How to Choose a Properly Sized Return Pump for Your Saltwater Aquarium

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Bulk Reef Supply - Saltwater Aquariums

Күн бұрын

mdshop.us/2ai4r7x Choosing the right return pump for your saltwater aquarium system is a very important decision.
In this video, we'll discuss optimal tank turnover, how plumbing impacts your water flow, how to calculate head pressure, how you can upsize your pump to power other equipment, plus we'll highlight the benefits of the various brands we carry and explain what makes DC pumps such an appealing choice for aquarium hobbyists.
If you find this video helpful, please like, share, and subscribe to show your support, help out other hobbyists, and to help us to continue bringing you great aquarium-related content just like this!
::: To watch more of our videos about aquarium pumps, powerheads, and wavemakers, check out this playlist: mdshop.us/2auNgRw
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Пікірлер: 112

@AcuaTV 8 жыл бұрын

This has been the most useful video on how to calculate head pressure that I've seen so far. Thank you guys!

@BulkReefSupply 8 жыл бұрын

Thanks for the compliments and we appreciate you watching! -Robert @ MD

@Matt-dc8lp 4 жыл бұрын

Very useful and simple explanation of head pressure and warnings of how not to use external pumps.

@kolis447 5 жыл бұрын

Very helpful Thank you

@PSCThrillSeeker 8 жыл бұрын

Very well explain!

@NinjaSushi2 2 жыл бұрын

I'm glad I watched this!

@DeeFromBrooklyn 8 жыл бұрын

Great video. glad you mentioned head pressure. . also pump maintainance should be a topic for future discussion

@BulkReefSupply 8 жыл бұрын

Great idea! We will put it on the list. -Robert @ MD

@someguy8811 4 жыл бұрын

Thank you exactly what I needed to know

@BulkReefSupply 4 жыл бұрын

Thank you for watching!

@williamstlj530 8 жыл бұрын

Great video! Thanks

@BulkReefSupply 8 жыл бұрын

Thanks for the compliments and appreciate you watching! -Robert @ MD

@Copperdog230 3 жыл бұрын

Great video, very well explained.

@BulkReefSupply 3 жыл бұрын

Glad you enjoyed it!

@FishOfHex 8 жыл бұрын

great video as always man

@BulkReefSupply 8 жыл бұрын

Thanks for the compliments! -Robert @ MD

@tommyluu5677 7 жыл бұрын

Would a Sicce 0.5 fit in the new Fluval Evo 12 AIO tanks? Thank you!

@pauldeacon8764 4 жыл бұрын

Hi great video! I have a Fluval m90 marine aquarium & I want to upgrade the return pump!Could u tell me please a really good return pump that I could upgrade to please?? Thank you 😀👍

@abh3960 8 жыл бұрын

thx guys

@npg4339 Жыл бұрын

Hello Marine Depot!! congratulations for your channel, I have learned a lot watching your videos. Taking advantage of your experience, please help me to answer a question: I have a small mixed aquarium of 300 L (including sump) and I am going to renew the return pump, in the market (Mexico) the available options are: Vectra S2 or Octopus VisionS2 or VisionS4. Which of those options do you recommend? Thanks for replying and congratulations again. Cheers

@Matt-dc8lp 4 жыл бұрын

If one wanted to use 2 pumps instead of one (for redundancy), do you have to use 2 full return lines or could you T them together?

@nourdinek9909 5 жыл бұрын

please I need to determine a small water pump for a scientific exeperience, the flow shoud be between 6 and 30 l/h, do you have any idea or suggestions.

@d4rks1gm39 2 жыл бұрын

I was confused why the LFS told me to get the Syncra 3.0 for my 33 gallon, now it makes sense. Still seems like a lot with 7 ft of head pressure.

@amdomag 6 жыл бұрын

What pump is best for a 260 gal bait tank? ty.

@jaydenmarrero6350 7 жыл бұрын

I have a 20 gallon aquarium with 3 to 4 feet which pump should I use

@margaretkamm4248 6 жыл бұрын

Would love to see one of these with suggestions for Nano reefs.

