First, I'm a new guy so sorry if this is a dumb question. I'm starting my first tank (36 gallon bowfront). I wanted to use an mp10 pump, but I've found starting a saltwater tank is as expensive as they say (if not more!). I think I'm going to go with a Jebao SLW-20M to get started and upgrade down the line (I figure it will be good to have the slw as a backup anyway). A Squaretrade warranty is offered for $5. I'm not concerned about the price of the warranty, but I usually don't buy them. I've heard enough stories about Jebao that made me hesitant to not add it (and make me think I should look in another direction). Any advice on their durability?
Jebao reliability?
- Thread starter Sludgysnail
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Indytraveler83
Well-Known Member
I've never had issues with the reliability of their hardware. The issue I've had is that the controllers tend to be a little buggy and like to reset to default for no reason.
Futuretotm
Well-Known Member
The thing is all equipment reliability is a mixed bag (even the expensive ones).
Only overly negative or positive experiences are shared online. Majority dont care or dont have the time.
So anyone and everyone "advice" take it with a grain of salt. there are positive jebao and negative jebao reviews.
Here's what I did: I bought two jebao return pumps.
Positive: when mine breaks down, I just switch em out. I can use the extra one from my mixing station.
Negative: cant switch em out when Im on vacation (probability of happening very low).
The extra warranty is also a good peace of mind.
Only overly negative or positive experiences are shared online. Majority dont care or dont have the time.
So anyone and everyone "advice" take it with a grain of salt. there are positive jebao and negative jebao reviews.
Here's what I did: I bought two jebao return pumps.
Positive: when mine breaks down, I just switch em out. I can use the extra one from my mixing station.
Negative: cant switch em out when Im on vacation (probability of happening very low).
The extra warranty is also a good peace of mind.
They're OK. Just keep em clean every few months. I recently broke down a tank where I've been using a Jeabo return for over 2 years. A clean every couple of months and I've never had an issue with it. Also recently ran 2 SOW-15s (with built in wireless) in a 125 where they would splash water over the sides over 60% power. As Indy said, their controllers are a pain in the butt to figure out, but once dialed in work fine. They've got a pretty average noise level, operation, and lifespan, and they move water well, plus you'll save a few hundred off the designer label. They're a solid choice for a starter pump.
chipmunkofdoom2
Always Making Something
I think the earliest failure I had with a Jebao pump was 2 years. The Jebao powerhead in my QT tank, which was bought at the same time as the pump that failed at 2 years, is over 4 years old. The last Jebao return pump I had lasted about 4 years. The current return pump I have is about 3 years old. The two powerheads currently in my tank are about a year and a half old.
The biggest thing with Jebao pumps is you have to expect shorter lifespans. A Jebao isn't going to last as long as the name brand pumps. That's why they're cheaper. A lot of folks get really bent out of shape when a Jebao fails at the 6 - 12 month mark, which can happen. But, you can buy four Jebaos for the price of a single name brand pump. If the one fails early, just buy another. You've still saved 50% off the name brand pump.
The biggest thing with Jebao pumps is you have to expect shorter lifespans. A Jebao isn't going to last as long as the name brand pumps. That's why they're cheaper. A lot of folks get really bent out of shape when a Jebao fails at the 6 - 12 month mark, which can happen. But, you can buy four Jebaos for the price of a single name brand pump. If the one fails early, just buy another. You've still saved 50% off the name brand pump.
