75g Build Design

Yea I know what you mean, I started my thread awhile ago, but I feel like I'm not getting anywhere. I mean, I've already bought everything, it's all sitting here in my garage, it's just putting it all together that's slowing me dowm. But at least everything will have thought out and well planned.
Can't wait to see your build thread, good luck!

 

what about a chiller

Jim - I also have a 75G. If you run MH lighting, you will most likely need a chiller. I'm running two 250W MH and within acouple of hours of their start, the chiller will start cycling in. It's also nice to have two returns with a spare pump in line (not turned on) for when the other one fails. That way you can turn the lights back to actinic and wait for your replacement pump to arrive. You should also consider ball valves before and anfter each pump/disconnectable device. I have had to replace one of my pumps already (VERY noisy) - If I had not had the ball valves, it would have been a mess.:-/

 

Hey, Ardicus
I've read through your thread, nice setup.
I'm honestly really wanting to stay away from a chiller. Just another expensive piece of equipment. I have a 250w MH over my 20g now and have never had a heat issue. So I'm hoping 2 250w MH's over the 75g won't give me a problem. I keep my house pretty cool.
I agree with the ball valves, or unions. I didn't add them in the pic, just the one for the drain to the fuge to show that I'll be able to dial back the flow and direct more to the sump. But yea great idea. I guess I would just need one more, after the return pump, right?

 

It's a good idea to put them on each side of something which may need maintenance. Also - My house was a constant 68F today, and my chiller was cycling every hour to keep the tank at 78. Just an FYI.