these years I would learn>>
Am I eating too many M&M's?
<<Impossible!>>
Surely I am not alone in this?
<<Who you callin Shirley>>
Any thoughts?
<<Ideally you want to maximize the flow from your closed-loop pump. Aside from a plastic bulkhead strainer to keep your fishes/larger macro organisms from being sucked in to the loopI wouldnt worry about or try to restrict it any further>>
Thanks!
<<Happy to share! Eric Russell>>

Dual Return Manifolds 1/21/10
Dear WWM Crew,
<Hello.>
Thank you for extreme wealth of knowledge you share with those embarking into this wonderful hobby.
<The crews accumulative knowledge is quite extensive. I myself am an expert on duct tape and bailing wire applications!>
I was looking for some help in plumbing my aquarium. I have what I would consider a relatively tall aquarium 40" W X 20" D x 30" T and am planning for a mixed reef tank. I am concerned about providing adequate flow to the lower portion of the tank, but would like to avoid the use of powerheads. I was thinking of incorporating the use of dual return manifolds to achieve this with one plumbed around the top of the tank and the second that would be installed under a deep sand bed with four adjustable outlets that would extend out of the substrate. Is there any benefit/risk of this design?
<If you are referring to running both of these from the sump return, yes, there is a large risk.
The loop on the bottom will siphon or drain the water out of your tank into your sump when the return pump is off. Some do this relying on check valves, DON'T, they will fail.>
I currently have an Iwaki MD70RLT return pump and thought that I could switch it between the two manifolds utilizing a 3/4" SCWD to achieve sufficient flow . Any input or advice that you might have would be greatly appreciated.
<A few things. First, you really should be able to achieve sufficient flow with just the upper loop, utilizing LocLine on the outputs so you can easily tweak the direction to achieve flow through the entire tank. The other thing to consider is the use of a second pump, using it to drive a dedicated closed loop. Then you can place the outputs wherever you wish.>
Thank you for time,
Paul
<Welcome, happy reefing, Scott V.>

Question re. plumbing a closed loop manifold 12/10/09 First of all, I wanted to compliment you all on a very informative and helpful website. Since discovering it late last year, I have perused it often (constantly?) and your articles and FAQs have helped me better understand what was happening in my tank, and improve living conditions for its (too) many inhabitants. Your website is so well stocked that this is the first time I have had to pose a question of the experts directly. <Thank you for the high praise. It comes from a collaborative experience and in some cases heartaches within the hobby!> Honestly, it is a little intimidating doing so because I consider myself still a novice with only one tank and after barely 18 months in the marine hobby. Anyway, my question(s) relate(s) to some re-plumbing I wish to do on my tank to improve circulation and turnover. I have read through the FAQ's at length, think I have identified my options and preferences, but would like your expert opinion(s) on them. <Sure.> First, some relevant (I think) details about my set up. As a caveat, I set up my system before finding your site and much of what I now have evolved as incremental improvements on my original hastily designed system. My display tank is 150 gallons (mixed reef), glass, and with dimensions 72 L by 18 W by 29 H. In addition to the display, I have water flowing through 2 separate sumps (plumbed in-line) the first to house my protein skimmer, heaters, and a submersible pump that feeds my upstream refugium, and the second containing chemical filtration, live rock rubble and whatever undesirables are caught in the main tank. The aforementioned reverse-lit refugium (installed as a direct result of your great advice!) is 56 gallons with a DSB, <Nice size in relation to the system.> Chaeto, Xenia, a few pieces of LR and an amazing collection of mysis, pods, worms, featherdusters, and brittle stars (small and large) all emerging from the hardware store sand, the three pieces of live rock added and/or the baseball sized clump of Chaeto added last January. Anyway, I digress from my plumbing question. Total system volume estimated to be about 250 gallons (although Im not entirely sure how to measure volume of my customized sumps). <Length times width times height divided by 231 will give you the gallons without anything in it. Use the inside dimensions if you want to be even more accurate.> For circulation I have a Quiet One 6000 pulling (pushing?) <Pushing.> water from my second sump back into my display through 1 inch flexible tubing at about 1200 G/hr after estimated head loss. Water is returned through a 1 inch bulkhead via split loc line tubing. Additionally, I have about 300 G/hr flowing through my refugium, which gravity-feeds water into my main tank. All of this water flows to the sumps through two 1 ½ inch bulkheads each with a internal overflow box. Finally, I currently have 3 powerheads in the tank for internal flow 2 Koralia 2s and 1 Koralia 3 providing an additional 2050 G/hour of flow. If you trust these numbers, total flow is about 3500 G/hr or 23 times display tank volume. Although one would think this should be enough to keep things moving, I am not satisfied with the amount, nature and distribution of flow and think it may be contributing to some algae difficulties I am having. I am also not a big fan of those powerheads in the tank, for reasons of aesthetics, laminar nature of flow, and reliability over time. So.. what I am planning to do is add a closed loop manifold described in Anthonys article and much discussed on your website to date. I have not yet done so, but am planning to purchase a Sequence Barracuda at 3500 G/hr before head loss. This pumps seems well regarded, and provides the flow I am looking for given estimated head loss and a manifold of between 8 and 10 ½ inch outlets. I figure it is better to go a little stronger on the pump and throttle back using a ball or gate valve if I find things blowing around too much. Thoughts? <This or the Dart for this application, the Barracuda is actually rated at 4300 gph before any loss.> My question relates to the best method(s) to draw water from the tank to supply this CLM. From reading your site, I know that most of you are big fans of feeding such systems through holes drilled into the tank and while I agree I am also a little leery of further tapping my established tank. <Drilled is the most failsafe for this and overflows.> Having thought this through a bit already, I think I have three options (not including the annoying do nothing one of course). I would answers to some questions I have on each option, as well as your opinion on which way you would go if it were your tank. Option 1: Over-the-top U configuration - For this I would use 1 ½ inch PVC to pull water from deep in the tank, relying on a horizontal length of PVC along the back wall under the rock work with approximately 6-7 openings (with strainers) to reduce the amount of pressure at any one intake. I drew something up in PowerPoint (only application available to me at work to do so) and have enclosed it with this e-mail. This would be the least disruptive to my setup (I think) however I have questions/concerns... - In the event of power loss/shut off, will such a configuration keep the pump primed, so that I don't need to worry about doing this manually each time? <It will so long as the intake stays underwater so the line is not sucking in air when the power restarts.> - Given the number of angles, the strainers, and a run of between 4 and 8 feet depending on the side of the tank I place the pump, will the pump be strong enough to pull water without cavitating? <Oh yes, going to a 2" intake line will make sure of this, give you more flow in the end.> I plan to put a gate valve after the pump but don't want to throttle it down so much as to significantly reduce the flow. <Fine approach.> Option 2: Work with the existing tank bulkheads, but modify their use. By this I mean that I could convert the existing 1 inch bulkhead (currently used as a return) into a overflow and use it along with one of the 1 ½ inch bulkheads to return water to the sump while using the other 1 ½ inch bulkhead to draw water for the manifold pump. The pump returning water from the sump would then have to return over the side. I would use internal overflow boxes (1 or 2) to skim water off the surface to feed the 2 bulkheads doing to my sump while a similar contraption to that outlined above to feed the manifold pump. The questions/concerns I have with this option are the following.... - would these 2 bulkheads (1 ½ inch and 1 inch) be sufficient to overflow 1200 G/hour or would I need to throttle back my main pump or replace it with one of lesser power? What margin for error would it leave me? <This would leave no margin, it will be close. Those lines may flow 1200 gph in a perfect setup, throw in a run or elbow on the overflow and you could be in trouble if you didn't throttle the pump back. See: http://wetwebmedia.com/BulkheadFloRateArt.htm> Does it matter if I use 2 separate trapezoidal (?) overflows or one long one that stretches the length of the tank? <Not really so long as both boxes are at the same level.> - is one 1 ½ inch bulkhead sufficient to supply water to such a powerful pump as the Barracuda? <Technically yes, but I would go with a 2" line, especially if you are going to be running it some distance.> I think it is since the intake for the pump is 1 ½ inch, however, I had read somewhere on your site that the size of bulkhead was important even when the pump is not gravity fed. <It can be. You never want to restrict the intake side of one of these pumps. 1.5 will not be too restrictive, 2" just gives you more for your money and trouble.> Most seem to say the opposite, but I'd rather not make the dollar and effort investment if this is not going to work and I'll have to again throttle back the pump too significantly. - if the1 ½ inch bulkhead feeding the manifold pump is located at the same level as the other 2 (approximately 4 inches from the water line) is this too close to the top such that I'll get that dreaded tornado effect at the water surface? <Possibly, again will likely be close. But this can always be fixed by adding an elbow pointing down inside.> Option 3: Leave existing bulkheads alone, and drill another hole in the tank to accommodate the feed to the manifold pump. The questions/concerns I have with this are as follows.... - Similar to the above, will one 1 ½ inch hole be enough, or do I need to drill more? <Same as above.> - Where would these additional holes be best drilled? <Far enough down to not intake air, far enough up to not intake substrate.> - Is there any safe way to drill these holes while not completely draining the tank? <There is, but the consequences if it goes bad are far greater, even putting your own safety at risk.> I have read on your site that while draining is the best and safest, it is possible to drop the water sufficiently to drill the hole without draining it completely. <I will admit I do this quite often myself. But do know if the glass where to be cracked while doing this you not only risk a failure of your tank and the well being of your livestock, but it is a very real possibility of huge, sharp pieces of glass coming your way with a good bit of force.> The help you provide is awesome and inspirational, all the more so noting there is little if any profit in it for you. Can't imagine how many lives you have helped save. Then again, maybe this is the reward you seek..... <Thank you for the kind words. I personally would drill the tank unless you have quite a bit of livestock that would be disturbed by the teardown. That being said, option 1 as per your diagram can and will work fine!> Thanks for your help. Andrew <Welcome, Scott V.>

Caption above left reads: "For initial prime. Subsequently capped. Below right: "To manifold above tank".

Closed Loop System 10/9/09
Good afternoon crew.
<Good evening Matt.>
I am sorry I keep bothering all of you, but I have been trying to make my 55gal tank as pleasurable and livable for the inhabitants as possible and have been reading sooo much lately. I was ready Anthony's Manifold article and have a question about it that I cannot find anywhere. I do not have a sump on my tank that is already set up and refuse to use a siphon overflow on it.
<I'm not fond of them myself, can be problematic.>
It also has a sticker on the bottom of the tank that says all sides are tempered and not to drill at all so the tank will stay undrilled and siphonless. Can I just run an external pump to pull water from my display tank and feed it up through the closed loop through ½" CPVC piping that has 45 degree elbows on it? I want the flow to replace my powerheads that I have now, but don't want to put nipples on the ends either because I do not want a spray type output. Would it be fine if I had about 6 or these ½" CPVC 45 degree elbows coming off of the closed loop and used an 1800 gph mag 18 pump to put the water through them?
Do I really need flow restrictors and ball valves for any specific reason? In my head this seems way too simple to be implemented.
<You are correct, what you envision is not that simple. I'm thinking you want to build a manifold teed off to provide six outlets that will likely hang over the rim of the tank, and will mount to the output of the Mag 18. If I am correct in assuming this, the problem lies in getting equal flow through all six outlets. Nearly impossible to do without a way of controlling flow through each outlet. Water is going to travel through the plumbing maze that provides the least amount of restriction, so not all outputs will provide equal flow without using ball valves/restrictors to fine tune. The other problem lies in how to easily start the initial siphon to the pump, and the fact that you will likely have cavitation problems with this design. To add to the cost, two PVC unions with ball valves will need to be installed at the inlet and outlet of the pump. Eventually the pump will require maintenance/replacement and you will need a way to remove the pump without draining your tank onto the floor. In lieu of the problems that you will face, aside from cursing your mother for being born, I've convinced myself that you would be much better off using your powerheads controlled by an inexpensive wavemaker such as the Aquarium Systems device. I've been using their wavemaker for close to four years now and it just keeps on a ticking. Am hoping your powerheads are Maxi-Jets as these are the only 115 volt powerheads that I'm aware of that work reliably with wavemakers.>
Any concerns about this plan that you have would be greatly appreciated. Thanks!!
<You're welcome. James (Salty Dog)>
Matt

