go with the flow

[reeftankgirl13]

20g DT with 10g DIY sump/refug. Have two pumps 1. return pump 110 gph 2. 170gph running my overflow down to sump(i know i shouldnt use two pumps but so far it is working fine) i need more flow in my refugium part of the sump( only about 2 gallons) so am wanting to buy a new pump to do so, my question is should i buy a 320 gph pump(to replace the 110 pump) to move the water faster through the sump (which would probably help with the filtration as well) or figure out a plan b? and any suggestions for that plan b?

 

[Eric B]

I am a little confused on how you are using the 110 gph and 170 gph pumps? Do you have 2 return pumps? I would just take one of those off and keep for a back-up pump. If you want more flow in the refugium why not just put a cheap power head in that section since it is only 2 gallons in size. I do like slow flow through my sump to let what is in there do its job.

 

[reeftankgirl13]

i just dont know if the diatomas or however you spell it on the SB is a good thing or bad thing? just tested this morning and everything is in check(ammonia, nitrates, nitrite). the 110 is my return and the 170 is a HOB converted to an overflow so i use that instead of a siphon to move the water to the overflow to drain into the sump via pvc pipe

 

[AZDesertRat]

With two pumps you are guaranteed a flood and disaster!!! Overflows do not require pumps. They are a siphon and extremely simple. I strongly suggest you redesign your system ASAP to save yourself grief.

 

[Mrfresh]

Use a 4inch filter sock and most of the diatoms will get stuck in that.
For a fug u want the water to go though it slow.
Algae can't absorb nutrition as fast.
Slow water equals better filtering...for a fug

 

[reeftankgirl13]

With two pumps you are guaranteed a flood and disaster!!! Overflows do not require pumps. They are a siphon and extremely simple. I strongly suggest you redesign your system ASAP to save yourself grief.

i wasnt asking about this i have it working fine been running for months

 

[reeftankgirl13]

Use a 4inch filter sock and most of the diatoms will get stuck in that.
For a fug u want the water to go though it slow.
Algae can't absorb nutrition as fast.
Slow water equals better filtering...for a fug

like scoop them of the SB with the filter sock or? i heard they will come right back the next day because of the scilliate (spelling?) feeding it. how do i get rid of scilliate in my tank? if diatoms arent hurtful in the fug i wont mess with it?

 

[46gReef]

To answer your original question; I would buy a larger pump and move the water through your sump faster. My $.02....