Cleaning question

belzebuth · #1 11-24-2009, 07:55 PM

My reef tank has been setup for about a year now. Recently, I have been noticing not as much flow coming from the drain pipes(2) to the sump .

I am assuming there is probably debris stuck in there. What is the best way to clean these pipes?

Thank you

lastlight · #2 11-24-2009, 07:56 PM

Lance can you help out here?

I'll warn you now...the solution involves an air compressor and a payoff in the face if you're not careful.

belzebuth · #3 11-24-2009, 08:01 PM

Great, I might have to get the hubby to help

muck · #4 11-24-2009, 08:01 PM

Lets not forget a tropical vacation to smooth things over...

muck · #5 11-24-2009, 08:05 PM

Did you install unions on any of your piping for easy access to clean them?
Have you cleaned the return pump yet?

belzebuth · #6 11-24-2009, 08:21 PM

No I have not cleaned the return pump yet. No unions on the pipes either, this setup was already established when I purchased it. I kept the plumbing as is. Should probably have redone it...Unions sound like a great idea.

Any idea how to clean this...Or should I just redo the entire plumbing under the tank?

Lance · #7 11-24-2009, 08:26 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by belzebuth

My reef tank has been setup for about a year now. Recently, I have been noticing not as much flow coming from the drain pipes(2) to the sump .

I am assuming there is probably debris stuck in there. What is the best way to clean these pipes?

Thank you

belzebuth: there are 4 simple steps to this procedure:

1. connect air compressor to return line at tank
2. turn on compressor
3. have spouse open return line at sump
4. run like HELL

untamed · #8 11-24-2009, 08:28 PM

Well...service the pump before you assume it is blockage in the pipes. It is much more likely to be related to the pump, IMO.

belzebuth · #9 11-24-2009, 08:34 PM

Quote:

belzebuth: there are 4 simple steps to this procedure:

1. connect air compressor to return line at tank
2. turn on compressor
3. have spouse open return line at sump
4. run like HELL

lol...unfortunately he runs faster. So If I understand your instructions:
- I need to keep the return line valve close
- then blow the air in the line to build a little bit of pressure.
-ask him to open the valve and start running like hell.

Sounds like fun. Thanks for the information.

belzebuth · #10 11-24-2009, 08:35 PM

Quote:

Well...service the pump before you assume it is blockage in the pipes. It is much more likely to be related to the pump, IMO.

Of course, I will service the pump tonight. Hopefully that is where the debris is.