Closed Loop information, Return Manifold from Sump 12/31/08 Team, Happy Holidays and New Year. <Thank you and right back at!> Have not written in a while and hope everyone is well. <Tis here.> I have read several very good threads but would like input if you would be so kind. I inherited a 75g AGA standard system with a single 600gph, off center left MegaFlow. Nice tank, not very excited about the circulation possibilities. I am not a novice to CLS but not a master either. Bottom line, the tank is older, have checked with All Glass and the bottom and back appears to be tempered (also used the cheap polarized sun glass method :) ). <Surprising to me, glad you checked!> My favorite CLS option sans many powerheads is as follows (and I so love the remarks you all do in parens after comments :). Tear it up! <OK!> Intake: Utilizing the sump only, with check valve, unions for maintenance and ball valve some control in case of installing a larger pump. <Well, one issue already, the check valve. I know many will disagree with this stand, but they are completely worthless in marine aquaria IMO. The reason being they cannot be counted on to work, an little obstruction will keep the valve open.> Pump: More than likely a 1000-ish GPH like an Eheim MS or Quiet One 4000HH. Return: Four, 2 per side, slightly varied depth but no more than 4" down with loc line. Each side fed by a 3/4" SCWD. My plan is to then use loc line for positioning. On the end of each loc line feed, I will install 3/4" eductors to enhance flow while not overpowering the overflow. I also am toying with the idea of installing small ball valves on each individual run if I can get them to mount properly in an accessible fashion; I have plumbed myself in trouble several times - its no good to plan ahead when you can't reach things easily. <Agreed.> Basically, I am hoping with the eductors to augment the return flow so your opinion on the presumed flows is appreciated. <Sure.> - Example, a 980gph HH pump that has an initial rise of 4' would make the output roughly 850gph (it will be nearly a straight shot up actually less than 4'. - Installation of SCWD at the same height as CLS (basically) to reduce to 700gph appx. Each side of the SCWD having an outflow of appx 700gph, then factoring in roughly 1% loss per each linear foot of PVC (roughly 5'), overestimating 5% loss per right angle (max of 4) would equate to a 25% loss of pressure (and I think that's overestimating) leaving appx. 525gph. <A reasonable estimation.> If I can tune the two outputs on each side to effectively reach around 200gph, then adding a factor of 3 for the eductor, that would be a total side to side flow of 1200gph on each SCWD switch while still only draining 400 gph in the Megaflow (which should be about right for a Berlin or pseudo refugium so nutrients can actually process versus passing the bacteria by like fast food :) ). <But more than the 1 can truly handle. I do assume you will be using the ¾ throughput as a drain also, so you can handle the flow. But this does leave you with no margin for error/safety in the overflow system.> And yes, will be tapping the returns on the loc line branch about 1" below Megaflow teeth in case of check valve issue - large sump can handle an additional 10g or so on top of normal capacity. <Better to rely purely on sump capacity as you mention. Skip the check valve, if you have sufficient room in your sump there is no need for them at all, they only diminish flow from your pump.> Am I succumbing to wishful thinking or are my assumptions reasonable? I value your thoughts. <I will take another possibly unpopular stand re the eductors. These merely take a flow, pinch it down to a higher velocity and then force this high velocity flow into mixing with the surrounding water. This does cause more water to move directly out of the fitting, but I think it is misleading to consumers to say it triples the flow. It does, depending on perspective. Really for the amount of flow you will be able run through the overflow you will only want a single ¾ return or dual ½ returns. Four ¾ outputs here will give you next to no velocity out of each line to play with, direct your flow. If you want to keep away from powerheads you will need to employ a true closed loop (not from the sump), with an over the top intake much like those used by canister filters.> Take good care! Happy New Year! <Welcome, good New Year to you too! Scott V.>

Re: Closed Loop information, Return Manifold from Sump 12/31/08 Scott, Awesome, thanks. <Pleasure to help out.> A couple of things. Check valves, I hear ya, never used them, I will consider your comments. MegaFlow throughput is supposed to be 600gph. I am not quite sure, guess I will have to measure it with a flow meter perhaps <Yeah, 600 gph is the spiel, 300 is the reality.> Actually an over the wall CLS is not out of the question, however after reading several of the threads, even some of the WWW staff don't like it or didn't seem to. <They are not choice #1. They do require priming at the get go and anytime air is introduced into the line. Put it lower in the tank and you should only have to prime it the first time unless you drain the tank for some reason.> If I were to do it, for space between cabinet and tank, it would have to be max of 3/4". <May need multiple intakes depending on the flow you end up with.> I would even considering calling Paul in Canada at Oceans Motions and getting a 4 way Squirt and using something like a Reeflo or similar low wattage 1200-1500gph pump. <A nice way to go.> Or just 2 SCWD one on each side. Interesting, that way i could make the return more of a spray bar / surface agitator / back of tank circulation system. Very similar to drilled closed loops I have seen. My only worry is in the intake - what is the best recommendation for not having critters or gunk captured in the piping intake? <Just a simple PVC screen.> The benefit of having it from the sump return is that the water is pretty much polished before it gets to the pump. I would imagine similar to slip screen plumbing but I would probably do one intake on each side of the overflow in gray PVC as to minimize sight and have less chance of clog or mishap. I am a bit worried about how to secure the piping runs - with a tight canopy and no ledge... super Velcro? <I actually use the little peel and stick zip tie mounts found at the hardware stores. The things stick like crazy to just about anything. Just stick it and then zip tie your plumbing in place.> Anyway, the only drawback really is external pump space and any minor leaking - I guess I could use a couple of high powered submersibles also and plop in the sump. <One reason to go with submersibles, but with proper plumbing it really is not a concern.> Perhaps even some of that nifty flex PVC. <Good stuff, can be a lifesaver.> I also had not considered until just this moment the impact from dual 250w halides about 9" from the PVC - wonder if that will impact heat :). <Will be fine.> HNY Bill <Happy New Year to you too! Have fun, Scott V.>

In-tank Manifold 9/23/08 Hey Crew, <Hello Bryan.> In an effort to rid my tank of powerheads that are pretty much horrible for water flow. Could you take a look at the attached jpg and let me know if this would work. My current tank is a AGA 75gal with one over flow, and my sump works fine with a Mag drive 9.5 for the return. However, since I live in the interior of Alaska there is no glassman willing to take a chance at drilling a fish tank. So, since I have an extra Mag drive 9.5, I would like to submerse it in the tank and run a open manifold. The pump would be hid by the rocks and have a fish guard on it. <Functionally this would work fine, the problem you will run into is servicing the pump. Periodically the pump and rotor will need to be cleaned and eventually the pump will need to be replaced. Every time you need to work on the pump it will entail tearing your tank apart. Look for PVC intake screens and put a intake loop into the tank. You will need to prime it the first time out. You can then run the line down to the pump and back up to your manifold. It will basically work in the same manner as a canister filter. If you do want the tank drilled, consider doing it yourself. It is a fairly straightforward process, you basically just grind through the glass. Here is a video of myself drilling to give you an idea: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zwc3o_rGmLg.> Using either 1/2 or 3/4 PVC I would like to run 7 directional nozzles. There should be very little head loss since the pump is inside the tank. Is this possible? <Oh yes.> What size PVC should I run 1/2 or 3/4? <For this size pump I would make the loop out of ¾ with 3-4 ½ outputs.> Any comments would be great. Thanks, Bryan <Welcome, have fun, Scott V.>

Re: in- tank Manifold 9/24/08 Scott V., Thanks for the input. <Welcome Bryan.> I did forget to mention this is only temporary i.e. 1 year. I was figuring to have a quick disconnect at the pump head and ensuring I don't place any corals on top of the rock that covers the pump, so I could move just one rock, disconnect and pull the pump for maintenance. <Ahhh, okay, I see!> I want to keep the pump out of the sump so I would not have so much head loss. With the 9.5 I am running right now for the filter with a 3/4 return reduced to two 1/2 nozzles is about all she can handle. I would need more than two nozzles for circulation if I want to get rid of the powerheads, and I don't see that as being possible with the extra 9.5 pump I have. <The same pump will handle 3 half inch outputs on the closed loop you propose.> In a year I should have the addition to my house finished and the new living room will have a in-the-wall 180 or 210 with a utility room behind it. <Nice!> And now that I watched your video (nice background music by the way) I think I'll will get a standard tank and drill the holes myself. <Oh yes, I strongly encourage you to do this, the drilling process is very simple.> Once thats set up my 75 gal and 36 gal will be tore down and their inhabitants moved to the new tank. Thanks again, Bryan <Welcome, have fun, Scott V.>

Questions On My Closed-Loop System 03/08/08 To WWM, <<Hello anonymous seeker of assistance>> I am setting up a closed-loop system inside my new tank. The tank is a 150gal acrylic size is 60x24x24. I have two 1 ½?drilled in the bottom tank outside of the overflow box. I have ordered three 1 ½?strainers. Two of which will be installed in my stand-offs in the overflow boxes. I also ordered a Sequence ReeFlo Snapper pump for this closed-loop system. After further study I now wish I had ordered a Dart model instead. <<Mmm, yesfor the $30 difference in purchase price, the additional 1200gph would have proven most useful hereespecially considering these pumps are rated for low head pressures>> This pump minus any head pressure is rated at 2400gph. Ok here is were I need your advise/help. I am hoping to add a T as soon as I enter tank and reduce fittings down to 1 PVC pipe. I will be making a loop from a 1/3 of the way in on each side of the tank. This loop will start from rear of tank to front (viewing) side back to rear joining back in with inlet T. I have also ordered enough loc-line tubing to make 6-¾ ports which I will tee-off of. <Hmm, okay The ¾ ports, or outlets, will require about 650gph of flow per outlet to be of use (provide a useful force of flow). Using this figure, you need a pump that can deliver 3900gph AFTER headloss. Even if you reduce the outlets to ½ (about 350gph needed per), that still leaves you with a requirement for 2100gph after headlossand likely still more than the Snapper can supply>> I have decided to place 4 ports in rear and 2 in front. I am hoping this will create a lot of the turbulence I will need for my corals. <<Sounds fine, but>> I also will be burying the 1 lines in sand with only the loc-line coming out of. <<This too should be okay>> On the input side I will create a little riser and then use a 1 ½ strainer to protect my wild life. Here are my two questions : 1) Is 6-¾ ports too many with my selected pump? <<Indeedas stated. You will likely have to reduce this by halfor go with 5-½ outletseither of which could still give you good water movement (its not always about the number of outlets)>> 2) Is having just 1-1½ inlet with 1 strainer on intake going to be rough on my critters or should I also T it off inside tank and then use 2 strainers? <<Most motile critters will know to keep clearthough some weak swimmers or soft-bodied sessile organisms may get sucked-up. Doubling the intake (with either a Tee or Wye fitting) will reduce the suction at the individual inlets and may prevent possible issues re>> Please note: critique what I have listed and if any additional current needed in tank will have to come from power heads. Not including approximate 600-800gph thru refuge/sump. <<With a properly designed closed-loop (i.e. outlets sized for amount of flow provided), a couple-thousand gph should be fine. Though I would suggest using a larger-than-needed pump with a gate-valve plumbed on the output side to allow some flexibility for expansion and/or eventual loss of flow due to organic buildup within the plumbing>> Thank you. <<Happy to assist. EricR>>

Manifold Closed Loop Question, Circulation, des.  12/12/07 Hi All. <Hi Dan> Great site with much good info. The praise never stops! <Thank you.> I have a standard 90g reef tank manufactured by Perfecto. It has a corner overflow with 2 bulkheads at a diameter of 1.25 inch. <Mmm, I'm guessing outside diameter here.> I have a 3 boxed sump/fuge below. First is sump with skimmer (EuroReef RS135), second is return, third is fuge. I have the pvc outlet tube T-d with some of the water diverting to the fuge at a slow rate. The return pump is a Mag 9.5 directly in the return part of the sump. <OK, 950gph at the head.> I seriously need to get more flow, as I have a huge Cyano problem that never goes away. <Yes, that 950 is probably around 800gph in your tank.> I have scoured the site about CL systems. Since the tank is "live", I can't drill any new bulkheads. I don't want any 'U' tubes going over the tank top for fear of leakage. I am thinking that my best option is to get a submersible pump and put it directly in the tank, maybe behind some of the live rocks to conceal it. I am not sure what size PVC I should use for my manifold, nor how many T-s to have for direction of output water, nor what size diameter the T-s should be. I was thinking of just getting some PVC and T-s from Home Depot and making something up. I would like the T-s to be directional. I also don't know what kind or size pump I should get. <With two one inch ID drains you should have the capacity to go with a larger return pump, somewhere around 1200gph. This would give you the flow rate you require. You may consider getting a SCWD (Switching Current Water Director) you can mount to your return line which will give you an alternating current effect. Another way to go is to add a couple of powerheads in your tank. A good match would be two Aquarium Systems 1200 powerheads with a Hydor FLO Rotating Deflector mounted to each. With shipping, you would only have about 65.00 invested. Drs Foster/Smith has the best prices on both items. I use this system and it works quite well.> Much thanks, <You're welcome. James (Salty Dog)> Dan "Salty" not getting it... "<With two one inch ID drains you should have the capacity to go with a> larger return pump, somewhere around 1200gph. This would give you the flow rate you require. You may consider getting a SCWD (Switching Current Water Director) you can mount to your return line which will give you an> alternating current effect. Another way to go is to add a> couple of powerheads in your tank. A good match would be two Aquarium> Systems 1200 powerheads with a Hydor FLO Rotating Deflector mounted to> each. With shipping, you would only have about 65.00 invested. Drs> Foster/Smith has the best prices on both items. I use this system and it> works quite well.>> Much thanks,> <You're welcome. James (Salty Dog)> "> > > I don't think you're getting through to him. Eric< < <James... let's chat re this/our physical universe... have you actually seen/tried to get this much water through 1" ID lines? BobF>> Re: Manifold Closed Loop Question, Circulation, des.  12/12/07 Ok. If I upgrade my Mag 9.5 return pump, what brand(s) would you recommend? <I'd probably go with a Quiet One Model 6000 (1500gph), on sale at Drs. Foster/Smith for 98 bucks.> Can you explain how a SCWD works and how it connects? I am unfamiliar. Brand recommendation? <Go here, will give you a good idea how it works and you can read reviews of users. http://www.marinedepot.com/ps_ViewItem.aspx?idproduct=3Q1111> If I go the powerhead route, where would the best place to mount them be? Opposite corners of the tank? <If you use the Hydor Rotating Deflectors, I'd place a third of the way in on each side of tank. These units spread the flow close to 180 degrees. If not, place the heads in corners. Here is a description of this device. http://www.marinedepot.com/ps_ViewItem~SearchStr~flo%20rotating%20water%20deflector~ action~view~idProduct~HD01401~idCategory~FIWMIW~category~Hydor_FLO_Rotating_Water_Deflector_ Saltwater_Aquarium_Supplies_Wavemakers_Internal~vendor~.html James (Salty Dog)> Dan