@BulkReefSupply 6 жыл бұрын

Thanks for the suggestion and we will put it on the list of ideas! In the meantime, feel free to contact our support team for fast and friendly advice. 1-800-566-3474 customercare@marinedepot.com

@scottdarren3583 5 жыл бұрын

What pump should i use for a 411 liter/181 gallon tank

@dcd2060 7 жыл бұрын

building a 450g aquarium tank for fresh water. Which pump would you recommend? btw fish for tank will be african cichlids

@NinjaSushi2 2 жыл бұрын

1:25 if your reverse the diagram you can reduce the head pressure. Not that it matters but you could have the return pump outlet right above the sump. The drain line doesn't require pressure so it can be longer without issue.

@brucea8621 4 жыл бұрын

I'm setting up a 90 gallon system with 2 returns, as far as head pressure what does a "T" count as?

@sandureef 7 жыл бұрын

I have a 64g and a rise pump blau 6kdc; a sump 17g; height 1.45m ... What do you think?

@shaggyboy5442 5 жыл бұрын

I have like 11ft, what gph pump I need?

@SuperScuffle 7 жыл бұрын

when you say 5x to 10x tank turn over do you mean display only or dislapy plus suimp? I have a 12g fluval edge i am fitting with a 10g custom sump. Do i calculate on 12g (display only) or 22g (display and sump)??

@BulkReefSupply 7 жыл бұрын

Typically this would apply to the total water volume in your system. On a small tank, you do have to be careful with too much from so just be sure to utilize a valve that allows you to dial back the flow if need be.

@shekinass 6 жыл бұрын

I want to buy the Marine Depot overflow nano for my 30g but i dont know which return pump/plumbing should i get, could you please help me? im a newbie i have no idea how to do this

@BulkReefSupply 6 жыл бұрын

You want about 300 GPH reaching the aquarium through the sump. You will need to calculate the distance and pressure the plumbing will apply in order to choose the right pump. Our technical support team can quickly walk you through this and get you some pump suggestions. Customercare@marinedepot.com 1-800-566-3474 -Robert @ MD

@Me5hell 5 жыл бұрын

I'm planning an above main tank sump with 1" pvc flex. Plans were pumping (pump on ground) water out of my mt 6 feet up to sump, and gravity overflow back to mt, but you mention to avoid doing that, what are the pros/cons? Will this not work? I've already bought blueline 20hd and was gonna start plumbing later this week.? As long as I prime the pump/pipe, it should work i would think..

@BulkReefSupply 5 жыл бұрын

The pump needs to be below the water level of the water container it is pulling from so you will have a naturally flooded suction on the pump. Using a check valve or manually priming the pump is not a safe method of installation as it could cause your pump to dry run or fail in the event prime is lost.

@weeny1240 2 жыл бұрын

all of the pumps im looking at have no chart to know how much flow is lost from headpressure

@jamesv7798 5 жыл бұрын

What return pumo you gonna recommend for reef crest 35g drop tank. Im using 2 return pump on it.

@BulkReefSupply 5 жыл бұрын

You want to accomplish 175 - 350 GPH through the aquarium. We have a number of pumps that can easily provide this type of flow through the system and I like the Sicce brand pumps, check them out below. The pumps run quiet and are quality built for long lasting operation when maintained properly. mdshop.us/2Dg1232 -Robert @ MD

@DJ_LittlePea 7 жыл бұрын

I have the fluval m90 it's 130 litres and I'm looking for a good reliable yet cheap return pump the tank is an all in one system and I've seen so many but not sure which one is going to do what I need it to do .... do you have any recommendations ???

@BulkReefSupply 7 жыл бұрын

I prefer the Sicce or Tunze brand pumps as they are quiet and very reliable. You can check them out below! mdshop.us/2sYJwvh mdshop.us/2sZcew4

@tomengland5082 8 жыл бұрын

hi, could you recommend a replacement pump for a innovative marine reactor (midsize) please?

