What size return pump? 90G tank

Discussion in 'Filters, Pumps, etc..' started by franchise52, Oct 9, 2011.

to remove this notice and enjoy 3reef content with less ads. 3reef membership is free.

  1. franchise52

    franchise52 Spanish Shawl Nudibranch

    Joined:
    Sep 30, 2011
    Messages:
    79
    I have a 90G corner flow drilled aqaurium, it states that it has a 700GPH max flow rate.

    What size return pump (GPH) should I purchase to avoid floods?

    Does anyone recommend a good brand submersable pump to place in sump?

    Thanks reefers!
     
    franchise52, Oct 9, 2011
    franchise52, Oct 9, 2011
    #1

    2. Click Here!

  2. AZDesertRat

    AZDesertRat Giant Squid

    Joined:
    Jul 30, 2009
    Messages:
    3,904
    Location:
    Phoenix AZ
    An Eheim 1260 or Ocean Runner 2500 would be good choices.

    You are looking for no more than 700 GPH at probably about 5 feet of head maximum. A 1262 or 3500 would be pushing your overflow but would also work well as long as you install a ball valve on the discharge side to throttle the flow if needed.

    I prefer to stay on the low side with my return pump and make up the turnover with powerheads like Koralia Evolutions since they are much more efficient and draw a fraction of the power. This also keeps the velocity down in the sump so your skimmer is more efficient and you lessen the risk of microbubbles back to the display. Most people will tell you 3 to 5x the display volume or in your case 270 to 450 GPH at 5 feet of head. The 450+/- is probably where the 1260 or 2500 should put you.
     
    AZDesertRat, Oct 9, 2011
    AZDesertRat, Oct 9, 2011
    #2
  3. franchise52

    franchise52 Spanish Shawl Nudibranch

    Joined:
    Sep 30, 2011
    Messages:
    79
    Thank you
     
    franchise52, Oct 9, 2011
    franchise52, Oct 9, 2011
    #3
  4. Foreverfishy

    Foreverfishy Purple Spiny Lobster

    Joined:
    Apr 20, 2011
    Messages:
    471
    Location:
    Erie, PA
    I wanted to ask what others think..my 125 gal (Reef Ready)has a mag 5 as a return pump (about 4 ft in piping to DT). I have a Mag 9.5 but it's to powerful, it drains my sump faster then the return pipe can fill it. I did have a valve but it would be 3/4 closed and didnt want to restrict the flow of the pump in case I could be damaging it. So I was thinking of getting (also to quieter pump):
    Ocean Runner 2500 Water Pump by AquaMedic - AquaCave
    or Eheim Universal "Hobby" Pump

    But I really didnt want to spend that much on a pump so I am leaning more towards the Ocean Runner. THoughts?
     
    Foreverfishy, Nov 28, 2011
    Foreverfishy, Nov 28, 2011
    #4