Planning plumbing with a basement sump - diameter of main feed line

[danreef55]

I am planning on running two return pumps with 1-1/4" outlets from the basement sump. Each of the pumps will have two return lines. Should I use a larger main return lines and then split them in the stand? Will there be a change in velocity? Greatly appreciate any advice.

Thank you and happy reefing
Dan

 

[KrisReef]

If you run them both in the same line you lose the benefit of having redundancy that two pump provide if one should fail, the other is still operational. If they both join a single (larger) return line that benefit is lost.

If you put check valves on both pumps before they join one return that might work to maintain redundancy?

I think a merged return of 2" would allow reasonable flow that you are asking about, but I am guessing. There are tables at pipe suppliers that describe the gravity flow capacity of drainpipes by diameter and I would look to find out the capacity of 1.25 pipe and find the diameter of larger pipe that can approximately double that number to estimate the answer to your question.

The other consideration is the pump(x2) capacity to lift water over the head distance you will be operating at. The 1.25 (return) pipes will have a limit of water they can handle and they need to be sized to provide the flow you want back to the tank. I presume that you have planned for the pumps you have, but wanted to make certain that you consider that the pumps you have may not be what you ultimately want and make sure you don't install hard pipe restrictions that later you wish you had a greater (or lesser) size.

I think my brain is spinning in redundancy and not providing a clear answer.

I need to see a doctor to get the pump checked.

 

[danreef55]

Hi KR,
Thanks for the input. Would be running two main feed lines. One for each pump. Sorry I wasnt clear

 

[ca1ore]

You don't say which pumps you are using, but my general experience has been that the larger you can make the return piping (within reason), the more flow you will get. For example, in my last tank, a 450, I ran a PanWorld 250, initially with 1" flex PVC, then with 1 1/2" flex PVC. It is a pressure pump with native 1" output, yet after having upsized the piping (both on suction end and pressure end), net flow went from around 1,200 to almost 1,600 gph.

 

[danreef55]

Thanks for the input. Royal Exclusiv Red Dragon 5 ECO.