Water turnover rate Help!!!

[jasonson]

I am trying to setup a new 180 reef system. I can’t figure out what size of pump to buy for the return from my sump. (30 gallons) I have three powerheads the move about 1200 GPH each. I was thinking about the Iwaki MD40RLXT. Any suggestions???

 

[AF Founder]

I am trying to setup a new 180 reef system. I can’t figure out what size of pump to buy for the return from my sump. (30 gallons) I have three powerheads the move about 1200 GPH each. I was thinking about the Iwaki MD40RLXT. Any suggestions???

However you do it the tank water should be recirculated ten times the tank's volume. If I were you I would use a pressure pump which the Iwaki 40-RLXT is not; instead, go with the Iwaki 40 or 70 RLT.

 

[jasonson]

Please excuse my ignorance but what are the advantages of using a pump rated for pressure?

 

[AF Founder]

Please excuse my ignorance but what are the advantages of using a pump rated for pressure?

Because you will return water through elbows, pipes, etc that cause resistance you are better off with a pressure pump.

 

[Shabadoo]

Hey, thats my tank!

I happen to have one o' them and use a Velocity T3. This is no longer available because CSL went belly up. If I had to do it again I would use an Eheim 1260. It moves 600G/H, but if you want more flow you can get the 1262 now. It can be used either inline or submerged.