Tubing for drainage/return

[Nmertz1]

Hey all,

What type of tubing can I use for my drainage/return line? I saw some clear rubber tubing at ACE and I am wondering if this is ok? Are any of these tubes NOT reef safe?

Thanks,
Nick

 

[kmellon]

clear line will promote algea growth within the line itself. most people will use black or solid line to block light filtration.

 

[Nmertz1]

clear line will promote algea growth within the line itself. most people will use black or solid line to block light filtration.

Good to know I didn't even think about that. Thank you!

 

[sethsolomon]

use PVC.

 

[kmellon]

I ended up using the heavy duty spa flex tubing for my drain lines and black tubing for the returns. The spa flex tube is not very flexable but worked perfect for what i was trying to do and saved me a ton of work getting from my bulkheads and into my sump. Best of luck.

 

[Nmertz1]

Thanks for all the comments. Is there a tank safe glue I can use to glue the parts together??

 

[kmellon]

I've used normal glue on pvc, but also used the (hot glue?) for the spa flex hose.

Thanks for all the comments. Is there a tank safe glue I can use to glue the parts together??

 

[Nmertz1]

I've used normal glue on pvc, but also used the (hot glue?) for the spa flex hose.

What is "normal glue"? Like PVC glue?

 

[kmellon]

yes, standard pvc glue with primer and glue. The hot melt stuff needs no primer as you apply it to both parts and then connect them together and give a little twist and continued pressure.