What size Loc-line do i have?
It seems like a simple question to answer, but for anyone who has tried to figure this out, it doesn’t always seem clear. You’ll find loc-line in use in just about every saltwater aquarium and it’s used as a means of directing water flow on your return line. The hobby is full of all kinds of different attachments, accessories and nozzles that snap right on to the end of your loc-line, including our own Random Flow Generator, or RFG Nozzle.
When it comes time to choosing the right size it can be hard to tell what you need – especially if you only have access to one of the two most common sizes; 1/2” and 3/4” loc-line.
To make matters worse, if you were to try and measure your loc-line, you’re likely to get a measurement that seems confusing. For instance, the 1/2in loc-line is a little more than 3/4in across.
So, how can you tell what size you have? Here are a few tips to help you properly measure your loc-line.
Need Loc-Line?
We now offer geniune Loc-Line® plumbing parts including 1/2in and 3/4in modular hose, adapters, Y fittings and connectors.
The size of the loc-lin refers to the inner dimension or ID as opposed to the outer dimension or OD.
When measuring loc-line, use these numbers to determine what size you have.
1/2” loc-line
ID – approx. .675in, or about 17mm
OD – approx. .846in, or about 21.5mm
3/4” Loc-line
ID – approx. .925in, or about 23mm
OD – approx. 1.125in, or about 28.5mm
Compare the end to a Nickel (US).
A nickel is a good way to visually measure the end of a loc-line – just don’t stick it in your tank and accidently drop it. We would recommend you use this method out of the water.
If all else fails – stick your finger in it!
It’s not the most exact method, but if you can fit your index finger in it, or at least most of the way in, it’s probably a 3/4in lock-line. If you can’t and the opening is too small, then it’s probably the 1/2in variety.
1/2” loc-line
1/2″ loc-line is pretty small, so you may not be able to fit your index finger in.
3/4” Loc-line
You finger will likly fit at least most of the way in – just don’t get it stuck.
We hope this quick-tip helps you figure you your lock-line. and the next time you have to measure loc-line, you can do it like a pro.
Happy reefing!
– VCA
What Type of Nozzle Should You Attach to Your Loc-Line?
Well, that’s easy – a Random Flow Generator Nozzle of course.
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Need Loc-Line?
We now offer genuine Loc-Line® plumbing parts including 1/2in and 3/4in modular hose, adapters, Y fittings and connectors.
I would like to replace my return nozzles on my 28 Gallon JBJ Nano Cube. Could you tell me if any of your nozzles would fit and which ones? Also, I used this overflow kit for 3 different aquariums in my home.
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0002DJAZQ/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&psc=1
The returns are loc-line but I don’t know what size. I would need 4-6 return nozzles; could you please tell me what size for this scenario as well?
Thank you!
Hi Toby,
The JBJs usually have the 1/2in loc-line slip adapter. If that is the case with yours, then you would want pair that with the 1/2in RFG Nozzle. You may also want to add a few pieces of loc-line to give you more flexibility when aiming the nozzle.
As for the overflow kit you linked – it looks to me to be 1/2in loc-line as well but, but the listing doesn’t have any specs, so it’s hard to know for sure. I would suggest try measuring the loc-line using one of the three methods above.
I just purchased your nozzles from watching you on Rico’s stream, cant wait to get them.
Hey,I’m about to order a 2 pack of the random flow generators, and just wanted to let you know I heard about these from Rico’s Reef youtube stream, thanks!
Is a locline tool required to install the nozzle?
No tools required. The RFG Nozzles are design to easily snap on and off with little effort, yet remain firmly attached.
Hi,
I have a redsea reefer 425xl what size adapter/kit do I need please.
I would like a full conversion kit.
Kindest
Phil
The Red Sea Reefer Ultimate Return Line Upgrade with the dual 1/2in RFGs would be a perfect kit for that tank. The kit comes fully assembled and installed in a few seconds
https://vividcreativeaquatics.com/shop/red-sea-reefer-ultimate-return-line-upgrade-25mm-to-12in-rfg/
try finding 1inch loc line . I know they do 1 inch nozzle but I would like the tubing as well
We did a custom version of the 1in RFG for Vivid Aquariums out of LA. They supplied VCA with 1in modular hose, which was very similar to loc-line. You may try them to see if they have that type of modular hose for sale. If so, We can supply the Nozzle 🙂
Do you send to the UK and how long would it take to arrive
We do not ship directly to the UK – However we have a UK Distributor that can help you find our products locally. Check out Where to buy Page
https://vividcreativeaquatics.com/where-to-buy/
I would like to put this on my IM Nuvo 10gal Nano reef what do i need? Would i need a loc line adapter first then the RFG nozzle
You can go with loc-line and then the Nozzle or you, for a cleanre look you can use one of our Slip-Fit-Drop adapters.
https://vividcreativeaquatics.com/product-category/aquairum-specific/innovative-marine/
Hi,
I have the Red Sea max 130 with the single upgraded power head.
https://www.redseafish.com/max-concept/max-130d/max-130d-circulation-pump-upgrade-kit/
What random flow generator would fit on it? And would you recommend one for a 34 gallon?
With the Red Sea MAX systems, that have that type of circulation nozzle, you will want to take a look at our
1/2in RFG Nozzle With Red Sea Max Adapter
https://vividcreativeaquatics.com/shop/12-rfg-nozzle-with-red-sea-max-adapter/
It includes the nozzle and our 16mm to 1/2in loc-line adapter.
