Help with Poor Flow Rate into Display

[Travis Wagner]

Hello! I’m struggling with my Red Sea Reefer 525 XL. I’m running a Vectra M2 return pump through 3/4” PVC into the stock return. My Apex Flow Meter is only reading 140 GPH at the pump’s maximum setting. I’ve tried a backup pump and another flow meter and get the same readings. I believe them to be correct because I’m not getting much flow in the display. Is my problem the reefer’s restrictive plumbing at the display? Or is the M2 pump not powerful enough to generate greater flow? Any input is greatly appreciated!

 

[ca1ore]

I’m not familiar with the plumbing on a Red Sea, but my experience with a vectra M1 led me to conclude that it performs poorly against pressure. Though it does very well on a closed loop with native 1 1/4” pipe. What was the other pump you tried?

 

[Travis Wagner]

I’m not familiar with the plumbing on a Red Sea, but my experience with a vectra M1 led me to conclude that it performs poorly against pressure. Though it does very well on a closed loop with native 1 1/4” pipe. What was the other pump you tried?

The other pump was also an M1.The Reefer plumbing is very restrictive where it enters the display tank as well.

 

[ca1ore]

Yeah, they just don’t handle back pressure well at all. Not sure if there are ways to reduce the restrictions. Otherwise may need to reconsider the pump. Something like a fluval seas would work much better.

 

[NYG140]

Red Seas plumbing also leaves alot to be desired.