Closed loop concerns. RMF Too    7/25/07 Hi, I am setting up an SPS grow tank with an old 75g. I want to use a closed loop system with five return to the main tank and one feeding a 55g fuge. <... where will the water be drawn to feed these? Oh, I see this below... Will the pump in the 'fuge be able to keep up with the added water discharged via the closed loop there?> I will be using a return pump pushing about 3000 gph. My questions are, would I restrict flow if I used 3/4" returns? and, I plan on using two 2" drains from the 75g, would this be enough? Thank you for your help, James. <The plumbing sizes ought to work out here... but am lost as to your logic for discharge into the fuge. I would NOT add the discharge there... unless this is part of the general circulation pattern... with the refugium higher than the main/display tank, your relying on gravity to return the water to the main tank. BobF>

Re: Closed loop concerns.   8/26/07 Sorry, I should have been more clear. The 55g fuge will be above the 75g grow tank, gravity feeding into the display. <Ahhh! I see... good> I will be using a 40 breeder as the sump. I do not like to combine the sump and refugium, I have found many advantages to placing the fuge above the display. <Yes... we're in agreement on both> So the setup will be three tanks stacked on top of each other, the 55g mud filter/refugium on top, then the 75g grow tank in the middle, followed by the 40 breeder on the bottom. I will be using a 400w MH on the 75g and two 150w MH's on the 55g. The pump located in the 40g will push five returns to the 75g and one to the 55g all 3/4". The 55g will drain through a 1 1/2" bulkhead to the 75g, then the whole system will drain via two 2" drains to the 40g. <Mmmm, these two 2" lines will NOT accommodate 3k gallons of gravity flow per hour... I'd devise some sort of stop-gap/failsafe measure/s here... a third, higher placed overflow of size... perhaps a horizontal "box" arrangement (on the 75)... electronic/water detection switch/solenoid to turn the pump down/off should there be trouble (as in overflow)...> Any recommendations would be greatly appreciated, I am writing because I value your opinions, and have learned more than I ever thought possible from your site. Thank you, James. <A pleasure to share. BobF>

Closed Loop on 75 Gal. Hi there crew! <Afternoon Dave> My question is about a 75 Gal tank I'm setting up. I plan to have FOWLR, with some soft and LPS corals. <I think FOWLR will shortly be substituted with Reef by the soundsheee!> I bought the tank used from a guy with SPS corals, and it has been drilled in 5 spots, and is reef ready right rear overflow with two 1" drains). I have a RIO 3100 for a return from the sump (this uses one of the five drilled bulkheads). I also have a GEN X PCX40, and a Coralife external pump both rated around 1000 gph w/ no head loss. I understand that this will be lower as I'm using 3/4" PVC. I've plumbed these using two bulkheads each (one supply, and one return for each pump) I want to run both of these for closed loop pumps, but during my freshwater leak test, I noticed that these pumps "suck" water so hard through their respective feed bulkheads, I'm afraid it'll eat all my livestock. I know I could use an elbow with a strainer, but do you think this is still too much flow without a box (overflow type) in front of the bulkhead? <This does sound quite an odd set-up. Are all the holes 3/4"? If so then I can only presume that they were all used as returns and non intakes, as you probably realise the intake should be larger than the return. Hmmm.. I would contact the previous owner RE how he had it set-up. It is possible that he had a strainer device coming over the tank to take water to a pump and then returned it through the 4 3/4" using possibly an OceansMotions device. You could go ahead with the configuration you are using and just add strainers but I am presuming they are all base drills (on the bottom of the tank) so this may not be practical. BobF if you could chime in with your thoughts><<Sounds good. RMF>> Thank You in advance, Dave. <Thank you and hope we can find the best solution, would definitely contact the previous owner though, Olly>

How many holes should be drilled in bottom of tank for a CL? Marine System Plumbing...A Need For Understanding - 04/26/07 I am ordering a 180-gal tank from GlassCages.com.  I want to do a closed-loop system similar to Naka's 180 tank on RC. <<And this is...?>> I am pretty much a newbie to reef tanks and started my 55-gal in October. <<Moving up fast, eh?>> I don't think I understand about the closed-loop system too much except that it could eliminate circulation pumps in the main tank and I want to do that. <<Indeed>> Right now I have a 27-gal refugium and a corner-drilled overflow.  Also a plenum and two Maxi-Jets to help circulation in the main tank.  My question is that I need a diagram of how a closed-loop would look and work. <<Easy enough...have a good look here, and do look/read among the indices in blue at the top of the pages:  http://www.wetwebmedia.com/pbh2oret.htm >> With the new tank I want to move the 'fuge and/or sump, chiller, skimmer, denitrifier, etc. to the garage and have the plumbing go in the crawl space to the garage about 10 feet away. <<Ahh, nice...will help dealing with that big and noisy pump you'll need to effectively power the closed-loop>> I just don't understand how many holes I should have drilled in the bottom of the tank to accomplish this and good circulation? Which of the holes are drains and which outlets? <<...?  You don't need to drill holes in the bottom of your tank to install a closed-loop mate.  Please refer to the diagram at the link provided>> I'm not going to use sand in my new tank. How does one keep any livestock from getting caught up in the drain outlets? <<Through the use of bulkhead screens/overflow boxes/etc.>> Thank you very much for any help you can give me. Georgia Sumner <<Georgia...before proceeding any further, I very much recommend you to spend a while reading/learning/comprehending the vast amount of information we have on plumbing marine systems.  Start with this article (http://www.wetwebmedia.com/plumbingmarart.htm), and yes...follow the links in blue at the top of the pages.  I'm here to help...so once you gain a better understanding of what is involved and what you want/need to do, feel free to write back to me to discuss further if you wish.  Regards, Eric Russell>>

Closed-Loop Nightmare...Its In the Design 05/03/07 Thank you in advance for your help. <<Im happy to assist>> I'm frustrated and don't know how to proceed. <<Oh?>> I have been building a 120-gallon reef tank and have done another fresh water test and cant seem to fix the problem.  I have a horizontal internal overflow that runs nearly the length of the back of the tank, with 4 1.5 inch drains and 2 1 inch returns. <<Sounds very nice>> 2 of the 1.5 inch drains go to my sump and refugium.  The other 2 1.5 inch drains come together with a wye to a 2 inch pipe that goes directly to my Reeflo Dart pump and back to a closed-loop manifold. <<Mmm, I think I know where this is going...>> The return pipe from the Dart starts off as a 1.5 inch and then is reduced to a 1 inch as it gets near the bulkhead.  From the bulkhead it is reduced again to a 3/4 inch pipe around the tank with 6 1/2 inch returns. <<Sounds like a good design for the return manifold>> When I just have the one pump on to my sump and refugium, everything works perfect.  Good flow, quiet, and no tiny air bubbles.  Perfect. <<Indeed>> However, when I turn on the Dart pump for the closed-loop, all hell breaks loose. <<Ah yes>> LOUD would be an understatement. <<Im sure>> Not the pump, the water flow. (this is in my bedroom, so quiet was the goal)  The water flowing through the gutter guard and over my overflow is like a faucet on high with so much flow going through it. <<Yep...just what I would expect>> Since the flow is so high its causing lots of bubbles in the overflow with it looks and sound like they are getting sucked down the drain, causing millions of tiny bubbles to come through the returns and every so often it sounds like the pump "stops" for a second, like it cavitates, the water flow stops and then instantly continues. <<Yes...from all the entrained air>> This is going to be a Acro tank, so I need the flow, but how can I control/stop the noise and bubbles. <<I do have a suggestion>> I've taken this thing apart too many times and almost done with this.  I dont think I can cut or glue any more PVC. <<Mmm...but will likely be necessary to rectify>> Any help would be greatly appreciated. <<Well Brian as you have noted, the high flow rate caused by the closed-loop being plumbed through the overflow is causing a massive rush of water in to the overflow chamber creating an abundance of turbulence and noise...and maybe...is also partly due to the overflow not being sized to handle this much flow.  Since this is a horizontal overflow, the option of using a modified standpipe to quiet things down/reduce bubbles is unlikely unless the design is deep enough to allow such.  That leaves you with plumbing the closed-loop outside the overflow chamber.  I think your best option is to drill the tank at some point below the horizontal overflow and install the throughput(s) to feed the pump for the closed-loop...and yes, will probably mean more cutting and solvent welding of PVC pipe>> Thank you, Brian <<Regards, EricR>>

Re: Closed-Loop Nightmare...Its In the Design 05/03/07 Thanks Eric for your quick reply. <<Quite welcome Brian>> What you are saying makes sense.  However, do you see any other way? <<Not short of reducing the amount of flow, at least not just "off-hand" Im afraid (sometimes theres just nothing like being there).  Perhaps a perusal of our plumbing FAQs would prove beneficial.  But if you are adamant about not drilling the tank I would recommend some experimentation with compact variations of the Durso or Stockman standpipe designs. Heres a link to a standpipe modified for use in a siphon overflow box that may be of help: http://www.aquariumlife.net/projects/diy-overflow/74.asp.  The challenge is to raise the internal water level of the overflow such that there is very little drop to create turbulence/bubbles within the box.  Noise may be more difficult to ameliorate as you are pushing/pulling more than 3000 gph through the closed-loop and just the sound of the water traveling through the piping may be too much for a bedroom installation...though you could try some of the insulation foam tubes meant to insulate outdoor/under-house water pipes to see if these help muffle the noise.  When I installed my large system in my living room, noise suppression was a major consideration in conjunction with the high water flow requirement...to which I turned to the Tunze Stream pumps for my solution>> I do not want to drill another hole in my tank; I figured 6 would be enough. <<Mmm, yes...I suspected this would be your response even as I wrote the earlier suggestion>> I had it made to order and shipped to me.  There is only 1 local fish store, and they don't do that kind of work. <<If the tanks back panel was not tempered after drilling, and you are a bit handy, it really is not all that difficult to do yourself.  In fact, if there is an aquarium club (fresh/salt/reef/whatever) in your area theres a good likelihood there is someone in the club who has drilled tanks that may be able/willing to assist you>> I ran my design past Bob Fenner before I had it custom made and Bob said it sounded like a good design, thats why I had the CL holes drilled in the overflow.  Here is the original email: <<I see this...and am certain the advice given was in earnest based on what was understood/perceived at the time.  If Bob has any other (better) suggestions/alternatives, Im sure he will add them to this post when it is placed on the Dailies page.  If I can be of further assistance you know where to find me.  Eric Russell>> <Indeed... the pumping through the proposed lines is greater than I imagined would be employed. RMF>

Setting up flow for a square LPS tank   3/21/07 Hi Crew - <James> Great website, I spend entirely too much time researching in your archives. I apologize in advance for this long email. <No worries. Communicating effectively often takes time> I am setting up a new tank (well, it's been up and running in some capacity for a few months) that will house LPS corals almost exclusively (will also include one Monti. cap., a few mushroom corals and some xenia, for example), and I was hoping for some opinions on a closed loop system. The tank inner dimensions are almost square, at ~31.5"x27"x20" LxWxH, with an internal overflow on one of the 27" sides. Approximately 65-70 gallons in the display tank. I am using a 20 gallon sump with a very small (~5 gallon) refugium. All flow right now is from the return pump - a mag7 if my memory is right (possibly a mag5). So obviously it is very light circulation in the tank. I have attached a very rough sketch of the tank layout, the live rock layout is pretty close to this though. <I see it. Think the arrows on the overflow need to be reversed> The few corals in the tank right now are a frogspawn (new branches showing), pulsing xenia, hairy mushroom (Rhodactis indosinensis?), Montipora capricornis. Future corals are... unknown. We haven't developed a full livestock list yet, although my fiancé is very much drawn to LPS that "wave" in the current. Any suggestions? <Mmm, all posted on WWM. I'd be reading re the "Systems" and "Compatibility" for all listed, considered> Back to the original question -- I would like to set up a closed loop in the system. My goal in this design was to try to replicate the back-and-forth wave motion in the ocean - the kind that "gently" moves you 3 feet back and forth as you snorkel - and also vary the strength of flow across the display to accommodate varied coral species and their preferences. <Okay> My thought was to try to create flow in the tank in a circular pattern, regularly switching the direction of the flow to create some turbulence. This was in part inspired by the January 2007 article by Jake Adams in the Advanced Aquarists Online Magazine. To accomplish this I considered using a device similar to an Oceans Motion (OM) valve, piped to the four corners of the tank in two circuits. If you reference the attached sketch, I show the four outlets. I haven't worked out any details with Paul @ OM yet, but I see two options with his current devices -- 30 seconds of flow in circuit one (counterclockwise), switching rapidly to 30 seconds of flow through circuit two (clockwise). Or, if I pipe two of the four OM ports back to the pump inlet, I could create 15 seconds of flow in circuit one, 15 seconds of rest, 15 seconds of flow through circuit two, 15 seconds of rest, etc. <Yes> What are your thoughts? Is there a more effective way for me to create appropriate flow conditions in the tank? Am I way off base here? Thanks!! Jim <I do think your proposal has merit, and am a fan of such closed loop designs... but don't think there is "that much" to be gained by stopping, reversing flow patterns in such small volumes as this... That the loss of flow during switching isn't worth the benefits of leaving the water going in the one direction. Having spent years on reefs on this planet, I assure you that many of the stocks folks keep in such "garden arrangements" live in "one way flow" settings... I myself would set up the plumbing arrangement as you illustrate and pretty much leave the water discharges fixed in their orientation, "blowing" basically a angles to each other, two more toward mid-depth, the opposing two more at the surface. Bob Fenner>