A single 1/2in RFG Nozzle is a perfect match for the output of that pump.
I have the Red Sea Max S-650. What size RFG should I buy? Do I need to buy any additional adapter with it for it to connect easily and work.
Thanks.
For the Red Sea MAX 650 tank you’ll want to look at adding a 1/2in RFG nozzle to each of the flow nozzles along the back wall
https://vividcreativeaquatics.com/shop/12-rfg-nozzle-with-red-sea-max-adapter/
you can also add one of our Dual nozzle REEFER kits to the return line of your MAX tank such as the Red Sea Reefer Ultimate XXL Return Line Upgrade – 25mm to 3/4in RFG
https://vividcreativeaquatics.com/shop/red-sea-reefer-ultimate-xxl-return-line-upgrade-25mm-to-34in-rfg/
I have a Red Sea Max E 260. The inlet jets are about four inches below the surface. Would you please tell me the size that I should order, and maybe a Y splitter.
Hi Mike,
For the Red Sea Max E260, you’ll want to take look at our 16mm slip-fit adapter. These will convert the “eyball” nozzles along the back wall to be compatible with Loc-Line as well as with our 1/2in RFG nozzles.
https://vividcreativeaquatics.com/shop/red-sea-max-flow-nozzle-to-loc-line-adapter-16mm-slip-fit-to-12in-loc-line/
You can pair this adapter directly with a 1/2in RFG Nozzle
https://vividcreativeaquatics.com/shop/12in-random-flow-generator-rfg050/
or with any of the 1/2in Loc-Line parts we offer, including the 1/2in to 1/2in Y Adapter.
https://vividcreativeaquatics.com/product-category/loc-line/1-2in-loc-line/
Do I need a 1/2 or 3/4 inch nozzle for a Red Sea Reefer 350?
Thanks
For the Red Sea Reefer 350, we would recommend the dual 1/2in kit. Both of our Ultimate Return Line Upgrade kit will work with any Red Se Reefer system, but the dual 1/2in one is more suited to the size of display tank.
Please recommend a suitable nozzle for red sea reefer nano.
Thanks.
For the Red Sea Reefer Nano, a single 1/2in RFG with the 25mm to 1/2in SLip-Fit-Drop adapter is a good choice.
https://vividcreativeaquatics.com/shop/12in-rfg-nozzle-with-red-sea-reefer-adapter/
I have a waterbox 15 cube. which adapters and rfg do I need?
Hi Paul,
send us an email with a photo of the inlet of this tank and we should be able to help you figure out which adapter you’ll need
I have a Redsea Reefer 525XL and was leaning towards the 3/4″ loc-line rather than the 1/2″. Which size would suggest?
hi Eric,
For the Red Sea Reefer 525, it comes down the amount of flow you pump can provide. Each of our Red Sea Reefer Ultimate Return Line Upgrade kits have an “optimal suggested flow” rating. For the best results you’ll want to be able to provide tyhe nozzle with at least that much or more flow. So, in the case of the 525 XL you’ll what to choose the kit that best matches your pumps output.
Hello,
I just recently set up a Red Sea Reefer 525 XL and have a question about the outflow nozzle on the overflow box. I am interested in getting the VCA RFG for my tank. My question is, do you know the size loc line I will need to get to fit the outflow nozzle of my tank so I can get the RFG?
Hi Don,
All Red Sea Reefer systems share the same return line plumbing. So, any of our 25mm adapters or kits that include Red Sea Reefer adapters will connect to any of the Red Sea REEFER tanks. You could go with one of our Ultimate Red Sea Reefer kits, or add one of our 25mm to loc-line adapters. if you wnat to just add the adapters, we would suggest you go with the 25mm to 3/4in Loc-line. it will provide the most options in term so adding additional loc-line going forward.
Hello,
I have a standard 48x18x24 / 90-gallon reef tank with a Jebao 10.000(L) return pump, will 2 of the 3\4 RFG be enough for the tank size and will the pump generate enough pressure to make them work efficiently?
Hi Arcesio,
That pump will certainly be enough to drive two 3/4in RFGs, but two 3/4in RFGs may not be enough to flow an entire tank of that size. They would however provide enough flow that you may be able to reduce the number or even size of any additional power heads you put in the tank.
If by chance you have the tank plumed for 1in bulkheads, then you might consider our 1in RFG 9RFGS100LL) with the modular hose fitting. IN that case, that1in RFGs with that pump could flow the entire tank.
i have a waterbox 20g cube what adapter would i need?
For the Watertbox 20 and the Waterbox 10, we now have a new 16.5mm Modular Hose Adapter that will work with these systems
https://vividcreativeaquatics.com/shop/16-5mm-modular-hose-to-1-2in-loc-line-adapter/
Will the 18mm adapter fit on the Coralife biocube?
Hi Pual,
for the CoraLife line of BioCubes, you will want to go with the 20mm to 1/2in RFG BioCube Adapter. The 18mm adapter is used for the Oceanic brand of BioCubes.
For a Fluval Evo 13.5. Would it take a 1/2 inch random flow generator or 1/4 inch? Thank you
Hi James, For the FLuval 13.5, the best option is the 1/2in RFG along with a few segments of 1/2in loc-line.
Dual 1/4in RFGs are possible using a 1/2in to 1.4in Y Reducer and a some 1/4in Loc-Line, but the 1/2in RFG will create a better flow pattern in that size tank.