Tips for installing bulkhead fittings on your aquarium

Installing bulkhead fittings into your aquarium isn’t always easy, but for some of our more brave customers, they like to take matters into their own hands. Today, we’re going to teach you some tips on installing bulkheads that can make the process easier. We’re not reinventing the wheel here, but these are some basic tips we’ve got to make things go a little bit more smoothly on your end. 

Let’s jump right in!

Install ‘em clean and dry

Don’t get into installing bulkheads with teflon, silicone or thread lubricants. Why? Because they’ll cause the gasket to scoot or not seal properly. If you’ve ever seen an old car windshield removed or some other gasketed glass, you’ll notice that rubber vulcanizes to the glass over time and creates an appropriate seal. Same thing here. 

Clean off excess flashing

Before you install a bulkhead fitting, be sure to use a nail file or pocket knife and clean out any excess flashing on the male and female threads so you get a better fit. This is a common source of leaks, so you’ll want to make sure you do this. 

Install the gasket on the flange side only

Regardless if it’s inside or outside the tank, always install gaskets on the flange side and not the nut side. Doing the opposite will lead to leaks as water will flow out, around and through the threads around the gasket. 

Use the correct supports

Don’t support the pumps or piping from a bulkhead. Use supports so that the weight is not all impacted on the bulkhead itself. This can cause a wide range of stresses on the mating surface and cause leaks. 

And above all else

NEVER screw anything to the external threads. Remember these aren’t standard pipe threads and if not applied as instructed, they can lead to some pretty severe leaks. They solely exist to screw the nut on and are not even standard or uniform in diameter, so be sure you don’t do this. It’ll only lead to issues. 

Hopefully these tips help bring your project into a little bit clearer focus. If you need tips on bulkhead fittings and installation, feel free to give us a call and we’ll provide you with a free installation. Until then, good luck!