Closed-Loop Manifold Design Review (Anthony Calfo) 03/06/07 Dear Anthony / WWM crew, <<EricR here...Im afraid Antoine has moved on to other enterprises and no longer fields queries here...but hopefully I can be of assistance to you...>> Im in the process of setting up a 45-gallon tank that is 24X24 and 18 high.  I have a center back overflow, which due to a miscommunication now only has a 1 drain and a ¾ return as opposed to a 1.5 drain and ¾ return that Id hoped for. <<Mmm, indeed unfortunate...but still a workable configuration>> This tank is intended for Frogspawn and Candy Cane corals only, so Im shooting for about 500gph flow through the 1 drain and a 15 gallon sump. <<Is possible...but I always recommend about 300-350 gph maximum flow through a 1 gravity to simplify plumbing hassles (noise, et al)>> Ive narrowed my pump choices to either an Iwaki 20RLXT that will flow 450gph or a Gorman Rupp GRI 510 that will flow 550gph according to Reef Centrals flow calculator. <<Hmm, not the manufacturers stated flow rates...Ill assume this is the flow rate you have figured based on your plumbing configuration then.  Both are good pumps...with the GRI being pressure-rated and this particular Iwaki model not.  I think considering your 1 drain, I would opt for the Iwaki...and do be sure to plumb a gate-valve on the output side of the pump to temper flow as/if necessary>> The top opening of the tank is 17X16 and Im planning to have either 6 or 8 outlets from a ¾ manifold running along the perimeter of the opening. <<On a separate pump/closed-loop I hope?  Eight outlets from a ¾ manifold will require at least 4800 gph after head-loss (based on 600 gph per outlet to achieve meaningful flow)...and way too much for this tank as well. With the return pumps you have listed, you are limited to two ½ nozzles at most...and even then I dont think the flow from each nozzle will be vigorous>> a)       Do I have too may outlets? <<Yes indeed>> Im not sure how to balance flow per outlet with number of outlets.  Would I be better off with 4 outlets? <<Not really...the 1 drain on this tank can not handle the flow required to power a multi-nozzle return manifold.  If your goal is to keep powerheads out of this tank then your best option...in my opinion...is to plumb a separate closed-loop, or go with the two 1/2 nozzles as I previously suggested.  Which, considering your stocking plan, would likely be just fine>> b)       According to Reef Centrals flow calculator, changing the 90-degree bends to 45-degree bends has an insignificant effect on flow rate!!!???  Doesnt make sense? <<Mmm...their calculator also says you can flush 600 gph down that 1 gravity drain [grin].  I guess it depends on your definition of insignificant...but I definitely think easing the turns in the plumbing helps>> c)       Im planning on using an Aqua Silencer standpipe and I cant decide between the 1 version and the 1.5 version with an adapter to fit my 1 bulkhead <<These devices generally work better if slightly larger than the plumbing lines...I would use the 1.5 device if it will fit your overflow box>> d)       Is 550gph too much for my tank given the size and livestock? <<Not in my opinion>> Thank you for your help, Narayan Raja <<A pleasure to assist.  Eric Russell>>

Re: Closed-Loop Manifold Design Review (Anthony Calfo) 03/07/07 Thanks Eric! <<Quite welcome Narayan>> But I was hoping for at least 3 nozzles, min of 450gph and no powerheads in the tank. <<I understand...but at this flow rate you will be sorely disappointed with the output from three nozzles>> I have room to enlarge my drain bulkhead to a 1.25" size, but there is no such thing that I could find in schedule-40 bulkhead fittings unfortunately.  Is there such a thing...? <<Have a look at USPLASTIC.COM...they do have 1.25 bulkhead fittings>> Having a second pump and a closed-loop is complicated since my stand will have very little room left after the sump, pump and ballast. <<I see>> I forgot to mention one little detail -the 4" DSB which will reduce the tank water volume to 31 gallons + sump and it is for the DSB primarily that I'm concerned about having adequate flow... Sorry. <<No worries mate...and a valid concern re the DSB.  Perhaps you wont have a choice about adding a powerhead or two...>> Thank You, Narayan Raja <<Always welcome.  EricR>>

Return Manifold and Pump Size? - 03/03/07 Hello to all and thanks in advance, <<Howdyand youre welcome>> In an effort to rid me tank of annoying power heads and lower temps I am building a closed-loop water return manifold in my 55 gal tank (48l x 12w x 20h). <<Ok>> The tank is un-drilled so until I move out of this limiting apartment and upgrade I am sumpless (I refuse to use an overflow box with J or U tube because I would like my security deposit back when I leave). <<Heeindeed!>> I am building the system out of ¾ in. PVC tubing and fittings, and going down to ½ in. at the 45 degree elbows coming out of the Ts.  There will be 10 outlets (4 on the front and back and 1 on each side) with at least 3 or 4 of these being plugged up to allow for changes in flow when needed later on. <<Ahgood idea>> The pump is either going to be directly behind the tank for 0 head or on the floor below with 53 in. of head pressure needed. 1- I am trying to find out what size pump would be needed for something like this.  I am thinking in the 1200 to 1500 GPH range. <<Figure at least 250 gph per ½ nozzle, plus another 20% for the eventual bio-film buildup in the manifold piping and this means you need a pump that will provide a minimum of 1800gph after head-loss (This is assuming only six of the ten nozzles will be open at any one timeotherwise calculate as necessary)>> 2- Do you think this will be adequate or overkill? <<Will need to be a bit more in my opinion.  But do be sure to plumb a gate-valve on the output side of the pump to temper flow if needed>> The tank houses 4 damsels and a blue spotted sharp nose puffer (I know he is not reef safe but he is oh so cute and has yet to even looked twice at any of the corals  <<yet>>), various inverts and some corals (whose numbers seem to be increasingahh the addiction) 3- Also in purchasing the pump should I be purchasing one rated for pressure or one for free flowing circulation? <<I would consider a pressure-rated pump for the closed-loopthough a large enough non pressure-rated pump will work>> I am looking at the Japanese Iwaki pumps for more than one reason, choices are:  the MD40RLXT which is a circulating pump rated at 1,200 GPH, and either the MD55RLT for pressure rated at 1,080 GPH or MD70RLT 1,500 GPH.  What do you think of these choices? <<All great pumps but  The 70RLT should work if youre willing to cap off a one or two more nozzles than originally planned, but I think you would be better off getting the 100RLT for your planned configuration>> 4- Considering heat transfer and electrical usage do you think it is worth my time to also be looking at MAG drive pumps? <<The Japanese motored Iwaki pumps are fairly economical to run and also surprisingly cool in my experience and would be my preference here>>   I wont be having any other pumps running except the MAG 3 drive that is on my AquaC Remora Pro protein skimmer.  I would rather not be paying an arm and leg each month to run the tank, but I also dont want to make soup of my tank with super high temps, especially come summer time. <<Understood.  Dont discount the effectiveness of evaporative coolinginstall a couple fans to blow across the surface of the tank to help keep water temperatures down>> Once again thank you, Randy <<Happy to share.  EricR>>

Plumbing/closed loop question   2/6/07 Thank you in advance for your input.  I've been reading this site for weeks straight and I have learned a great deal, along with a pounding headache <I don't like this> and a little more confusion. Every expert gives a little bit of a twist on the same ideas based on their preferences. <Oh, a matter of your selecting the "wheat from chaff"...> I'm getting ready to order my new tank. it will be a 125 gal 4x2x2 tank with mostly SPS corals. I keep debating on the size and number of overflows. <Mmm, likely 2, likely of 1 1/2" nominal ID> I wanting 20x at minimum flow (2500 gph) in the tank by way of returns from sump and closed loop. <Maybe three then...> I do not want any powerheads in the tank like my 70g.  I also do not want to make the mistake of not putting the correct number or size of overflows in the tank.  I'm leaning towards the vertical califlo overflows at the top. My 2nd major issue is that due to lack of floor space, this tank will be in my bedroom, so I need to keep noise to a minimum. <Then avoid the verticals...> I was thinking 4 1.5" drains.  3 going to the sump and one going directly to a pump for the closed loop. <More than one... I'd make this two/three and two to the sump> For my returns having drilled 2 1 inch returns.  One from the pump in the sump split into two and one to tie into the closed loop. <... I would NOT tie these together. Run them back independently> Am I on the right path? <Nope... how will the water know which way to go?> I haven't drilled the tank yet, so any configuration is possible, just looking for the best in your opinion. <Is posted on WWM> From what I've read it seems that one pump inside the sump and external pump for the closed loop seem to be the most popular, or would you recommend to external pumps, remembering the low noise is key for the bedroom. <I like external pumps of good quality... less money to run, less waste heat... and better ones are quite quiet> One of my concerns is that even a verily large pump like the MD55RLT Japanese Motored Iwaki Water Pump  only pumps 1080 gph with a 4ft head. Assuming 1/2 outlets on closed loop needing approx 300 gph each that would only be approx 3 openings when i need more like 6 or 8. <Then...>   How in the heck can I get enough water flow without going to a monster of a pump which would surely be very loud for a bedroom.  Also, if I go with a larger pump, wouldn't i need a larger than a 1.5 inch bulkhead? <I would not... perhaps two pumps of this size... Or settling on the one...> Any help would be greatly appreciated. Thanks again, Brian <Bob Fenner>

Re: plumbing/closed loop question  2/7/07 Well Mr. Fenner, thank you for the quick response, but I think the pounding headache had the best of me when I typed some of the info.  I had it in my head, it just came out wrong.  Sorry <No worries... am/was just concerned re your health> I meant to saw califlo horizontal overflow, not vertical, running across the top/back, which would provide more surface skimming and less noise.  Is that better? <Mmm, noise-wise, clarity-wise, yes> Also, i misstated the returns, I wasn't planning on tying the sump and closed loop together.  Let me clarify. <Please do> I'm looking at 4 1.5 inch drains drilled into the tank inside the internal horizontal overflow.  Two of the drains to go to the sump and have one pump return it to the 1 one inch bulkhead in that same horizontal overflow and then use your standard loc line to disperse into tank.  The other 2 1.5 inch drains coming out of the horizontal overflow being T together and going directly to a pump and back to the closed loop. Does this sound any better?   <Ah, yes. Much> Also on the closed loop return, do you suggest coming over the back of the tank or could a drill another 1" bulkhead into that same internal horizontal overflow box and start my closed loop from there. <Mmm, well... if you're already drilling... I'd make these through-puts rather than over-the-top lines. Bob Fenner>

Closed loop design   2/6/07 I'm planning the setup for a new 240G reef tank. In my 90 I always seemed to have dead spots. I have been talking to Paul at oceans motions and we may have come up with a very novel system. I just wanted everyone's opinion on whether this system will work and if the flow will indeed flow where am planning. So the plan is to have to intakes to the pump. A and B. <I would mount these much closer to the surface... likely no more than four inches in depth down... Not where queried... too much chance of disaster should there be a line failure...> and have an OM valve controlling it. <No need practically. Just screen both intakes> The output will then go onto a 4 way. <In a 240... both stock sizes are eight feet long... I'd increase the number of discharges by twice... four more along the back... with Loc-tite or equivalent discharge fittings to direct flow> The plan is that water will be sucked from A and pumped back through 1 and 3, then the valve will change, in 30s the B valve will be open, A will be closed and the water will be directed to 4 and 2. <Again... I would not spend the money on such an arrangement... More to be gained by steady flow of good strength through all outlets> This cycle continues every minute. So hope fully the water is been blown to where its been sucked from, and this will reverse. Having a bidirectional flow through the tank. Thoughts. Thanks in advance for your valuable input Olly <A tank/system of this size does not call for such an oscillating arrangement (much larger ones can)... I would take a few hours to read over WWM re such designs, along with plumbing, fitting choices. Bob Fenner>

Re: closed loop, des.  2/9/07 Bob, thanks again for your input. I guess it is easier to get a laminar flow, but from what I have read (elsewhere and on WWM) its better to have surge or random flow for reef (SPS, LPS tank). This was basically my idea at creating a surge device, as it will be sucking and blowing backward and forward. <Understood... as stated, there's not that much to be gained in actuality in "hobby size" volumes from such> I know there are many devices out there such as the wave2k are you saying all of these are basically a waste? <More show than go so to speak, yes> The cost of this system am proposing will not be much more than a single wave2k and generate significantly more flow. I was also confused by your reply about mounting the intakes higher up, as this would defeat the object of getting top to bottom water flow. <Again... simple experiments show that there is more than sufficient mixing with mounting all intakes and discharges near the surface... The real fear/issue is the too-inevitable break in lines/plumbing... intentional and not... and the trouble/s with the water running out to the level of these through-puts... You'll see, he stated prophetically> There is no (little to none) risk of a disaster as this is a CLOSED LOOP for it to fail a join must fail and that can happen no matter how it is plumbed. <Agreed in a/the absolute sense... but what would you rather have as the total volume on your floor? If you have a fail-safe (drain) design, or little care/regard for this possibility, so be it> Maybe I didn't explain the design thoroughly enough. <Oh... you did an admirable job... Your graphic is very clear> Thanks again anyway I think am now more confused than before I was really trying to create a simple system, just a little different from the tank>sump>tank setup of laminar flow. thanks Olly <Understood... and no fault to the "wave making" tools of present... I am just of the opinion that they are more gimmicks than functional... the loss of flow from their switching isn't worth their use IMO is all. Cheers, Bob Fenner>

Using A Manifold With An Eheim Canister Filter 1/10/07 Hi crew! <Hello Laura.> I read through the info on the Goodbye Powerheads article and was wondering if this manifold idea would work if I built it and ran it out from the return on my Eheim 2028 canister filter (rather than having to add another pump to my already crowded 55 gal. reef tank).  What do you think? <Laura, the Eheim pump that is incorporated into the filter will more than likely not develop enough pressure to use a manifold with it.  The Eheims usually come with a spray bar option, and this is what I would use.> And also, does this manifold really allow a tank to flourish without the use of all these powerheads? <It does help to eliminate dead spots in the system, and yes, can take the place of several powerheads if the pump is sized correctly.  Do search our site on this subject for more info.> I will admit I am a bit skeptical, but I'd love to give it a try if I can eliminate them! Thanks so much for this wonderful site and your expert advice! <You're welcome, and thank you for writing us.  James (Salty Dog)> Laura

