Bubbles in Return

[Reefster]

I have a 90g reef tank - just starting up. The return from the sump has bubbles spurting out every 5-10 seconds. The sump has water completely covering the pump and the water on that side of the sump is calm and clear of any bubbles.

The return makes a slurping noise at the point where it connects to the nozzles. Are they loose? How high/low should i make the tube that drains into the sump?

 

[yote]

I'll bet that your return pump is causing a vortex and that's where the bubbles are coming from.

I'll let somebody else take the 2nd question,since I never had that problem.

 

[Reefster]

the slurping noise is happening at the same time as the bubbles. not sure which is the cause and which is the effect.

 

[yote]

Watch the return pump and see if there is a vortex when you hear the slurping.
If that's what is causing the problem,just get a threaded PVC 90 and tread onto the intake of the pump,making sure that its turned down toward the bottom of the sump.

 

[Reefster]

No vortex at all - water as smooth as can be.

Any other thoughts? Anyone have a link or photobof how the setup should be in the back of my tank?

 

[ErinCahir]

How high is the water in your return section?

 

[Reefster]

Water is almost to the top. Have tried to lowering a few inches, but that did not seem to help.