@BulkReefSupply 8 жыл бұрын

The stock pump pushes 92 GPH based on the specifications from IM; the Sicce Micra should work out great and I provided a link below for you to check it out on our website. mdshop.us/2al6Tdm

@tomengland5082 8 жыл бұрын

+Marine Depot Aquarium Supplies ideal thanks for your help

@leahfiish 8 жыл бұрын

What are the issues with using a smaller than recommend pump? Will I be okay as long as I supplement my display with extra powerheads? I have a 90g with a mag 7 and about 7' head loss.

@BulkReefSupply 8 жыл бұрын

Using a smaller pump means water will pass through your filtration less times per hour; which can have benefits because it will also increase contact time with the filtration. The general rule of 5-10 per hour is a range that has been proven to be most effective and as long as you are within or close to this flow range, your filtration will be effective. Using additional powerheads for flow inside the aquarium is highly recommended for saltwater aquariums; more specifically a reef aquarium but this does not have any effect on how much water flow through the filtration.

@alexeverson2015 7 жыл бұрын

I have a Nuvo 30L and am planning to add a refugium(sump won't fit in the stand) any suggestions for a pump? Thanks!!

@BulkReefSupply 7 жыл бұрын

I would shoot for about 200 - 300 GPH of flow through the filtration. The Sicce 1.5 would be a great choice. mdshop.us/2q2UfnY

@alexeverson2015 7 жыл бұрын

Marine Depot Aquarium Supplies thanks I'll look into it!

@kulot1n10 6 жыл бұрын

Hello, my name is Alvin i'm super new to this hobby and i was given a 110 gallon tank. It has an overflow built in but i'm using it for a freshwater. What kind of pump should i use in this situation? Tank did not come with a sump. The previous owner has a pump inside the overflow, and i was told it does about 400 GPH. will i need to replace the pump? i also don't know how old the pump is.

@BulkReefSupply 6 жыл бұрын

I think you may benefit from a quick conversation with our technical support team, they will be happy to answer your questions and get you the equipment you need. For a freshwater tank of this size, you want to accomplish 300-500 GPH through the sump. I would test the pump you have inside of a bucket first, clean it up and you should be good to go if i works! Customercare@marinedepot.com 1-800-566-3474 -Robert @ MD

@miked3713 6 жыл бұрын

Any advice is appreciated.... I have about 12 gallons of water inside my 14 gallon all in one clown fish tank (sand, rock, equipment take up rest). I want to make sure I have the correct gph return pump. 12 gallons x 10 would be a max of 120 gph pump... but I also have about 10 inches of head pressure and 1 elbow. I have a circulation pump within display area. I have a nano pump that is 110 gph and is only 2.8 watts. I got this because it is very quiet and doesn't heat up the tank too much. Everything seems to be good had it for a year at least but should I get a bit more powerful one such as the CompactON 600 (159 GPH) - Eheim, Trying to keep heat and noise to it lowest. Thanks.

@BulkReefSupply 6 жыл бұрын

The 110GPH is completely sufficient for the aquarium and I see no need the upgrade. Having said that, the CompactON pumps are pretty nice and will run quiet. -Robert @ MD

@miked3713 6 жыл бұрын

Thank you

@CombackKid_ 6 жыл бұрын

What if I’m using vinyl tubing? How to I calculate my head pressure?

@BulkReefSupply 6 жыл бұрын

Vertical distance up is generally a good practice. So if you are running say 4ft of tubing but only travel 2ft up vertically distance; you would calculate 2ft of head pressure. Feel free to contact our support team if you need further help. 1-800-566-3474 Customercare@marinedepot.com

@gabrielcodina5466 6 жыл бұрын

For calculating total tank turnover per hr do you need to include your sump with your tank in terms of water volume(gallons) for example?

@BulkReefSupply 6 жыл бұрын

I usually calculate the display volume when choosing a return pump. You can of course include the sump volume which will then ensure your pump is plenty strong enough and can always be dialed down if need be.

@gabrielcodina5466 6 жыл бұрын

k thnx

@fishymats873 7 жыл бұрын

Is a Fluval Sp4 too much for a 75 gallon display?