Closed-Loop Or Not? 01/03/07 Greetings to all, and a Happy New Year. <<Howdy Bill...Happy New Year>> After a long delay, I finally have my new tank and stand in position. <<Neat!>> It is an All Glass 180 gallon with the Mega Flow system. <<A misnomer if there ever was one...>> When all is done it will be a Reef tank. <<cool>> I used a Dremel, and cut out the 'teeth' on the overflows, and siliconed black plastic gutter guard in its place.  Converted the drain pipes to Dursos and upped the returns to 1 instead of 3/4". <<All good>> My 'plan' it so use 2 pumps for the returns, with one pump running for 5 to 6 hours, then the other coming on for the same duration creating a left then right flow. <<Interesting...and possibly a long enough interval so as to not greatly foreshorten the life of the pumps>> I'm at a stand still in my plumbing process though--my questions are--do I want to add a closed-loop, or hang a Tunze in the middle of the back, pointing towards the front. <<Mmm...the closed-loop will offer greater flow options...but the quality, efficiency, and ease of installation of the Tunze is hard to ignore>> If I do a closed-loop, I'm thinking of placing it on the tank bottom with the outlets sticking up just out of the substrate--which would be best in your opinion ?? <<Cant say Ive ever seen/heard of this but the idea of it is intriguing.  Assumably the force/flow of water would prevent any blockages from occurring...just be sure to install the manifold and pump as a true closed-loop (will require drilling the tank) to preclude draining the tank empty in the event of a power outage.  As to which is best (Tunze or closed-loop) that will depend on the needs/particulars of your tank, the size/location of the closed-loop pump vs. the Tunze pump, and your sense of aesthetics.  Using my own situation as an example...I was unable to employ a pump with enough flow to run a closed-loop for my tank (375g...predominantly Acroporids) and still stand to be in the same room (in-wall design...no basement/fish room), so I opted for the Tunze Stream pumps to get the volume of flow I was looking for yet still be able to hold a conversation without yelling, watch the telly, etc.  An added bonus is the power savings...the Tunze pumps really are power misers.  The downside is the look of these rather large pumps in the tank>> I have searched your site and can't find what seems to be the preferred circulation  method. <<Ah yes, all a matter of opinion, likes/dislikes...not exactly comparing apples to apples here.  My preferred method (the Tunze pumps) may not be the same for the next person.>> Once I get this figured out, I'll place my order for my Live Rock, and begin the cycling process.  I have my RO/DI set up and running, 100gpd, and it is being stored in 2 96-gallon Rubbermaid trash cans, one feeding the other.  The tank will drain into a 40-gallon breeder, that will be the refugium, and that will gravity drain into the sump, my old 90-gallon Cichlid tank, (these are in the basement, behind the wall where the display tank is). I also have my lighting ready to go when needed too.  What are your thoughts ??? <<The description sounds fine.  I especially like the refugium draining via gravity to the sump (is what mine does), but be sure to have this drain directly to the return pump chamber to preclude excessive loss of beneficial organisms to the skimmer (you will employ a skimmer I hope).  As for going with a closed-loop or the Tunze pump...that decision is yours.  Both methods can/do work well with proper application/design/placement.  Is one better than the other?  Not really...they both have their place...more often than not it comes down to what is the most practical...in my humble opinion>> Thanking you in advance for your time, Bill Fletcher <<A pleasure to share.  Eric Russell>> Closed-Loop Confusion (Maybe Just Me...ER) 11/27/06 Hello crew, <<Hello Brandon>> I have read the works of Anthony Calfo posted on WetWebMedia and have found them very enlightening. <<Indeed>> They have inspired me to throw out my power heads and go for a closed-loop water flow system using an "exterior" pump. <<Cool!>> I have a question or two (or four) that I wanted to direct to you, I hope you do not mind. <<Not a bit...shoot>> To run my water flow system in my 55 Gallon, I will be using a Mag 9.5 pump located in the sump.  Since my overflow box will not support that high of water output (I flooded my living room the first time I tried) I have decided to run it in a closed system. <<For my own clarification...do you mean you will use the MAG 9.5 pump for the closed-loop, and a smaller pump for the sump?>> I will be running 3/4" PVC pipe from the main tank to the refuge which will hold the 9.5 and then pump it up 3/4" tubing back up to the tank. <<Things are still a bit muddy here...first you mention a sump, and now you mention a refugium...is the refugium a separate vessel from the sump? I am following Anthony's example on setting up PVC pipe at the top of the tank with 5-8 output points (3 on the front 2 on each side and maybe 2-3 in the back for further expansion.) <<This is too many outlets for the size pump you will be using.  To assure adequate velocity at the nozzles, you should figure one ½ nozzle for every 250 gph of flow, or one ¾ nozzle for every 350 gph of flow...calculating the usable flow after head loss.  With the MAG 9.5, Im guessing youll only have enough flow for two or three 1/2 nozzles, maybe two 3/4 nozzles.  Its my opinion you will need a bigger pump>> My questions to you are this: 1) Will a 9.5 pump be able to produce enough flow to these 5-8 output points? <<Not even close>> 2) Would the system still work if I ran 2 PVC tubes down each back corner of the tank with an output?  I figure this would eliminate any dead spots and give me some laminar flow around the aquascaping. <<About all you can expect with this pump>> 3) Should I scale down the fittings at each point from 3/4" to 1/2" to create greater pressure? <<This will help...but you will still only be able to utilize three nozzles at most on the return manifold>> Or do I run the risk of creating too much back pressure for the 9.5 and risk ruining the pump? <<Not at all.  These magnetic pumps are designed to work/function fine with backpressure.  Just be aware the MagDrive pumps are not pressure rated and will lose flow-rate with increased back pressure>> 4) What do you suggest that I cover the uptake tube with to prevent any livestock from being sucked away to a fast death but that will not limit the uptake water flow? (Again remember that I can not run the pump off the sump water due to the slow rate of flow in the overflow box.) <<The screens used for bulkhead fittings work nicely here>> I am "new" to plumbing so I am feeling this out as I go along.  Any suggestions or help would be a great help. <<Do make sure you are comfortable with/understand the hydrodynamics of a closed-loop before proceeding (write back for further clarification/explanation if need be)...and use my recommendations for sizing your pump/pipe/number of nozzles>> Have a great Holiday weekend, Brandon Gray <<And to you in kind.  Eric Russell>>

Closed-Loop Manifold Design - 03/06/06 Hi- <<Hello>> I'm researching my first Aquarium (will be reef with an emphasis on SPS, LPS and Clams and eventually a few fish). <<Okay>> I find WetWebMedia invaluable.   <<Thanks...me too!>> I'm pretty settled on a 90 gallon tank and a 22 gallon sump with about 110 lb. of LR and a 4 inch oolithic <<or maybe oolitic>> sand bed. Would like to shoot for 14-15 times water flow and have definitely decided on the Water Return Manifold shown in Anthony Calfo's article. <<Ahh...excellent>> I am a bit confused however, and hope you can straighten me out. <<Uh oh...be careful what you ask for <grin>.>> The article states "...we need a dedicated supply of water here. Obey the manufacturer's recommendations for line size."  Is Anthony referring to the pump manufacturer's recommendations for line size? <<Yes>> Would that be different from the pump outlet size? <<Unless otherwise stated by the manufacturer, you are usually safe to match your pipe size the inlet/outlet sizes.>> I am considering using an Iwaki MD70RLT and the outlet is  one inch. <<Matching pipe to outlet size is fine for these pumps.>> I like his ideas for finessing the flow with valves and nozzles, especially since my reef will change significantly as the corals grow. <<Indeed>> He  mentions using "Flexible Ball-Socket Joint Tubing."  and that it can be connected to PVC.  Is that Loc Line?   <<Yep>> Anthony goes on to write "home aquariums of a couple of hundred  gallons or less will likely use 1" or 3/4" pipe". <<Mmm...or even 1/2" to maximize water velocity.>> Loc-Line's largest parts are 3/4 inch and there are no T connectors available in 3/4 inch.  There are plenty of valves and Nozzles available in 3/4.  So what I'm really asking is can a Iwaki MD70RLT with a 1" outlet be used to deliver water to my tank though 3/4" Loc-Line hose and can the hose be T-d with PVC? <<Yes it can.  Likely you will need to bush the outlets down to 3/4" (or even 1/2") anyway to provide enough water velocity.>> And most importantly will it do the necessary job. <<Yes...if you have done all your homework and configured it correctly <G>.>> Thank you for your patience. Ed <<A pleasure to assist Ed.  Regards, EricR>>

Return Manifolds/Horizontal Overflow...Closed-Loop Design - 07/30/06 WWM crew, <<Hello John>> Thank you for the wonderful website and wonderful dedication to this hobby/passion! <<A collective effort...quite welcome>> I am researching designs for a new tank.  From reading Mr. Calfo's Book of Coral Propagation and WWM, I very much like Mr. Calfo's ideas of a return manifold and an internal horizontal overflow. <<Ah, yes...am familiar with this design>> Maybe I am just dense, anyway I am having difficultly visualizing how the two techniques would work together along the back wall of the aquarium. <<Well, let's see if I can help>> Would one just not have return nozzles on the back wall, if so it seems as if this would make the goal of random turbulent water flow more difficult? Could you please enlighten me? <<Mmm...the nozzles can be wherever you want them.  No need to follow Antoines example to the letter.  You can position a couple nozzles at each back corner and; using ell fittings that are "not" cemented on, swivel these as needed to direct flow.  And do keep in mind here...using a return manifold in this manner (fed through the sump with a gravity overflow), you will very likely not be able to push enough water to drive more than a couple/few nozzles with any real velocity.  In my opinion, the return manifold is better suited to a closed-loop installation if the desire is for vigorous random-turbulent flow>> Also I was wondering your thoughts on connecting a SCWD to two halves of a manifold return (i.e.- the manifold would not be a single closed-loop; it would be two halves). <<Is doable.  But re my previous comment, this is not truly a "closed-loop" system if you are using the gravity overflow/sump in-line with the manifold>> I was thinking that this might assist in creating a wave/surge action in the tank. <<Possibly...if this is a rather small tank and you use a pump that maximizes the SCWD's capacity>> One FAQ seem to suggest that the single closed-loop would be better with or without a SCWD.  Your thoughts? <<A "continuous" single loop would render the SCWD a moot point as all the nozzles would still be in play, the SCWD would only be changing the direction from which the water enters the loop>> Finally, I am researching tanks and manufacturers.  If I implement the above ideas, I will need to have the back wall of the tank drilled (not the floor obviously). <<For Anthony's full-length weir design, yes>> I can not seem to find any manufacturers who will drill the back wall. <<Hmm...may have to resort to a "custom" builder>> Does this have to be a custom job at a glass company or a DIY job for those of brave heart?  Suggestions? <<Maybe order the tank through your LFS and have "them" customize it for you.  Another thought is to go to the hobby forums (e.g.- RC, reefs.org) and post a query there re tank manufacturers willing to drill the back of the tank>> Thank you! John Bullard <<Quite welcome.  Eric Russell>>

