What do you use for return pump?

[BC]

I have a 55 gallon reef/fish. I want to replace the Rio I have now with something else. I would like to know what others use and/or recommend. Also, I would like to provide 2 return lines, one to each end of the tank. What size return lines would you use for the pump you recommend?

 

[Alex_78745]

Based on an ideal but approximate 10x your volume I would go with a MAG7 which is 700 GPH at 0' head. You'll probably suffer enough head loss to be right below that 10x level. The MAG7 has a 1/2 threaded output. In my old setup I fed one 1/2" line with the mag 7. I think you should be ok with splitting that into two returns.

If you think that you may want to tap into that pump to run other peripjerals then you may want to look at the Mag9 or 12. Each of them has a 3/4" return which you can plumb with a ball valve in order to get the flow you want.

HTH

-Alex

[ July 13, 2001: Message edited by: Alex_78745 ]

 

[Carpentersreef]

Right now I'm using a Hagen 802 PH to return from the sump to the main tank. It takes a 3/4 i.d. flexible hose to a white PVC line to a barb fitting into the main tank. This gives slow turnover, but that's what I want right now.
Eventually I want to move into a large exterior pump that will split off to fill a few surge buckets that will provide main tank circulation, and a refugium on either side of the main tank.

 

[srbayless]

Howdy,

Assuming you want another submersible to replace the Rio, I would go with a Mag9.

Run 1' line upto the tank, it will give you more flow. I did the exact same thing on my 55g, but I had a Mag7 with 1' flexible tubing which then split into 2 return lines. The Mag 7's flow was too low with that much tubing, so that is why I suggest a mag9.

Another alternative is the SEN and Sedra line of submersible pumps. I have a sedra 5000 on my Euroreef skimmer, and it works great.

Good luck,

Scott.

 

[BC]

Any suggestions to match the pump you recommend with the size of return line in order to get the correct return gph?

 

[kjb]

I have an Eheim 1060 which replaces a Mag7. I like it much better and have it mounted externally to reduce heat/give more room in the sump. It does have off size fittings, metric I believe; but I use flex hose so no problem.
Starts up right away as opposed to the Mag which had terrible problems getting a flow started.

 

[Toadally1]

Mag 9

 

[whirley]

I use a Mag9 as well.
whirley

 

[plankton123]

I second kjb's recommendation for using an EHEIM 1060. Sweet pump for 55 gallon tank. I use one externally for return and one externally to drive a ReefDevil skimmer. <BR>

With any submersible type pump you're going to want to clean the impeller at least every three months otherwise output will suffer. <BR>

You can check out you can plumb the 1060s from my sump picture below. <BR>

WRT hose dia the bigger the better to reduce head/back pressure. On your returns, simply put ball values so you can control the flow rate. Up to you as to whether you should put unions and/or ball valves on your pumps. I do.

Scott

 

[myreef]

I have 2 Iwaki's on my 150. Each drives its own return. They have been in continuous service for over 3 years. IMO, the best pumps out there.

 

[cubera]

Iwaki when you can't afford pump failure.