@BulkReefSupply 7 жыл бұрын

No, the Fluval SP4 will work out great for a 75 gallon saltwater tank in most situations. The Fluval SP4 pushes a maximum of 1822 GPH and you need to accomplish roughly 750 GPH. Based on your plumbing, you can get a rough idea of how much water flow will be entering your tank and if it is too much, you can utilize a ball valve or gate valve to slow it down.

@snarl3027 8 жыл бұрын

I'm a little unclear on how pipe diameter affects flow. Will a larger diameter (1") return line flow more of less than a smaller (3/4") line?

@AcuaTV 8 жыл бұрын

the bigger the diameter the more flow you get. Pressure is a different thing though.

@BulkReefSupply 8 жыл бұрын

This really depends on the pump. Some pumps are designed to operate optimally with larger diameter plumbing while others perform well with smaller diameter. In general, whether you increase or decrease the diameter of the plumbing you will end up reducing the flow rate.

@bojacksonsuperturtle7411 6 жыл бұрын

I have a 30 gallon jbj Nano and I think the return pump is on its way out.. could you recommend an affordable yet reliable return pump, that won’t flood my house. Cheers!!

@BulkReefSupply 6 жыл бұрын

You want about 300 gallons per hour into the tank. The MJ1200 would be a great choice our you might consider the Sicce 1.5 for a little more power. mdshop.us/2Dg1232 mdshop.us/2raKaF8

@sindreandreandersen5815 7 жыл бұрын

Is it okay with 15 in turnower on a freshwater

@BulkReefSupply 7 жыл бұрын

15 x total tank turnover per hour will result in some pretty strong water flow inside the tank which can be stressful for some freshwater fish and may result in some adverse affect in terms of filtration. We would need more details about your tank to provide specific advice an feel free to contact us directly for personalized support! Customercare@marinedepot.com 1-800-566-3474

@ITSMYBSNLDINESH 5 жыл бұрын

Please said the price one hp 24 v brushless dc motor pump suction 1.5 inch delivery 10 Meter. Thank

@RCcrazy2008 7 жыл бұрын

I have a 200 gallon bow front and a 40 gallon sump what size return pump should I get? I'm very confused on this part of the tank. Thank you.

@BulkReefSupply 7 жыл бұрын

You want to accomplish around 1000-2000 GPH at the tank. Therefore, choose a pump that can deliver this kind of flow. Feel free to contact our support team for live one on one support. Customercare@marinedepot.com 1-800-566-3474

@RCcrazy2008 7 жыл бұрын

Marine Depot Aquarium Supplies thank you. I will call.

@RCcrazy2008 7 жыл бұрын

Marine Depot Aquarium Supplies thank you. I will call.

@gm836 7 жыл бұрын

Christopher Costigan tic reef 8000 or 12000 return pump

@vivianzhang8287 6 жыл бұрын

can I use a really warm return pump as part of my heating?

@BulkReefSupply 6 жыл бұрын

In a sense yes, pumps will heat the water but you do want to monitor closely because it is important not to let the water get too hot or too cold. A heater can be set at a specific temperature and will always ensure your water temperature is within the correct range.

@vivianzhang8287 6 жыл бұрын

Ok thank you for replying!

@Shunto99 7 жыл бұрын

I have a small 29g bio cube. What brand Would you suggest? I Imagine that it wouldn't be too big. Thanks.

@BulkReefSupply 7 жыл бұрын

For these tanks; I would go with the Cobalt MJ pumps or a small Sicce brand pump. I provided a couple links below for you to check them out on our website. mdshop.us/2cyxUu1 mdshop.us/2cyycRA

@Shunto99 7 жыл бұрын

Thank you. I do like the Sicce brand...

@BulkReefSupply 7 жыл бұрын

Glad to help!

@gokulaguhan5103 6 жыл бұрын

Is it okay to have both the overflow drain and return pipe in same size ?

