Filter intake/ output

[woodendude]

I'm running 3 xp 3's and an ehiem pro 2 on a 150 g. aquarium and was toying with the idea of combining all intakes and output to a single bar for each.  My thoughts were that I could have one 70" bar running across the bottom back of the tank for intake (this would be a drilled 1/2" pipe) and then doing the same across the top for return. I could combine with a v connection the intake for 2 filters on the ends of the return pipe and t in 4 returns into the top return pipe. Would this be worth doing? Any thoughts on the idea would be greatly appreciated.



Thanks,
Derek

[mila]

1/2" pipe intake is to small for any one of those filters, xp3 or 2028 need min. 5/8" intake each.

[woodendude]

Okay so if I go with 5/8" do you think it's a feasable idea?  I'm really getting tired of looking at all the tubing running down the back of the tank.


Derek

[dan2x38]

I would not use T's for the output connections. The forward flow pressure of the output of the canister before each one would create back pressure on the water output of the filter in front of it. Know what I mean? This could cause caveation against the impeller making noise. It might even over time damage the motor. Plus it could slow the water flow output not allowing good flow through the filter. The last filter in the chain would suffer the most. I'd use PVC pipe with 45 degree angle connections positioned towards the output. As the water flowed by the connection it would create a suction not back pressure. I would also use the slip fit PVC connectors to make easier to clean same as the input slip fits. Hope I explained it clearly? 

[mila]

Okay so if I go with 5/8" do you think it's a feasable idea?  I'm really getting tired of looking at all the tubing running down the back of the tank.

1" reduced to 3/4" for each filter is what I have.