Skippy filter drain

[Btbeam]

I see a lt f folks add a drain to there skippy filter. I have a Rubbermaid stock tank 100gal which has a drain is there any reason why I can't use that drain? I would like to hook a pipe to it with a valve a few feet away. What do you think?

 

[koiguy1969]

you can if all you want to do is drain the tank. but we install drains for flushing the filter. 1&1/2" is the minimum size pipe for a good flush. 2" is even much better. the greater & faster the water can rush (flow) out of the "drain" the more suction, draw, or vaccuum it will create. and this will pull more debris out of the settling or sump area of the filter. it also gives a light rinsing of the media. * the original "Skippy" doesnt incorperate a flush valve.

 

[Btbeam]

That makes sense. Do you see any problem with the valve to open and close being a few feet from the tank I want to partially bury the tank. Also I will want to leave it out there all winter are there any issues with that?

 

[koiguy1969]

not all ..my valve is about 10' from the filter on my basement pond. just so long as the plumbing is level or running down hill away from tank.
oh, and i boxed up your weir ... will get to the post office tommorrow.

 

[sissy]

I don't have a drain in mine if I have to clean the bottom i have a small solids handling pump .I had a drain in one of mine but it was to hard to get to .Now I just grow plants in the filters and they pick up most of the gunk .

 

[koiguy1969]

go 2"...you wont be sorry.....

 

[sissy]

In my round one I had the swirl made out of pvc pipe and gave up on it .I took it out of my round tank and used the other way and so far so good and gave up on the other way 3 years ago .Still use the round one but taking that out for a bigger oval tank to hold more plants