Overflow and pump recommendations

[Jrod381]

hi all,

I made the mistake of using a canister filter for my first tank and I am tired of it. I want to do things right and I will be purchasing a eshopps rs100 3rd generation sump. I would like to know what HOB overflow and return pump you all would recommend for my tank. I have a 75gal that cannot be drilled

Thanks in advance

 

[Ron Reefman]

I'd get a HOB overflow with a built-in flow rather than an older style one that has removable 'U' tubes and make sure it has a 'vent' or 'siphon' spout so you can connect an Aqua Lifter pump and run it every so often to insure you always have a good siphon from the DT to the sump. Get one that is rated to turn over the water in your tank at a rate you want. Example: a 750gph overflow at full capacity would turn over your tank water 10 time per hour, or a 1500gph would turn it over 20 times per hour. Then get a DC return pump that has adjustable speeds where the top speed is a bit more than your overflow (since you'll have some loss do to 3 or 4 feet of head above the pump.

 

[Jrod381]

Any recommended brands that are good quality, and also I read about issues with HOB power outages and flooding is there a way to avoid that or any HOB that prevent that?

 

[Ron Reefman]

I used a CPR brand HOB siphon overflow when I had a couple set up that way. They never failed me. But there are other good brands out there as well.

The reason for floods after a power outage is the water draining out of the HOB overflow tube and that breaks the siphon. Power comes back on and the return pump starts moving water from the sump to the DT. But with no siphon the HOB overflow doesn't work and your tank overflows. That's why you want an Aqua Lifter pump attached to the HOB overflow. Even if there is air in the overflow tube, the Aqua Lifter will suck it our as soon as the power comes on and restart the siphon. That way you avoid the over flowing DT!

 

[Jrod381]

Alright guys and gals I’m about to pull the trigger and purchase a sump, want to know what everyone recommends, I will be purchasing a aqueon pro flex model and I can’t decide between should I do Refugium or gfo media reactor? Are there any pros or cons to the two?