Bulk head question....

[ff.rice]

Hello all,

I'm thinking about getting a 10 ish gallon tank and drilling it to allow for a sump without going over the rim. My question is..... What size bulkheads/holes and piping or hoses should I use for the drain and the return. I'm inclined to think the drain should be larger but I don't know for sure. If anybody has any suggestions I'd love to hear them. Thanks in advance!

 

[Fresh2o]

Yes, the drain should be larger (could be the same size if there are multiple drains). I know there's a chart floating around with recommended hole diameter sizes relative to flow. If I find it, I'll post it.

 

[coralbandit]

Most are 1" out 3/4 back in.
For a 10g that would be more then enough IMO.
I believe 1" out flows aprox 700 GPH? maybe a hair more...

 

[ff.rice]

Awesome! Thank you all, I was actually looking more towards the 1" out and 3/4" in after a little more research!

 

[ff.rice]

Ok change of plans.... I found someone with 2 30 gallon tanks for 40.00, and that's hard to pass up! What size in and out bulkheads would you all suggest? Also, return pump size? Heater wattage?

 

[coralbandit]

You are going to use the same size bulkheads in most cases.
Just more if more flow is needed..That being said my 120 and 180g only had 2 out and 2 in so you should be fine.
As for pump you need to figure in head pressure/loss and then how much flow.
I ALWAYS oversize the pump and use a valve after the pump to control flow if needed.