Plumbing Help!!!!

[SLAYCHILD]

Can I do all my plimbing with PVC on my 29gl. Also I know that if I do use PVC I would have to up grade my pumps. If this is correct. What is a good pump I could go with?

[hobogato]

why do you want to go with all PVC? you know that if you glue it all together, when you have to take it apart periodically (and you will) for maintenance or cleaning, it is a big PITA. I like using spaflex or that clear vinyl tubing that they sell at lowe's or HD.

[aquadoc]

Several are out there, and everyone will have their (IMO). It basicaly boils down to how much do you have to spend, and what is your desired flow? What pump are you useing right now? a couple well known ones are Mag drive, Ehiem, etc. Also are you looking for an in sump model or extrenaly?

[SLAYCHILD]

Well Ive been reading up on it and yes im gonna go with spaflex. But Ace, I dont know the GPH of my overflow. Im running a CAP 1800 as of now but want more flow. It just seems to slow right now. Im thinking a Mag Drive 9.5. I just hope it isnt to much flow for my overflow. Chris at Alamo said it should be alright. I just wish i knew how to build an overflow into the tank with water already in it, LOL. But that wont happen. The hole reason for the replumbing is becaise I dont like the way its set up now. I want more room cause it is a small tank. And since now I have SPS in my tank I want the turn around on my water to be better. To me you guys are the ones to ask. May be someone can come bye my house and take a look at it and give some advise!! If anyone is willing just let me know and I would be greatful to you. Thanks

[SLAYCHILD]

Sorry Aquadoc!! Its going to be an external pump.

[hobogato]

you may want to do a closed loop separate from your sump for the extra flow. you can use PVC to go over the back and down into the tank for the intake and on the top of the tank for the outputs with a SQWD. that way, you dont have to worry about pushing too much water thru your sump since it is fairly small. for instance, about 1/3 of my flow is from my return pumps and that is higher than most systems i have seen. most people use powerheads (or other in tank pumps) or a closed loop for the majority of their water movement.

[SLAYCHILD]

Also does anyone have a Mag Drive 9.5 that I can use to test to see if my over flow can handle it. That would be greatful also. And that all depends if you can use them in a sump. Cause I dont have my real sump just yet, LOL If you know what I mean!

[SLAYCHILD]

What is a closed loop?

[hobogato]

it is a system that has an intake in your tank that runs to an external pump and then the output runs back into the tank. once the lines are full of water, they stay full unless you have a leak, so there is no need for an overflow.

did a google search for "closed loop DIY aquarium" and this (http://themantledmonster.thereeftank.com/cdiy.html) is the first one on the list - im sure there are many others that would work too - happy reading!