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return line prefernece

Discussion in 'General Discussion' started by klmule, Feb 19, 2016.

  1. klmule

    klmule Well-Known ReefKeeper

    So, getting ready to drill this 210 for my overflow. Well, while I am at it I want to drill my returns as well but before I do i want to get everyone's opinion on drilling for the return or simple going over the back. I will have a canopy on it so aesthetics aren't a big deal as far as the top of the tank goes. If I go over the top I though about doing something like this. [​IMG]

    Let me know what your thoughts are. Thanks.
     
    Last edited: Feb 19, 2016
  2. gburkart

    gburkart Well-Known ReefKeeper

    i will be going over the top on mine.but mine is peninsula style so no room to go though the side with the overflow.what overflow did you go with if i may ask?
     
  3. AdamLawrence

    AdamLawrence Well-Known ReefKeeper

    With the canopy you could go over the top and install some sea swirls to give different flow. Just a thought.
     
  4. klmule

    klmule Well-Known ReefKeeper

    @gburkart@gburkart I went with the one from exotic marine the same as you. I went with the 35" model. What are these sea swirls you are talking about Adam?
     
    Last edited: Feb 19, 2016
  5. AdamLawrence

    AdamLawrence Well-Known ReefKeeper

    They sit on top of the tank or mount them where you like asks they move back and forth.
    Index - Marine Depot
     
  6. klmule

    klmule Well-Known ReefKeeper

    Ok I see. Those are interesting and a bit pricey I would say.
     
  7. AdamLawrence

    AdamLawrence Well-Known ReefKeeper

    That's the only down fall and everything with this hobby lol if or when I do another tank they will be on it.
     
  8. jeremy

    jeremy Acro Addict

    I agree if I was going to have a canopy and plumb return that way I would do 2 or 3 sea swirls. Should be able to eliminate some powerheads using these.
     
  9. Justin S.

    Justin S. Well-Known ReefKeeper

    My return line goes over the top, and of course my 3 drains are drilled. It's been a year and in hindsight I haven't minded having the return over the top, it's black on my black background so I don't notice it at all. If I ever do another tank I will drill the return line in, it's just less messy that way.
     
  10. klmule

    klmule Well-Known ReefKeeper

    What's the rule of thumb for the location of the return lines if I drill them in?
     
  11. abower

    abower Well-Known ReefKeeper

    Just remember, the return lines become drains when the pump is turned off. Best to go over the sides and use the return to break surface tension.
    If you drill through you have to accommodate the flange width on the bulkhead and clearance to the canopy or rim if your tank has one. Also want to leave a couple inches from the edge of glass from the hole.

    Not saying don't do it, just consider the easy button if there is no effect to aesthetics.
     

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