Reef tank plumbing and power planning

Aquarium plumbing from tank to sump

I design the tank-to-sump plumbing: overflow, drains, return lines, and the valves and unions that let you pull equipment out for service. The layout ties into the sump and flow design. I can assemble that aquarium plumbing during setup.

Water supply and drains in the home

For an RO/DI unit, a dedicated water line or a drain near the tank, I'll mark the location and needs on the plan. Connecting to the home's water supply or drains is work for a licensed plumber where Nevada requires one.

Power planning

I add up the load of heaters, pumps, lights and chillers, suggest how to split equipment across circuits, and plan GFCI protection, drip loops and a battery backup for the return pump.

If the plan calls for a new circuit, outlet or any change to wiring, a licensed electrician does that work. I'll give you a one-page summary to hand them. Leak and level sensors are covered under leak and level alerts.

This page is planning and coordination only. I'm not a licensed electrician, plumber or contractor, and I don't do work that requires a Nevada license.

Common questions

Do I need an electrician for a reef tank?

You need a licensed electrician for any new circuit, outlet or change to household wiring. Plug-in aquarium equipment on existing outlets is part of the aquarium. I add up your equipment load, suggest how to split equipment across circuits, and give you a one-page summary to hand the electrician you hire.

Can my RO/DI unit connect to the home's water line?

Yes, but connecting to the home's water supply or drains is work for a licensed plumber where Nevada requires one. I mark the RO/DI location and what it needs on your plan, and you hire a licensed plumber directly to make the connection. Tank-to-sump plumbing is part of the aquarium itself.