@BulkReefSupply 6 жыл бұрын

The ticket here is the drain size must be able to accommodate the amount of flow you need and then some. When looking at pipe diameters you pretty much have a maximum drain rate for the pipe diameter; plus you need to consider the ability of your overflow style of choice. Some overflows work better than others in terms of handling drain rates and still remaining quiet. Short answer is yes, you can utilize equal diameter but be sure to pay attention to the desired rate of flow when choosing that diameter. -Robert @ MD

@gokulaguhan5103 6 жыл бұрын

Marine Depot Aquarium Supplies Thanks 😊

@abh3960 7 жыл бұрын

i have a red sea 350 how can i put a locline on the return line what size is the return line in the tank?

@BulkReefSupply 7 жыл бұрын

It looks as though they have a custom return line on these tanks and it may not be possible depending on the exact one you have. Using Loc-Line would require standard threaded pipe fittings. Feel free to shoot us a picture (customercare@marinedepot.com) and our customer support team will be happy to help.

@abh3960 7 жыл бұрын

how do i stop the syphoning with the red sea line it drives me nuts?

@timur1059 8 жыл бұрын

Royal Exclusiv Red Dragon pumps?

@jove3782 3 жыл бұрын

overpriced garbage ! if they are so good why are they not used in commercial use. Think about it.

@fritskuijstermans8690 6 жыл бұрын

Do you guys ship to europe?

@BulkReefSupply 6 жыл бұрын

Yes we do offer shipments to most countries in Europe. You can check out the options on our website below. www.marinedepot.com/help_md_ordering_information_order.html

@gokulaguhan5103 6 жыл бұрын

Since my return pump is more power and it delivers more water to the display and dries out the sump For this issue can I use ball valve to control and reduce the flow from return pump ?

@BulkReefSupply 6 жыл бұрын

Yes, it is always recommended that you have some sort of flow control on your return pump for this reason. You want to dial in the return flow to perfectly match your drain rate and acheive the quietest operation possible.

@abh3960 8 жыл бұрын

hey guys i have a red sea 350 sicce 3 i think.... is that big enough for the return on my system....?

@BulkReefSupply 8 жыл бұрын

The Sicce Syncra 3.0 pushes 714 GPH which will give you around 400-500 GPH into the tank as long as you have no additional equipment installed that will put additional pressure on the pump. The Red Sea REEFER 350 is 73 total gallons which means you want to provide roughly 350 - 700 GPH into the tank; so this pump is perfect!

@robertlangford7637 2 жыл бұрын

whats a good pump for a 29 gallon nano tank

@BulkReefSupply 2 жыл бұрын

As far as return pumps go, the Sicce Syncra 1.5 is a great option if you're looking for something a little more budget friendly, but still very reliable. If you want something controllable, check out the Reef Octopus Varios 2.

@robertlangford7637 2 жыл бұрын

@@BulkReefSupply thanks bra

@ehehehehe2815 8 жыл бұрын

If i have a 3 gallon???

@BulkReefSupply 8 жыл бұрын

I would say it is probably best to just stick with an external hang-on or canister filter and regular water change instead of a sump in this case. With only 3 gallons it will be tricky to avoid flooding.

@ehehehehe2815 8 жыл бұрын

@omegachar4754 4 жыл бұрын

You say you need a pump capable of delivering 250 to 500 gph for a 50g tank. You then pick a pump that's capable of producing between 500 and 1000gph at 7ft of head pressure. Am I misunderstanding something here? You've already accounted for head pressure, it can deliver between 250 and 500gph for a 5 to 10x turn over, yet you're still doubling up. Don't you have a 10-20x turnover now in this example?

@BillyPipes 8 жыл бұрын

wish you had this video up a month ago lol

@BulkReefSupply 8 жыл бұрын

Always a day late and a dollar short. :) Thanks for watching and let us know if you have any questions! -Robert @ MD

@cryptocurrencyconnect8899 4 жыл бұрын

Dolphin Pump:)

@fdny1055 4 жыл бұрын

Liked n scared at same time

@robertlangford7637 2 жыл бұрын

you guys ALWAYS only do huge tanks,what about nano tanks .did you consider that .that's ho you run people away from the hobby ,let me guess its a money thing