Question from a Sump Newbie
 

Couldn't I simply have a small overflow on the main tank and one in the sump with returns going to tank and sump? That way if one of the pumps within the overflows failed the maximum amount the tank could overfill or spill would be controlled by the overflow?

Hope this makes sense...

ummmm How would it over fill with a overflow???if the tank water of the main tank drops below overflow level thats in no more water going down.Even of you sump broke you water level in your tank wouldnt drain all. :rolleyes:

Yeah, that's what I meant. I was only asking because it seems all the plumbing descriptions I have read are so damn complicated with different valves, bulkheads, closed loops, etc. If all I need is another overflow and powerhead than I'm adding another tank! For some reason I didn't think it could be so simple.

well its real easy.

From your overflow run a 1inch pipe. to the sump thats all.
Then from your your sump hook up your pump to a 3/4inch pipe
and run that to your tank. that is the return.

If u have a predrilled tank it will have a 1inch hole and 3/4inch hole on will need a 1inch bulkhead and 3/4inch bulkhead these are used to suppose the hole to pipe threw the glass. Its really up to u kinda look at your tank and draw the best route for both. then figure out what u need for a standard simple setup u dont need vavles and stuff.

Why 1" out and 3/4" return? Is there a reason for the different sizes? Easier to pump the return line through a smaller hose I would imagine, is there anything else?

I don't have predrilled anything, don't plan to go that far yet.

So I don't even need the extra powerhead in the overflow, I just use gravity and put the powerhead in the sump for the return line, it keeps getting easier! Now, if I wanted to put the two tanks beside each other I would have to go with something more like my original description.

I guess because I was never really using the info I was reading about plumbing I just skimmed over it.

cpt just wondering since your tank is not predrilled are you planning on going with something like a CPR overflow? If so a powerhead sucking out the air is needed IMO.

well almost all Overflow is gravity fed and alse u need is a pump for a return line. I mean u can used a Rubber flex hose to both return andoverflow. Dont really need pvc

What's a CPR overflow?

My skimmer has a small overflow box hooked to it. This is in the tank and the powerhead that feeds the skimmer in in the overflow box. I figured I could just get / make a similar over flow box for the sump / other tank.

Before all the questions start about "Why do you have it set up that way?", a bit of background. I bought the whole setup a couple years ago from a guy I worked with who no longer had the time to take care of it (never did a good job IMO). He bought it from another guy a couple years previously. It is my saltwater learning tank. Now, thanks to all you, I am on to the plumbing chapter.