Closed-Loop Design/Stocking a 120 FOWLR - 09/22/06 Eric, Randy here again. <<Hey Randy!>> Well,  I'm making progress on the 120 FOWLR project w/55 fuge/sump and have a few more questions. <<Okay>> I read on WWM almost every night and get lots of info, but unsure on a few things. <<Let's see if I can help "clear things up">>    First, regarding my 120.  I went ahead and had it drilled with 4  1-1/2" bulkheads. <<Excellent>> 2  1-1/2's will feed my 55 sump/fuge.  I plan on using a MAG 9.5 that I have for the return w/4-5" of head.  Does the 9.5 sound like it will be enough for the sump flow (before you say I need more flow, please read further about my closed loop flow)?   <<No worries my friend...will be fine as the "return" pump>>    Second, this is where I need your help.  BTW: I have read a lot on the closed-loops and Anthony's article on the closed-loop.  I see that there are many different ways. <<Indeed>> My plan for the closed-loop is: The other 2  1-1/2" bulkheads I plan to "T" together and run into my Iwaki WMD30RXLT.  It will be mounted so it will only have 1 or 2' of head. <<Ok>>   -From the 1" output on the Iwaki, what is best?     -Should I run it into one closed-loop above the tank that will have 6 to 8  1" overhead "T's" with 3/4" flex?   -Should I run it into one dead-end loop (I know, then it's not a loop) above the tank that will have 6 to 8  1" overhead "T's" with 3/4" flex?   -Should I run either a closed-loop or a dead end perimeter with 6-8 outputs?   -Should the above tank manifold be 3/4" or 1" with the Iwaki 30RXLT pump?     -Is the Iwaki WMD30RXLT a good choice and fit for this loop idea?   -Is there a better design idea with my 2  1-1/2" for the loop flow? <<Okay Randy, the first option is best/the most simple but I think I need to make something clear here.  The size a and number of "outlets" on the closed-loop determine the size of the pump required...and vise-versa>>  With 6 to 8 3/4" outlets you will need a pump with a terminal output after head loss of at least 4,800 gallons per hour to produce enough "velocity" at each outlet to be useful.  Even if you reduce the outlet size to 1/2" you will still need about 2,800 gph.  With the pump you have now, you're looking at a closed-loop with a maximum of "two" 1/2" outlets (three "might" work, but I don't think you have "quite" enough flow re).  You need to figure about 350 gph per 1/2" nozzle/outlet, and 650-700 gph per 3/4" nozzle.  With two 1 1/2" bulkheads installed, you have the option of using two smaller pumps and plumbing separate closed-loops to each half of the tank>> And last, I'm thinking ahead about stocking.  Here are my thoughts and ideas I have also read some on this as of lately at WWM.  I will have about 100-120 lbs of LR in there.  Also, I have a 4.5" reef safe wrasse that I will add first.  He is in my 46 reef now.  I don't know what type he is but he is light green completely with several pinkish lines running horizontally across his face and body, all the way thru his tail. <<Do have a look through our articles on wrasse...especially the genus Halichoeres>> I want to add shrimp to the reef tank but they will be lunch with him around. <<Not necessarily, depends much on the species/individual personalities.  I have several wrasse species in my reef that cohabitate quite well with my cleaner and blood shrimp.  One thing to keep in mind when adding shrimp to "any" reef tank is to not just "drop them in" as you do food items but rather gently "place" them low in the rockwork where they can find refuge>>   I would like a large angel.  Is there one that I can sustain long term in the 4'x2'x2'  120 tank? (please say yes, I love the angels but have limited wall space).  I am thinking of the Annularis, French, Koran??  I need something beautiful, hardy and obviously, not to large.  Any thoughts.  Can you suggest one?  Price is almost, a main concern besides longevity (Inland Chicago area).   I know, I'm not asking for much!    <<The Pomacanthus annularis would be a fine choice...the other two get too large for this tank in my opinion>> I would like to add with the angel of choice, a dwarf flame angel, a yellow-eye Kole tang, a yellow tang, a sailfin tang or convict tang (I think that these are all different genera??). <<Mmm, three different genera (Ctenochaetus, Zebrasoma, and Acanthurus)...the yellow and sailfin tangs are of the same genera>> Should I only go with one tang? <<Exclude the sailfin altogether (gets too large here)...I think you could get by with a Kole tang and a Yellow tang...or the Convict tang on its own>>    A Foxface, and a butterfly (I don't know much about them, what do you recommend?) <<Several good choices, check out this article for best picks: http://www.wetwebmedia.com/BFsBestWrst.htm>> Can I add one or two tomato clowns or maroons clowns? <<Mmm, maybe...but pretty much "full-up" mate.  You need consider adult sizes of the fishes already selected>> I like the dogfaces but I read that they can emit a toxin?? <<Indeed...but again, your pushing/exceeding limits here>> I think the triggers are too aggressive, maybe a clown trigger?? <<Only of you want this to ultimately be the only macro-organism in this tank...  There are trigger species that would be suitable, but your past adding any of these at this point>> I don't want to stock it to the limit. <<Is about what you've done>> You kind of see the direction that I am going, what do you recommend? <<Have stated re>> Also, I know that the tangs and the Foxface pose a threat, but I would like to be able to stick my arm in the tank if needed without to much concern. <<Have both in my tank...remain vigilant and you won't have a problem>> I know that the Foxface will usually hide unless cornered. <<Will become "accustomed", even curious to your presence...but not likely to be an aggressive/overt threat>> No eels, lions, poisonous puffers! etc. etc etc... <<Hee!  No room for them!>> Thanks yet again for your time, help and devotion to our hobby. <<Is my pleasure to share>> WWM has become a one-stop-shopping reference tool for me, I love this site!  INFO, INFO, INFO!!! Thanks, Randy <<Be chatting my friend.  EricR>>

Closed-Loop Design 10/16/06 Hi Bob, <<EricR here today>> I have a 72x28x18 reef tank, planning to keep SPS.  Was thinking of having a closed-loop system with a Dart Supreme 3600 gal/hr. <<Sounds good>> What are your suggestions for the plumbing?  I mean , where do you think I should position the outlet and the inlets?  I was thinking of having the inlet at the back panel, about 1/3 the way from the bottom and the outlets at the sides of the tank, with one of them slightly lower than the other !!  I will appreciate your opinion. Thank you, Ramy <<This could work fine, or you could fashion a return manifold for the outlets.  Check out this article by Anthony Calfo re ( http://www.wetwebmedia.com/pbh2oret.htm) and be sure to read among the linked files at the top of the page.  Regards, EricR>>

Closed loop idea, need some advice  - 10/28/06 Hey Guy's /Girl's of WWM, here's is my idea for my closed loop set-up on my 125 gallon tank. I will also have two additional returns coming from the sump/ refuge [return pump] out the overflow's in addition to this idea. want to used 2 SCWD WAVEMAKERS. I know their max pressure is 1400 gph so take a look at the pump gph and tell me if you think this would Work. <Mmm, will... and it may be a matter of how the drawing looks, but the SCWDs should be shown at the top, in the tank itself preferably.> Thanks for your advice John <Bob Fenner>

Goodbye power heads (re post) 2/27/04 Hi Anthony or other helpful crew member, <whassup?> Some time ago I wrote you about setting up a "goodbye power head" system. I have a standard 75 gal non drilled reef on a regular stand. I was going to use a over the back siphon as input to the pump and then run it back up as in your design. <yeeeeeikkes. Siphon overflows are no part of any system I would/did/will ever recommend. They are patently risky in the long term at best. DO reconsider. If you cannot drill the tank, I'd rather see you go sumpless than use a siphon overflow> I am ready to "make it so" but have a few more questions. 1) On the intake, should I plumb it like a external Durso with a cap on the pvc so the pump can be primed? I am thinking it will always stay primed even if the power goes out or am I missing something? <missing much my friend... there are many things that can and will break this siphon over time: accumulated microbubbles from sump pump, skimmer effluent, O2 production off corals and plants by day, etc)> 2) Should I use a pressure rated pump or a volume? <not sure here without knowing/seeing the plumbing. Still I suspect it will not be that complex and as such either pump will work. I'd opt for pressure rated> 3) Would 1/2" pipe for the return be ok? as 3/4 just stands out around the tank to much. <Likely fine here... will require some experimentation> 4) What GPH would you recommend at around 4' head and 4 90 elbows. I was thinking around 800gph or so. <too low here my friend... opt for 20X for better results (10-20X is minimum and some of the best tanks have near 40X diffused). Find a pump that delivers 1500-2000 gph at the head you will apply>> Can you recommend a brand or model? I have shallow pockets! <good things are seldom cheap and cheap things are seldom good, bud. For how large this overall investment is (many thousands of dollars through the first few years)... saving $50-100 on a cheaper pump is not worth it. Buy quality made to last like Iwaki and enjoy is 3-5X longer than the cheap pumps. Opt for Japanese made Iwaki (better built)> Thanks to all the crew for the great service you provide to all of us! <thanks kindly, Anthony>

Closed Loop Options Hello, <Hi there, Scott F. your Crew Member tonight> I've been reading all of your FAQs on circulation.  One question I have is concerning closed loop circulation.  I have a glass aquarium and so cannot drill bulkheads.  What is the best way to set up a closed loop circulation.  It is a 50 gallon tank, which currently has a mag 7 pumping 500 gal/hr from the sump and another pump that is pumping around 300 gal/hr from the sump.  I want to add an Eheim 1262 which pumps about 900 gal/hr but don't want to have to pump it with a 4 ft head nor deal with all the extra water going into the sump.  Additionally, with the 4ft head the pump looses 200 gal/hr.  Do you have any recommendations for the intake pipe and how it should be configured? Thanks, Brent <Well, Brent, if it were me- I'd keep it simple and not do a closed loop at all. I'd opt for top-mounted external pumps, such as Tunze Turbelles or Aquarium Product Geminis. The put our massive flow (up to 1,000+ gph), impart virtually no heat to the aquarium, and use miniscule amounts of electricity (as little as 15-20 watts!). And, best of all- they require no drilling or supplemental plumbing connections! If you can handle the aesthetics (and cost!), internal Tunze Stream powerheads are the way to go. The simply move huge amounts of water with great flow, are controllable, and are of the highest quality! Check these ideas out! Good luck! Regards, Scott F.> Sump and Closed Loop Manifold 3/2/05 Bob, I have read thru countless Q&A's on wetwebmedia.com, but still I can't figure out the best way to set up my new tank plumbing. Hopefully you can help.  <Adam here today. Thanks for looking through the FAQ's first. I hope I can help!> I have a standard 75 gal rectangular aquarium and I want to set up the closed loop manifold system (No powerheads!). My glass has not been drilled yet, so we have flexibility here. My tank is going to be a reef tank with soft corals, fish, and inverts, but I would also like to design for some future flexibility if I decide to add more advanced corals later on. I need some guidelines for my system setup....Please help! 1) What GPH range do I need going through the sump? <If your sump is just a sump (no refugium or sand), then the range can be from zero to infinity. The limits are really determined by what your drains can handle.> 2) What GPH range do I need going through the closed loop manifold? <For reef tanks, I generally recommend at least 10x the tank volume, so at least 750gph.> 3) What bulkheads overflow sizes would you suggest for me? I was thinking (2)-1.5"s for the sump and (1)- 2" for the closed loop. Or, would (1) 2" bulkhead work for the sump? <The number and size of drains depends on the flow through your sump. A single 1.5" drain will handle about 750gph. For the closed loop, you want to make sure that you distribute the "suction" of the inlet widely enough not to suck up fishies! For a 750gph flow, a single 1.5" inlet with a large strainer should be sufficient.> 4) I still haven't found a site that tells me the max GPH for the range of bulkheads...can you help a little more with that? <We get that question so much, I may go make a WWM page! For drains, I would guess about 300,750,1000 gph for 1", 1.5" ,2"  bulkheads. I would make a similar suggestion for closed loops as long as a large strainer is applied.> 5) How many outlets do you recommend for the closed loop? Is 3-4 enough? <At 1/2" each, that is probably too many unless you provide more flow. If you use too many, the flow will be too slow to be effective.> 6) What GPH range per closed loop manifold outlet do you generally shoot for? <This again depends on the size. For 1/2" outlets, I would try to get about 300gph each.> Thanks in advance for your help. -Cody <Best Regards! Adam>

Re: New 75G tank setup: Sump and Closed Loop Manifold <Don't know where Adam's gone off to, so am responding> Thank you for your quick answers to my setup questions. After reading through your answers, I now have a few more questions about the same setup (75Gal): My local reef guy can drill holes up to 1.5" bulkheads.  So I plan to use 2 holes for the overflow (sump) and 1 hole for the closed loop manifold (all holes being 1.5" bulkheads). <Okay... the return does not have to be this big... just the size of the plumbing/fitting from the pump discharge... likely no more than 1" diameter> 1) If I do include a refugium in my sump, then what should my GPH (in the sump) be and why would it be different than not having a refugium? <Good question... how to state this... it's actually better to have the flow here "running in parallel" rather than series... that is, to have a much slower (a few, like a handful) turnovers per hour in the refugium itself> 2) If I try for 750 GPH through my closed loop manifold, and each one 1/2 inch outlet should have about 300GPH, then I am basically only going to have 2 outlets (returns) in my closed loop manifold (375 GPH per outlet)...is that correct? <Mmm, the math looks about right... but I would make more discharge points here> 3) If so, then would it just be better to split the flow with piping instead of plumbing a closed loop manifold? <If all you were hoping to do is discharge the water from two points, yes> 4) Assuming I have 750GPH in my sump and have 750GPH through my closed loop...both will be split into 2 returns each for a total of 4. Is 4 returns of 375GPH each enough to cause a sufficient turbulence in my 75G tank without the use of any power heads? (assuming I use modular piping and nozzles to accelerate the flow) <Yes> 5) Any other corrections / or comments about my suggested setup would be appreciated. 6) I have read in other Q&A's that you only want to run overflows at half their possible flow rate to cut down on noise. Is this true? <Mmm, practically speaking this is not a real concern... as you will find> 7) I assume since there will be no air introduced in a closed loop, I would probably be able to max out the flow through the bulkhead, and not use the "half" rule talked about in question #6...Is that correct? <Yes> 8) What are the best all-around pumps (brand) in your opinion that combine reasonable cost, low noise, and reliability? (please consider my proposed setup in pump selection) <Please read here: http://www.wetwebmedia.com/pumpselmar.htm and the linked files above... You will find there is some sort of consensus re manufacturers, the rationale for such... Bob Fenner>

Closed loop and sump questions Greeting & Salutations, < Good morning. > I just read a couple of articles Anthony has written about closed loop systems and water flow and would like to ask your opinion on a couple of items.< Go right ahead. > a) If I use a an external canister filter e.g. Rena Filstar XP2 (I will also use it for chemical filtration) and "extend" the return outlet across the perimeter of the tank using elbows would I have effectively created a manifold closed loop system. < Yep, you would have.  The only downside I can see is that it will be quite weak.  You would be better with a large pump. > b) After much deliberation I have decided to create a separate refugium which will have a gravity fed outlet into the sump. I have 2 options of getting water to the refugium a) have a small pump to feed it from the sump. b) Attach a Y piece to my hang on overflow box and a attach 2 flexible hoses, one the  sump and the other to the refugium. I am leaning towards option a due to flow rate. What is your preference? < Tough question.  First I would make sure they new refugium can handle a very large overflow.  If you "T" off your return line it is possible a lot of the water flow will go to the refugium. Okay as for the two options, they both seem fine to me.  I would probably prefer to not add another pump in the refugium system.  I would rather T off the return line.  If you do add a pump I would add another pump in the sump to the main tank. > c) One of my wet dry filters will be converted into a sump for my tank. Will I get extra denitrification capabilities if I place some live rock in the bio chamber area? < Absolutely.  This is a very good idea. > Can I grow macro-algae without a substrate - creating a second mini refugium (I know I can get algae on the rocks) < Without substrate?  Well with some Chaetomorpha you may be able to, but substrate would certainly help. > d) Do you know when Anthony & Bob's new book will be out and where I can order it? < I do not know.  I'm thinking October and I'll bet Amazon will have it. > e) I plan to incorporate an auto top-off system. Should my reservoir be filled with RO/DI water or saltwater? < RO/DI water!!! > f) I looked through the FAQs and even though there is much on addressing noise issues I could not find any advice for softening the noise in the sump after the a wet dry filter has been converted into a sump/refugium and the drip plate has been removed - I still would like use the filter covers. Any advice on this or please point me to the right link. < Hmmmm, not sure.  If you can extend your return line all the way down into the sump water (so it doesn't splash down) you shouldn't have any noise problems. > Finally, I have spent a lot of time reading the FAQs and it seems that - especially in regards to a FOWLR- weekly cleaning/maintenance, weekly water changes and patience e.g. using quarantine tanks, proper acclimation/cycling/curing etc. can get me around using most water additives/supplements and commercial substrates and avoid most of the issues being discussed. I believe in the KISS (Keep It Simple Stupid) methodology. Now, I know reef systems are a different animal- or  am I simply missing the boat i.e. the complexity of this wonderful hobby (and expense)? <To me, a reef tank is much easier to keep and far less trouble than a FOWLR tank.  The filtration issues and stress to the fish are just not as important in my opinion.  So I don't think I would ever set up another FOWLR tank. > Thanks with much admiration < Good luck. > <  Blundell  >

