Opinions appreciated: check valve vs anti-siphon holes in overflow returns

paddyob · #1 04-10-2012, 12:46 AM

I use both.

Check valves work great, but over time the seals dry due to the salt in our tanks.

I shut my return pump off for target feeding so I get to check them regularily to ensure function.

I replaced them recently... once in 1.5 years.

The siphon holes are back up as in extra space in the sump. You can't be too careful.

gregzz4 · #2 04-10-2012, 01:23 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by paddyob

Check valves work great, but over time the seals dry due to the salt in our tanks.

Thanks, that's what I suspected
I'll try my latest configuration and am still contemplating drilled holes, but only as a backup.
I have a lifetime subscription to Back-up magazine

but am also trying to go with the KISS method.
Because I haven't tested my system yet with salt, I have no idea what kind of micro bubbles I may end up with due to my current config. This is why I'm leaning towards no holes.
All I can do is try it and worst case I replace the drilled pieces, right?

paddyob · #3 04-10-2012, 04:52 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by gregzz4

Thanks, that's what I suspected
I'll try my latest configuration and am still contemplating drilled holes, but only as a backup.
I have a lifetime subscription to Back-up magazine

but am also trying to go with the KISS method.
Because I haven't tested my system yet with salt, I have no idea what kind of micro bubbles I may end up with due to my current config. This is why I'm leaning towards no holes.
All I can do is try it and worst case I replace the drilled pieces, right?

Holes on the end of your output will lose micro bubbles the same as the siphon holes.

Micro bubbles are a sump set up issue. Not siphon holes. Keep your skimmer in a chamber or two back from your return pump to "eliminate" them.

gregzz4 · #4 04-10-2012, 07:10 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by paddyob

Micro bubbles are a sump set up issue. Not siphon holes.

Ah, OK. I was concerned having the outlets semi-submersed would create bubbles. Guess I'll just have to wait and see once I add salt. It's not like I will have huge flow as it's just an Eheim 1262 with about 5-1/2' head. If it was a Mag 9 it would be just over 700gph, according to the RC head loss calculator.

Quote:

Originally Posted by paddyob

Keep your skimmer in a chamber or two back from your return pump to "eliminate" them.

The skimmer is in the first section and behind a bubble trap. The first baffle is 16-3/4" tall and the last is 16-1/4"
Thanks Paddy