Collection: Bulkheads

Picking a style

Threaded bulkheads accept a screwed fitting on one face and cover most drain and return work, since strainers, elbows and barb adapters thread straight in. Double threaded units give you that on both faces, useful where the run may need breaking down from either side. Slip bulkheads bond permanently to rigid PVC and remove threads from the equation entirely.

Fitting one safely

• Label size equals pipe size; the required hole is larger.
• Gasket sits on the water side, flange inside the tank.
• Snug by hand plus a fraction - excess torque is what cracks panels.
• Sealant on threads only; never smear it across the gasket seat.

Parts that go with them

Elbows, strainers and barb adapters complete the connection once the bulkhead is in, and clamps secure flexible line to a barb - those live in the Fittings and Valves collections. On an established tank, order a replacement gasket at the same time, because a gasket that has spent years compressed seldom seals as reliably when refitted.