Suddenly my drain cannot keep up with the intake pump

[Lightsluvr]

Originally Posted by Spoff4

Seems the problem has been solved.
Thanks to all who provided constructive input. Being relatively new to the hobby, all suggestions are appreciated.
To close the loop-
Prior to the initial post, I had checked and cleaned the out fall grate. But, since blowing through the drain line prior to my post was arguably inconclusive, I disassembled the drain and reamed it with a sponge plug. There was zero build up in the drain and no wayward critters. In disassembling the drain, I removed the inverted "U" shaped PVC top of the out fall tube so I could see if anything was in the vertical tube. Seeing no restrictions in the drain or the "U" shaped top, I decided to leave the "U" top off and see if the drain could keep up with the return pump. So far, the tank flow is back to normal. Perhaps tomorrow I'll put the "U" back on just to see if my wife runs for the towels and mop, but it's good enough for now.
This leaves me with the conclusion that there was some sort of air lock in the drain line, or there was indeed an anomaly in the earth's gravity field. I'll check the latter tomorrow by dropping an apple adjacent to the tank.
Thanks again.

No problem with leaving the "U" off, except the drain might make more noise (water falling) than you're used to...but if it's working for you... call it good.

I think you mentioned there was an air tube of some sort coming out the top? I am sure you checked to verify it wasn't clogged... That is where air is drawn into the standpipe to prevent a vacuum from the water intake.

Good luck with your tank. Sorry for the distractions on your thread.

LL