Return Pump

Hi all, I am looking for a better return pump to come from my sump into my display tank. I am currently using a Fluval 304 for the job and know the flow can be kicked into higher gear. For the gravity fed sump I am using an Eshopps 300 (300gph). What pumps would you recommend? Specifically looking at a mag but want to get one of the 950 gph models. Is there a way I can reduce the amount it pumps? I am afraid getting the higher flow model would force me to also upgrade my sump (which i suppose I am willing to do). Would I benefit from the extra flow to my sump? Thank you in advance for the help!

 

You can always put a ball valve on the return line to reduce the flow. Questions are, what size is your DT, how much total flow do you have now, and what kind of livestock do you have/plan to get?

 

My main tank is 55 gal. I have about 660 gph of flow right now. I have 3 chromis, 2 clown, 1 flame angel, 1 royal gramma and 1 fire fish. I would like to add some more fish (1-2) down the road but right now am working to upgrade the habitat. The sump is 29 gallons

 

Seems most run 8-10x flow per total water volume, me included. My return pump is putting out 810gph after head pressure on a total volume of 91g, my 40g fuge has a seperate 220gph pump sitting in the return of my sump so its not to interfear with the flow of my DT.
Like Mr Bill said, Ball or Gate valve the return with a "T" prior to the valve and return that to the sump, this will slow the flow without any pressure on the pump. factor in head pressure and make sure your over flow can handle the increased volume of water.
As for brand, matter of opinion. Mags are tried and true but run hot. I'm running a sicce 4 and the Ehiem pumps are very good as well. Maybe run two smaller pumps so if one goes down the other will still keep you going till you can get another, wish I did that but never to late to change

 

For FO tanks that's fine, that's why I had to ask about livestock.

You're already at 12x. You can increase it if you want, but unless you're having uncontrollable issues with nutrients, it isn't necessary.

 

I just have fish now, but I want to add coral. I hear 20x flow is pretty standard.

It sounds like i need to upgrade my sump and return pump together...

 

i would go with a mag 7 and dial it back a bit as a rule you want 10X sump volume an hour witch is 290 with a mag 7 its about 475 an hour at 4 foot head witch is roughly what most of us have but that 475 is with fresh unhindered pipeing it will drop to 400 in a couple months save the electricity and keep unwated heat out of the tank is the reason why i would go with the 7

opinions verry on sump flows i started with 980gph on my 90 and noticed it actually worked better at 500 by a ton even the skimmer was way more efficiant

i have found saltwater needs alot less filtration flow wile requiring way more display flows

and a 29 gallon sump on a 55 is plenty as long as it holds all your equipment i use a 30 long on my 90 works great i have a 50 gallon on my 150 too soon to tell there im shure i will find out in the next year

 

+1

Since you're wanting to add corals, you'll need to increase the DT flow with more or bigger powerheads. At 10 - 20x you'll be restricted to low-flow species; typical is 30 - 50x for most softies and LPS. I've noticed some on here are running 100x or more for SPS.