Harm in silicone tubing as return?

[luvreefs23]

Looking to maybe use short runs of 3/4" silicone tubing/hose as return line, any disadvantages, harm or long term problems anyone see or have experienced doing this?

Thanks

[slief]

Originally Posted by luvreefs23

Looking to maybe use short runs of 3/4" silicone tubing/hose as return line, any disadvantages, harm or long term problems anyone see or have experienced doing this?

Thanks

Nothing wrong with using silicone tubing for the return line. It's easy to work with, doesn't break down and will reduce vibrations from the pump. I use it on the return pump for one of my smaller systems and it works great.

[SAO]

only problem I would see is if it is clear tubing and you have any light getting to the tube you could get some algae growth in the tube but other than that I have used it with no issues at all

[mpierce]

I use it as a section between my return pump and where my hard plumbing return line starts. Reduces vibration noise. You could use it for the whole run, it just kinks easily.

[A sea K]

Ive used it on my last two systems and really like it. Easy to work with, very flexible and goes a long way to silence noise coming from pump vibration. As noted, light penetration will cause unwanted algae growth, I simply cover mine with some corrugated wire loom in any area that is exposed to light in the sump.

[homer1475]

I use it to plumb my reactor. Great to work with, very flexible, and deadens sound quite a bit. As noted the only downside is if its clear and exposed to light, algae will grow in it.

[HippieSmell]

Originally Posted by mpierce

You could use it for the whole run, it just kinks easily.

This would be my concern for a drain line. It could also, over time, start to collapse and before you know it you've got a flood. I use it on a section of my return pump, but I'd stick with hard plumbing for drains.

Edit: Nevermind, I didn't read very closely. Seems that you are taking about a return line, not drain.

[ksed]

As mentioned above all the right reasons to use silicone. I went a bit overboard and used reinforced silicone tubing, (which gives it higher burst pressure than standard) for my calcium reactor.

[peder]

In Europe we use Black silicone hose, no algae growth ;-)

[eder10986]

What do y'all think about using black silicone hose like that found in radiators?


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[A sea K]

Originally Posted by eder10986

What do y'all think about using black silicone hose like that found in radiators?


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No telling what else is in the mix to withstand high heat and oils or whatnot. I would say no. Just not worth it trying to pinch a few bucks (no one counts pennies anymore).