I am building a 29gal reef and want to get some opinions on flow options.
Flow within the tank will be provided by a Vortech Mp10, but I can't decide how to run the return line from the sump. On a previous tank I just used pvc to come up over the back of the tank and adjusted direction with a 90degree elbow. On this tank, I am considering drilling the back of the tank instead so that the return water will com in low on the backside of the tank in two locations, one facing left and one to the right to help eliminate dead spots in the tank. Thoughts?

__________________
It has become more than a hobby! My 29gal Dream Reef DIY Build

I don't understand the question. If you are using a Vortex, the powerhead goes inside the tank itself. This powerhead will not lift water or pump water in any fashion, it blows water around inside the aquarium. Hope that helps some. Or am I off base?

__________________
http://s1050.photobucket.com/albums/...eefingMadness/

I wouldn't plumb it, that is one more point of failure. I like Eshopps' Return Jet. It is very adjustable and black. It doesn't fit snug on the trim, so I use Lee's bucket clip which happens to fit the trim and the return jet perfectly.

Remember to make sure flow gets behind your rockwork, it can't do its job as well without flow all around it.

__________________
Biologist-Professional Aquarium Care-Published Author (Aquarium Fish International Magazine)

Stocking has NOTHING to do with tank volume, it is all about water changes.

Sorry I couldn't be more clear. I was trying to decide how to bring the line from my return pump in my sump up and into the tank. I just did a "wet trail run" with the plumbing, and have decided to drill the tank. I did have the return coming up over the back of the tank and splitting so that i could adjust the direction of the water. After running the system tonight I have decided to drill the tank for the drain and return lines. The supply line coming from the sump will come through the back of the tank about 2" off the bottom then go into a "T" so that the water will be directed towards both sides of the tank from the middle. This will also allow me to hide the plumbing completely behind the rock work.

__________________
It has become more than a hobby! My 29gal Dream Reef DIY Build

I was going to try and not plumb it but after seeing how it ran the way i have it now i wont be able to stand not plumbing it haha. I have also decided to eliminate the overflow box and drill it also.

__________________
It has become more than a hobby! My 29gal Dream Reef DIY Build

Yes, if you are going to drill definitely do the overflow.

I assume you know you need a check valve for returns that are not right under the surface.

__________________
Biologist-Professional Aquarium Care-Published Author (Aquarium Fish International Magazine)

Stocking has NOTHING to do with tank volume, it is all about water changes.

BeanAnimal's Bar and Grill - Silent and Fail-Safe Overflow System
You'll want to look at this if your going to drill. This is one of the best out there.

__________________
http://s1050.photobucket.com/albums/...eefingMadness/

I'm making it! Just can't decide yet if I want to do a full length overflow box or not yet.
This is just what i have been looking for. I have always been worried about overflowing my sump or tank, and this takes care of both! And the silent running just makes it perfect!

__________________
It has become more than a hobby! My 29gal Dream Reef DIY Build