Closed loop and Return Manifold Good day, <And to you> I have spend the last 2 days reading through your articles and FAQs on return manifolds and closed loops and I'm a little overwhelmed by all the information available. English is not my first language and some of the terms is a little hard for me to comprehend, so I was hoping you would be willing to assist me with something that you have probably assisted many many other people already. <I will try> I'm in the process of planning my new reef tank of approximately 150 gallons and would like to design a closed loop manifold for water movement/circulation. The tank is not built yet, so I can decide now how many holes to drill and where. I'm having difficulties understanding the design of the inlet to the closed loop. If I understand correctly, I can either use an "over the side" pipe into the tank or a drilled holed in the tank for this. In both cases the pump will 'suck' water from the tank via the inlet and pump it back via the return manifold (correct ?). <Yes, correct> In both cases I need to use a 'strainer', which is almost like a little filter on the end of the inlet to prevent the pump from sucking in fish. Which one of these two methods would you prefer ? <Either will work> If I understand the drilled method correctly, this is simply a hole 2-4inches below the water surface that is connected to a pvc pipe on the outside, which immediately turns 90 degrees downward to go to the pump below (is this what they call a bulkhead?). <One name, yes... also known as a through-hull fitting, gas jacket fitting...> Is one advantage with the drilled method perhaps that the pump does not have to be primed ? <Yes> If you don't mind, there is one last question - my return pump for the closed loop will probably be at ground level, which means it will have to pump the water upwards around 5-6feet, which means that even if I have a pump that can do 3000Gallons/Hour, it will probably only do about half of that or something, so I probably need to have two of the closed loops installed if I want to turn the water over 20times, one for each side of the tank? <Actually, with the lines filled, there is little head pressure loss> I feel really guilty sending you these questions, because I can just imagine how many questions like this you have to deal with on a daily basis, but at the moment I feel that my head is going to explode after 10 hours of reading FAQs. Words like 'bulkhead' is not the kind of thing I'm exposed to here in South Africa very often :-) <No worries... A friend who has lived with us a dozen years is from Swaziland... I grew up in the Philippines and Japan... lots of cross-cultural experience> Thanks in advance Chris <Welcome my jabulani. Bob Fenner>  

- Planning Stages and Questions, Questions, Questions - Good morning everyone!  Thank you for such a great resource.  Too great!  My head is about to explode from information overload. Anyway, I'm planning a reef tank / Palau biotope for my office.  I inherited a 95 gallon corner hex tank.  I've attached a diagram of the tank from above.  I read Mr. Calfo's article on a closed loop manifold and have decided that is the way I want to go.  (my design for that is the grey part in the attached image).  After reading a lot, I changed my pump choice for the closed loop system from a Iwaki WMD20RLXT (540 gph) to a WMD40RLXT (1200 gph).  Seems like a lot, but hey, more is better, right? <In the case of circulation, yes.> So, my questions...  Due to the non-standard shape of the tank, I've designed 8 outlets.  I initially decided on 3/4" PVC, but think I should go with 1". Too many outlets? <I don't think so.> Correct diameter pipe? <3/4" might be better around the rim of the tank as should keep pressure consistent across the nozzles. Would still plumb up to the manifold with 1". Would encourage you to experiment with freshwater before filling with salt. This would allow you to swap out sizes if 3/4" doesn't work.> Also, lighting.  I'm planning on a few fish (big list, trying to whittle it down), soft corals and mushrooms.  Since the aquarium is 24" deep, I am thinking I need MHs (although I really don't want to). <For soft corals and mushrooms, you don't need metal halides.> The problem is how to arrange the lights in the built in hood for the best coverage.  Is one 24" fixture perpendicular to the display area enough? <Yes, should be fine.> (assuming several lamps, adequate intensity, etc.)  What about the back half of the tank? <Are you going to be viewing this area?> I could probably put in a small fixture that runs perpendicular to the main fixture in the back half of the tank. <You could, would not harm anything if you did.> Any ideas? <Sounds fine to me.> Also, June IMAC in Chicago.  I live there.  This is an invitation to dinner for any of the WWM crew that's going to be there. <I will not be attending IMAC but this will be posted on the dailies so if crew members  see it, they may take you up on it.> I'm sure you will be very busy here but if you happen to have some spare time and desire a good meal...  You guys do a great job and deserve to be rewarded as often as possible by the people who use your site every day!  Especially after reading a recent e-mail from a not very pleasant person who didn't like the help he received.  What a jerk! <Happens - cannot please 100% of people 100% of the time.> Complaining about a free service that does everything above and beyond.  I dare that reader to find a pay service / store / person that can do any better. Thanks for everything. Rich <Cheers, J -- > Closed Loop W/Manifold Plumbing Design - 08/13/05 Hello crew, <<Evening>> I'm doing an open top 180G (6'x2'x2').  I want to do a CL with a manifold under the DSB.  I have the tank drilled for two 1.5" bulkheads for this CL.  As for pumps, I'm considering one of the Reeflo models (Dart, Barracuda or Hammerhead).  I know we can't get into exact head loss calc.s etc.  but hopefully you can help me based on your experience.  I want to be able to have SPS and any other high flow critter I'm interested in.   <<okie dokie>> While considering my CL question below, keep in mind that I want to try to get about 800-1000 gph from my sump return running through two Penductors (which supposedly should equate to approx. 3000-4000 gph they say although I'm a little skeptical of this number). <<As am I.  Have seen these (on a 180), just not convinced the flow is increased by this large a volume.>> So starting with a 1.5" bulkhead into the tank I could tee to a 1" loop or keep it 1.5".  I think I have plenty of room in the DSB to do a 1.5" manifold if it will be better. <<Not much (if any) advantage to keeping the 1 1/2" diameter here...would plumb 1" just to save on PVC costs/ease of handling if nothing else.>> My main question though is how many nozzles (size and diameter) to run off the loop.  They will have some LocLine to allow direction adjustment.  Assuming approx. 4' head loss a Dart would do about 2900 gph for 160 watts, a Barracuda would do about 3900 gph at 315 watts, and a Hammerhead would do about 5500 gph at about 370 watts. I don't want to have too few CL nozzles and have them act like jet streams, but I don't want to have a forest of nozzles sticking out of my sand either!  I appreciate any advice you can give me... <<Nozzle size/quantity will depend on the pump you choose.  You have some figuring/deciding to do here mate.  Decide how many nozzles you want...figure 350 gph per 1/2" nozzle and 550 gph per 3/4" nozzle...divide these figures in to the flow rates for the three pumps...whichever figure comes closest to the number of nozzles you want...wallah! Thanks, Randy <<Regards, EricR>> Get That Jet Stream - 08/13/05 Can you PLEASE correct my spelling of "get stream" to "jet stream"  in the last paragraph of my previous email if you put it on your FAQ pages?  LOL If you can that would be nice, if not, oh well, I'll just have to look like a goofball... -Thanks! Randy <<No worries my friend...took care of it.  Funny how the brain works/reads/disconnects sometimes, eh?  EricR>>

Closed Loop W/Manifold Plumbing Design II - 08/14/05 Thanks for the advice to assume 350 gph per 1/2" nozzle and 550 gph per 3/4" nozzle for my CL manifold.  Would you care to estimate a rough head loss number for a system like this?  Is 4ft reasonable or is there a rough number per nozzle I can assume? Thanks and have a great evening, Randy <<Aside from the actual vertical run, I would add a foot of head for each 90-degree elbow, a foot of head for every ten feet of horizontal run, and for good measure throw in another foot of head for the nozzles (combined)...yep, eats up flow rates in a hurry.  Do buy enough material to build a couple different configurations if necessary and test these for desired performance before making a permanent installation.  EricR>>

Closed Loop Manifold  11/18/05 Hi crew, how's it going? <Pretty good> First off, thanks for all of the valuable information you guys provide. It's truly mind-boggling how much knowledge you all have. As most people who post questions to your site, I have read through a great deal FAQ's questions before deciding to post. Also, after reading through Anthony Calfo's article, I became interested in setting up a return manifold in the future. I'm sure my questions will be very similar to others who have posted, but I want to be on the safe side before I even get started. I sort of have an idea of how I want to approach creating the closed loop manifold system. First of all, I'm interested in setting up a 125 gallon reef tank with soft and stony corals. The dimensions would be 72" Long X 18" Wide X 20" Deep. I plan to use a 60 gallon aquarium that I have laying around as the sump (It'll only be enough water to fill the main display and maybe half of the sump). I want to use a CPR CS150 hang on overflow box, which has a flow rate of 1600 gph (the only reason I'm considering using this overflow is because I currently have a CPR CS50 overflow for my 40 gallon reef tank. It's been up an running for about 2 years and I have not had any problems. Not even close. <Mmm, okay... but one (semi-final) suggestion to have the new tank drilled instead!> I consider it very reliable). For the manifold, I want to have it connected to the return pump from the sump. The pump I'm thinking about using is the submersible Mag-drive 36 which runs 3600 gph at 0' (I've also had good success with using a submersible pump for my return with my 40 gallon. I also like how quiet submersible pumps are). <Yes... though issues of waste heat, potential for electrical difficulties still make me a bigger fan of immersed> So I did some calculations for the manifold based on what I've read on the FAQ's. Assuming that I will have a maximum height of 5' of vertical plumbing, the slow rate of the Mag becomes 3050 gph. Then I added the following addition feet for head lost: 5' loss for (5) 90 degree elbow bends, 1.5' loss for 15' of total horizontal plumbing, and another 1' loss for the combined nozzles. So now I'm at a total of 12.5' of head loss, which for the Mag 36 comes to 1850 gph. <About right> So now I've divided this 1850 gph by the 300 gph that you guys recommend for each nozzle at 1/2". This gives me the (6) nozzles. I was thinking of having 3/4" PVC for the entire return line and the (6) 1/2" nozzles (adjustable of course). I want to have the nozzles located similar to the attached picture, looking from the top.  <Okay> In addition, I plan to use my current Rio Pump (750 gph) to circulate water behind the Live Rock, halfway down the tank at the back wall. Of course there will be a hole drilled at the top of this line in case of pump failure.  Based on all of this information, do you guys feel that I would have adequate circulation for a 125 gallon reef tank with this set up? <Mmm, yes> I appreciate any knowledge you can shed on this situation.  My apologies for such a long post. And thanks again for this service. Cue J <Thank you for writing, sharing. Bob Fenner> 

Closed loop design input sought 10/28/05 Hi All, <Chris> Could you just give my plan for a closed loop style manifold for my sump return the once over with comments and suggestions in your usual fine style. <Could> Tunze recirculation pump from sump (Master Recirculation Pump (1073.030) , this has a 1" (25mm) output so I was planning a 1" pipe (hard) from this to a bulkhead in the base of the tank (inside weir area) sized for the 1" to pass through. At water level in the main tank the feed pipe will be split to run around the tank and T'd down to ¾" at this point, the manifold will run in a loop all around the inside top of the tank. I was thinking of fitting reducing Tee's to the outlets to reduce outlets to ½" with ½" 45deg's added for flow adjustment. <Likely the best route to go> The specs for the pump indicate about 500 GPH (2000lph) at a 1.5 meter head (static head will be less but I have allowed a little for bends etc) which is the 10x turnover I am aiming for the Ecosystem sump. <You don't want to run all this flow over/through the mud/sump portion> Regarding the closed loop would 4 ½" outlets seem appropriate here? (about 125gph per outlet? But with lowered 45 deg nozzle size to provide good flow) I was hoping for more outlets so I could direct against each other to provide random flow, Tank by the way will be a 24" cube (about 50 US gallon/200 litres) with soft corals, fish etc - nothing too challenging yet. <Likely will be fine> Will I still be looking at about 500gph/2000lph actual output? <Mmm, likely 400 gph will be closer> Does this sound workable or should I be concerned about lack of flow/current here? <I think this will be fine for the shape, size system, types of livestock you intend> An in tank pump with outlets in the back corners could be considered in addition - or indeed any other solution is a possibility as I haven't even ordered the tank yet let alone pumps etc!! Cheers Chris <And to you. Bob Fenner> 

RETURN MANIFOLD, 9/16/03 Hi Anthony (crew), <cheers, bub> Thanks to all of you for such a great site! <truly our pleasure, and thanks for saying so :) > I just read Anthony's article on "Goodbye Powerheads" and wondered if my adaptation will work. I do not have a sump system and was thinking of just putting a PVC intake a few inches below the water line (with a strainer/filter) and then over the top of the back glass and down to a Mag drive type of pump and then a return line back up, just like in the article. Would this work? <yep... very well. The Supreme Mag-drives state they can be used externally, and do not impart as much heat to the water as when submerged. They are also energy efficient and reasonably good (enough) for working against head [little here... no worries]> Do these type of pumps have a enough suction to bring the water up and over the back or will there need to be siphon maintained? <neither... with an inlet sufficiently below the running water line, the pump will be gravity fed and self prime (if kept clean... service quarterly or better) after interruptions of power> I'm concerned with power outages and if the pump would prime back up? <no worries... this will work just like a sump pump tapped below the running water level of a sump> I would much rather have one quality pump and the manifold rather than 4 or more powerheads in the tank. <agreed my friend> Thank you for your assistance. <best regards, Anthony>

