Aquarium plumbing parts

Plan aquarium plumbing as a connected system: pipe size, material, connection type and access must work together. Nominal pipe sizes do not equal every outside measurement, and a bulkhead's pipe designation does not specify the drilled hole it requires. Check the actual fitting details before ordering or drilling.

Socket fittings, threaded adapters, unions and valves each serve a different purpose. Use unions where equipment must separate for cleaning, and leave space to operate valves. Confirm both ends of reducing fittings rather than relying on the larger size alone.

Use the specified primer, cement or thread-sealing method for the chosen parts. Assembly cure time depends on the product and conditions. Support the pipework, test with water after curing, and check the sump's drain-back capacity with the pump off before regular operation.