Closed loop

[erptacmt]

Is it possible to create a closed loop system by adding an extra drain in two corner overflows and looping them to a return pump, then back to 2 returns on the back glass of the tank. would those drains compete with the drains going into the sump. would the closed loop drains have to be shorter than the drains to the sump. i would make the closed loop drains 3/4" and the drain to the sump 1". im trying to create more flow in the tank without adding powerheads to the DT. thanks

[OregonReefer]

I'm in the planning stages of a 120 with a closed loop... forgive the terrible scetchup image as I just started using it



The 4 corner holes will be 3/4 bulkhead returns and the 2 mid level holes will be 1.5" drains with strainers.

The Drains will be T'd into a Reeflo Dart (2" intake, 1.5" output) and travel back to the 4 returns.

That would be the entire closed loop.

The overflow will run to the sump and back with an over the top input so I can make an overflow break.

Your idea or one in and one out isn't a problem as long as you don't restrict the drain. Meaning the bulkhead needs to be at least as big as the pump input AND not be restricted... so if you put screens on your drain (so your fish don't get sucked through your pump) you'll actually need a bigger hole in your tank than your pump has an intake for.

You don't need an overflow for a closed loop because even at power loss the water has no where to go...

I hope my newbie advise is helpful

[chimmike]

Originally Posted by erptacmt

Is it possible to create a closed loop system by adding an extra drain in two corner overflows and looping them to a return pump, then back to 2 returns on the back glass of the tank. would those drains compete with the drains going into the sump. would the closed loop drains have to be shorter than the drains to the sump. i would make the closed loop drains 3/4" and the drain to the sump 1". im trying to create more flow in the tank without adding powerheads to the DT. thanks

It's not wise to use the overflows for drains for the closed loop. The idea is to have separate intakes for the closed loops from the overflow/sump setup.