Overflow/return pump advice

[vester_72]

I have an overflow box that is rated at about 400-500 GPH.

I am looking at return pumps, is it better to have a return pump rated slightly higher or slightly lower than the overflow?

For instance, would it be better for me to get a 520 GPH return and use a ball-valve to regulate the flow, or would it be better to use a 420 GPH return?

By "better", I mean safer

Thanks for the help!

Jason

 

[LA-Lawman]

Hi, Welcome to reefs.org!

I would get a pump rated higher. Then use a ball valve to regulate the flow.... How much head pressure did u calculate and can u run an external pump.... or is submerged your only option...

If u can run an external.... save on heat.....

if u must go with a submerged. look at the mag drive pumps. Sen pumps and the ocean runner series by aquamedic.

hth

 

[vester_72]

Thanks and Thanks.

I was looking at an external, Iwaki ideally.

I appreciate the help!

Jason

 

[Len]

Go higher. You can always dial it back if need be. Besides, after the head loss, the rating (usually at 4' of head) won't be truly reflective of what you'll get.

 

[vester_72]

Thanks - I was thinking about the CSL Velocity T2 - I think that is about 650 GPH at a 3' head.

I'll be at a 5-6' head so that should put me pretty close to 580 GPH so I can just dial it down a touch if need be.

Thanks for all the help.

Jason

 

[LA-Lawman]

The velocity pumps do not do well with the high calcium and alk in a reef tank. alot of members have had problems with them and they are a pain to work on...

just do a search and you will see, here are a few posts.

http://reefs.org/phpBB2/viewtopic.php?t ... elocity+t2

http://reefs.org/phpBB2/viewtopic.php?t ... elocity+t2

 

[Len]

I gotta concur with ben about the velocity pumps. I've used 3 in the past (well, 2 velocities and one silent seas, which is the same pump) and all 3 failed in a matter of months due to the motor seizing. I have heard some people use them well over a year with no problems, but not me. I'd stick to Iwakis personally. Mine have been chumming along fine for years, and I know people who've used the same Iwaki for over a decade.

 

[vester_72]

Very good to know - good thing I waited until I bought one.

Thanks again!

Jason

 

[liquid]

FYI if you want to choose from multiple pumps for your application, head over to http://www.reefs.org/library/pumps/ and check the specs there. Also there's an Excel spreadsheet you can use to estimate your flow based on your pump selection and plumbing selection.

hth

Shane