Closed-loop circulation Hello, all! <Chad> I started a 75G FOWLR aquarium. It's started, cycled, and is now home to all my fish friends; a yellow-tailed damsel and a tomato clown. It has about 90 lbs live rock and 4-5" of aragonite sugar-sized substrate.  Problem is that the water circulation flat-out sucks. Dangerously so. The only circulation comes from an Eheim 2026. (~250GPH)  <Yikes, not much> In a week I should have the D&D Marine Terminator driven by a Pentair Quiet One 3000, which I  _think_  should add an extra 250GPH.  Then, finally, I've ordered an Eheim 1262, which at 5 feet, should boost another 500GPH for a total of 1000. Is that about right for a FOWLR? Too much/too little? <About right> But, here's my main problem: I don't know how I'm going to rig up this Eheim 1262 pump. I like the idea of closed loop circulation, but, it would be very difficult to work around the intake/return of the Eheim 2026 and the D&D Terminator. So, what's the trick? make the "loop" smaller as to leave more space around the perimeter of the tank? Or, can I, without a sump, hack out some sort of plumbing contraption such that all of my devices share a common intake and return? <They could share common intakes, discharges... but I would not do this... for the sake of efficiency as well as the ultimate probability of wanting, having to take one pump/filter off-line> The tank does not have a sump, nor is it drilled, and it's glass. <All can/could be arranged "over the top" with rigid and flexible tubing (connectors)... Eheim makes a bunch of these... and they're great, though pricey. Some of the online etailers (I think MarineDepot and Dr.s Foster & Smith (.coms) carry these> Also, I'm curious as to how I'd feed the water to the 1262. It's intake is 25/34MM, which is 1". I've not seen any 1" "intake strainers," only 5/8".  What's the best way to get water to the pump? <See the Eheim site, the etailers I list... there are connectors made, available for this... factory made> An finally, is, in my case, a closed circulation system even the best way to harness the extra circulation potential of the 1262? Thanks so very much as always! - Chad <IMO/E, yes. Bob Fenner> 

- Tank Modifications, Follow-up - Thanks for the prompt response. <My pleasure.> Just one point of clarification. <Sure.> I meant to say that I would be using the shelf design as outlined in the book. My concern was is it possible to drill the holes needed centered on the back wall, 2" down from the top and sufficient distance from one another, and have this shelf built to span only what was needed to cover those drains (I.E. 12" - 16" of shelf covering the drains along the back wall)? <Should work fine, yes.> Then I would have space at either side of the shelf for returns, be it Sea Swirls or whatever. What do you think? <Yup, makes sense and will allow for the Sea Swirls.> Lastly, how far down from the bottom of the bulkheads can I end the shelf? <Likely right below the bottom of the flange.> In other words, if my drains are cut at 2" - 4" at center and the bulkhead bottoms are at 3" - 5", can I end the shelf just below the bulks? <I think so, sure.> Will this hamper water volume/flow in any way? <It may, but the beauty of silicone is that you can remove, re-glue if necessary. You are going to do a full set of leak tests before you fill with saltwater, yes?> Thanks so much for al of your help!! <Again, my pleasure.> P.S. Do you know any tank drillers in Northern NJ? <I don't - you should check on some of the forums, I'm sure you'll find someone in your area capable of doing this.> Thanks again!! <Cheers, J -- >
 

Perimeter, Closed Loop Manifold for Water 2/7/05 Forgive me if you have answered this question, but I couldn't find it in a Google search. I would like to add a return manifold to my existing system for additional circulation. The 1" drain from my internal overflow will not support any more flow... <This is common among under-sized/drilled, so-called "reef-ready" tanks. No worries though... run a safe and modest flow through this overflow for your sump, but drive your manifold with a submersible pump in the display such as a Mag drive... or an external pump tapped into the display tank wall. This will allow you to drive the manifold with good strong flow> ...so I would like to add a external pump that pulls water directly from the display tank, and not use sump water. <BINGO!> However I cannot drill my tank, and I would rather not have an external overflow.  <The heat is a small issue in most tanks for submersible Mag drives... do consider since you can't drill> And for aesthetic and heat generation reasons, I would rather not have the pump inside the display tank.  <hmmm... OK> Would the design illustrated in the attached .jpg work?  <Not safely> If a pump specifies that is not self-priming, how would I initially get the water through the intake PVC to the pump?  <By no safe/reliable means I know of... you will burn out this pump eventually> Would it stay primed, if the water level in the tank never dropped below the PVC intake?  <Most of the time I suspect> Are there other issues I am not thinking of?  <Yes... principally air bubbles that accumulate in the display that can interrupt this prime> I have also thought of running the intake PVC down into my internal overflow housing so it is not visible when viewing the aquarium.  <Impossible... the air/turbulence> What kind of issues would this cause, if any? <As per above> Thanks for any help you can give. <Without a submersible pump or drilling the tank, you are beat like the proverbial red-headed step-child. Best of luck, Anthony>

- Closed Loop Plumbing, sans image - Hi Guys, <Hello, JasonC here...> Attached is a rather silly bitmap (Paint sucks) depicting my plans for a closed loop circulation system for a 75 gallon reef tank I'm planning. <I hate to say it, but for whatever reason the image didn't make it here in a form that I can open... perhaps the Internet goblins got it.> The pump will be an Iwaki WMD40RXLT rated at 1200 gph at 4' of head.  I should get a few more gph since I'll be using it at about 2.5 ' of head.  But with all the plumbing..... The PVC all around will be 1", modified at the tees to 0.75" to accommodate the flares and SCWD's. <I'm not sure what an SCWD is?!> The outlets will be setup at different angles.   What are your thoughts on this arrangement? <Without the image and a little more explanation, I'm afraid I don't have many thoughts...> Also, will 2 SCWD's be sufficient (at ~$50 each) to randomize/break up the flow? <Are these like Sea Swirls?> Thanks for your input, you guys are great! Mike <Please do try again, perhaps send yourself a copy first to make sure the image is making it through. Cheers, J -- >

Closed loop system I am in the process of building a 1" PVC loop with ¼ tees that have 90 degree swivels(10 of these) that will mount on top of my 180 gallon reef tank. I plan on using a external pump some where in the 2000 gph range with a ball valve to control flow (any suggestions on type?). <Iwasaki's are popular> This pump will need to take the water directly from the main tank since my overflows are all ready maxed and the return from the sump is pumped back into main display. I would like to hide the intake that will be used to draw the water for the external pump (also protect my livestock from the intake). Would it be possible in your opinion to place the intake in one of the overflow boxes? <Ideal as long as the box itself can handle the flow.> Or would the water be pulled out faster than it would be replaced. <Depends on flow *now* and how big the box is, what it's designed for.> My other thought is to some how build a protective box around the intake and hide it with rock? Your thoughts and opinions are always helpful and are appreciated. <You could do that or perhaps split the intake between two overflow boxes? Complicates plumbing a bit, but might be better for box capacity. The other choice is larger overflows....not much help, huh?>  Thanks, Mike  Winston <Hope this is useful!  Craig>

Water return manifold 10/3/03 Hi all, <cheers> Once again thanks for all you do, BTW just received a copy of reef inverts. My commendations, it's hard to put down! <ahhh... good to hear. Thank you.> I have a question about what setup would work best for the return manifold that Anthony wrote about in http://www.wetwebmedia.com/pbh2oret.htm .   I have attached some pics so it makes more sense. <very nice job> I have two options for the design and I am afraid one of them might disrupt the overflow could you please help me complete my design? The question I guess is would it be better to have a full loop around the tank even though it crosses in front of the overflow, or should I put a cap on the end and just have the flow go one way and not pass in front of the overflow? Cheers, Ryan    <perhaps neither... blocking the path of the overflow is bad, granted. But not having a complete loop will impact the distribution of water through the manifold. In this case... the simple solution is to use flexible or hard PVC pipe to bridge the distance in front of the overflow with a slight arch. Best regards, Anthony>

Closing The Loop! Top o' the day WWM crew! <Good morning to you! Scott F. with you today!> Anthony, after kicking back & checking/contemplating the plumbing design pictured on my new 75g/70g sump, and reading the Book of Coral Propagation, in your experience, would the pipe going up the center/back of the tank be more useful by "completing" the loop, siliconing the PVC under the lip behind the trim, with a few flexible, ball socket outputs in the loop and running it on a separate pump (Mag 7)? <First of all, I must say that I like your work! Very nicely executed! As a fan of Anthony's idea of the manifold, my advice is to complete the loop! It's such a cool idea, and a lot easier to construct than many of the other circulation ideas of seen discussed... Go for it!> As it is, a Mag 12 is intended to flow up from sump, thru the 1.5"id into the three way, two SCWD wavemakers & the 1/2" adjustable input, up the back of tank. I wanted an effective circulation in tank, with current behind the future aquascape. <It will be!> It seems it would be easy to complete the loop that I didn't realize I was starting to begin with, or would you leave it as is? Well wishes for the entire crew.  Thanks, as always, Stormbringer <Once again- I'd close the loop! You've done some great planning and great execution, so just finish it off and you're perfect! Good luck! Regards, Scott F.>

Getting Looped! Thanks for the reply Scott F., (my name as well, with out the F!), Would you run the entire system on the Mag 12, or would you run the "loop" independently, both pumping from the sump? <Well, in a perfect world, I'd run the closed loop right from the tank, rather than from the sump. It would be independent from your main filtration/circulation system> For better savings on the electric bill, I'm thinking that running the entire PVC maze from the Mag 12 makes more, (saves more), sense to me! <Well, in the long run- cost is an important factor- so you'll need to be the judge of what works best...If you elect to use the system pump to run the whole thing- that's the way it will be! Good luck!> Thanks again Scott F. at WWM, from me, Scott B. in Denver! <A pleasure, Scott! There are so many ways to accomplish the same thing, so do what feels right to you! Regards, Scott F. >

Closed Loop 7/22/03 Okay, now that I understand the principles involved, I think I want to make a closed loop work. I figure I'll need to run a siphon over the edge (can hide it in the rocks) to supply the pump as the two 3/4" bulkheads will not handle the extra flow necessary which I figure is about 2,000GPH (shooting for 3,200GPH total). <I do not/will not recommend an over the tank siphon for any reason/application. They are archaic and prone to fail in time. In this case... at the expense of burning out your pump of it should lose prime. Closed loops as stated before are tapped into the tank. Literally tapped - two drilled holes... shut-offs coming off that... then quick disconnects... then the pump in between. All for convenient pump cleaning or replacement without draining the tank later. Do visit the message boards for perspective from many others that have tried this. A common strategy with SPS keepers> If I want the siphon to handle the total flow, what size do I need? 1.5"? 2"? What kind of strainer should I have on the business end? <the pump has an inlet and outlet size/tolerance. Simply follow the pump/mfg specs. And I prefer a coarse foam block on the intake if it will be serviced regularly... better/safer would be a sturdy filter cage like we use on pond pumps for leaf litter> One thing I have going for me is that I can run a manifold above the perimeter of the tank just about any way I want to. I know there are unlimited options in tweaking this sort of thing but where should I start? three 1" outlets? Four or five 3/4" outlets? <depends on the pump again... my friend. You are putting the cart before the horse. That said... 6 outlets on a four foot tank are in the ball park with 3/4 or 1" pipe> Should I bother with Sea-Swirls? <they are fantastic... just pricey> My tank is 69X24X24 so I estimate the net volume (minus two corner overflows) at 164 gallons. Thanks for your patience and also your books which I found after I have made a couple of mistakes but in time to help me correct them. George <slow down and enjoy the journey, bud :) its a beautiful hobby. I would strongly suggest you take some road trips to regional aquarium societies and stores to spy their aquariums and plumbing to put this all in perspective. E-mail can only do so much. Best regards, Anthony>

Many Manifold Questions... Dear Crew, <Scott F. your Crew member today> Reading through your plumbing articles and FAQs has inspired me to redo my reef plumbing.  I especially love the closed loop manifold and am thinking I need to mosey on down to the local hardware store to start picking up some PVC. <Great idea, fun to plan and build, and really useful!> I have a couple of questions before I mosey, though. <Sure..> I have an in-sump Mag 9.5 whose return line is upgraded to a 1" flex hose.  The return line travels five feet to the top of the tank and will connect to a 3/4" pvc closed loop manifold.   Question one:  Wouldn't 8-45 degree angles in each corner rather than four 90 degree angles help to prevent the water return pressure from reducing in the manifold? <Good question, and I suppose the answer really depends on the outlets' distance from the pump. On the other hand, you want a fairly sizeable number of outlets for maximum water dispersion/circulation, so it may be better to go with the greater number of outlets at lower pressure...You may have to experiment a bit before the manifold is installed...> Question two:  I plan on having six outlet Tee's, one in each corner between the 45 degree angles, one in the center of each long side.  The tank is 36"LX18"X18".  What I haven't been able to determine searching through the plumbing/manifold FAQs is what size should the flexi ball socket tubing for the outlets be, 3/4" or 1/2".  I'd like to get the best flow possible coming out of the outlets-not too weak, not too restricted. <Agreed...If it were me, I'd go for the 3/4"> Thanks again for all the help you folks have given me and fellow aquarists.  Chris   <Always a pleasure! Good luck and have fun! Regards, Scott F>