Standpipe

[Markster]

Anyone convert their drain pipe to a standpipe in the overflow area of a reef ready tank? If so, did you have the flushing effect of the lowering and raising of the water due to air backup.

I am experiencing that now and can't get the water level adjusted to sit still.

[alexwolf]

did you drill the top?

[Markster]

Yes, a small pinhole as suggested.

[alexwolf]

maybe drill it a bit bigger? I think you mentioned that mine was bigger than yours (haha), and i dont get a lotof sound from the pipe, mine comes from the flex hose at the bottom.....

[TexasState]

The size of the hole needed is depending on the size of your pump. Just use a drill to widen it until the noise stop. Usually, you'll want the water level to stabilize half way by your T PVC.

[Markster]

I made the hole a little bigger and the water still goes up and down but you don't have the gurgling since the air escapes before the water level gets below the elbow. I probably will make the hole a little larger to accomodate the air hatch.

[Markster]

Yes, I am finding that out. Thanks Joshua.

[Tim Marvin]

No stop! Is your drain line just slightly below the water level in the sump? Try checking that first it will cause a flushing effect from the back pressure. If it is just below the surface or out of the water, then continue with drilling.

[Tim Marvin]

I have two 15 gallon tanks in the green house that have a constant flushing effect............Oh, wait........those are surge units, never mind...... No really though I have had this same problem with regular stand pipes. Check the drain lines.

[Markster]

Kept drilling and all is well. This is nice way to keep the sound down and create another refug.

[witecap4u]

Something to keep in mind(for new setups) is that if you calibrate your standpipe, while running FW, it will need to be recal'd running SW....cs