Backyard Aquaponics
A place to discuss aquaponics

Hi,

I need to plumb through pvc pond liner. I've read about uniseals, but I've already got bulkheads/tank connectors/tank outlets. When using them with a liner, do I need to have a solid backing on the side of the liner, which the end nut of the bulkhead will press firmly against? e.g. a flat piece of wood? I assume adding a bit of silicone wouldn't hurt either?

Thanks
Rob

I have plumbed through liner with a bulkhead connector before. Yes I like to have a solid backing on the outside and I usually put the nut on the outside so it can tighten against the backing. Make sure that the location where you plumb though isn't going to have the liner being stretched or pulled away from the bulkhead since that would likely cause you problems.

A bit of silicone might not hurt but is probably not needed if the bulkhead is well designed.

Great thanks, I'll give it a go tomorrow.

Cheers
Rob

I have an above ground Intex swimming pool (for the kids, not the fish!). They used bulkhead fittings through the soft vinyl and then use flexible hose to connect to the pump. The hole through the vinal has a couple extra layers on vinyl to protect the area, but it is still soft.

With that said, I probably would careful doing that....unless you can prevent the hole from stretching out......

Cool, thanks. I think pvc has very little stretch, so it should be cool.

I expect that the Intex swimming pool bulkhead fitting may actually be heat welded to the vinyl to keep it from leaking. I would definitely put a small amount of effort to minimize stretching away from the bulkhead fitting when using any type of soft liner though you are right that PVC stretches far less than EPDM